Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Bauer.
Hi Scott, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always been intrigued by aquatic life in both the ocean as well as our local springs here in Texas. What I enjoy most is sharing photos of all of the crystal clear natural springs that exist in the Texas Hill Country. A lot of these places are on private property and most people don’t know they exist.
Another lesser-known feature in Texas that I enjoy sharing with people are photos of the flower gardens of banks national marine sanctuary. This is a beautiful and pristine coral reef 110 miles off of the coast of Galveston, TX. Most people that aren’t into diving don’t know that there are coral reefs in Texas, especially ones that are this healthy. I always find it satisfying to share how lucky we are to have this beautiful ecosystem that you would usually travel a great distance to see, right here in our own backyard.
Underwater photography started for me when I got certified to scuba dive in 2016. I started with a GoPro but as my obsession grew, that GoPro turned into one camera system after another that got bigger and more advanced each time.
This journey has started with still photos but has since turned into a process of storytelling through video. This is where you can follow along on my YouTube channel, “Scott Bauer Below” as I explore new underwater places.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest challenge with learning underwater photography is not only the technical knowledge of how to operate a camera but the ability to maintain “neutral buoyancy” as well as efficiently moving around underwater. This takes a lot of practice and involves a lot of what we call “task loading” where you are focusing on many things at one time.
This requires focusing on your breathing (which affects your buoyancy) as you are trying to maneuver yourself to the right position in order to get the composition you had in mind and this all happens while you are thinking about what shutter speed/fstop/ISO your camera needs to be set on. There is quite a lot happening all at once. Not to mention, when photographing a subject that involves wildlife, things get even more complicated!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Although I know of a few really good underwater photographers in Texas, there still aren’t too many. One thing that I am proud of is the uniqueness of this niche in my region and how satisfying it is to share this passion with others.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My friends and family as well as fellow divers have always been my biggest supporters. Positive reactions from my local dive community have always been my biggest motivation and I love the warmth that comes from that group of people.
On the other hand, criticism that is constructive can be just as helpful when it comes to developing your skills as an artist. I have always appreciated those close to me that are not afraid to tell you when something that you have done could have been better.
Contact Info:
- Website: Scottbauerphotography.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/scottbauerbelow
- Youtube: www.YouTube.com/c/divelocker79
- Other: www.scottbauerphotography.art
