An underwater photography and video Blue Lens workshop goes beyond the typical dive trip by focusing on improving participants’ imaging skills.

It includes training led by internationally renowned underwater photographers and filmmakers, tailor-made dive plans, personalized technical and artistic guidance, post-production courses and valuable insights on marine life, all designed to enhance your ability to capture the underwater world.

After hundreds of reconnaissance dives, we have carefully prepared each destination where we hold a workshop to ensure that you are in the right place at the right time of year, in optimal natural conditions, avoiding wasting time and focusing on the best opportunities to photograph and film marine life at its best.

The common thread of the Blue Lens workshops is to allow each participant to immediately put into practice all the secrets of underwater imaging that are revealed by the tour leader and his team.

The slightly higher cost reflects the additional benefits provided, such as one-on-one coaching by award-winning professional photographers or filmmakers, small group sizes, access to specialized post-production equipment, personalized dive plans, and additional educational elements such as marine life insights. The goal is always to be in the right spot at the right time to have the best light and natural conditions.

All Blue Lens workshop leaders and team members work 14-16 hours a day to ensure that all participants leave the workshop with the best possible photos and videos, but also with the knowledge and confidence to maintain a high standard.

Prices include:

• A multi-award-winning underwater cinematographer or photographer, supported by a team of experienced oceanographers, marine biologists, diving instructors, post-production experts, ...
• Experienced captains and drivers
• Tailor-made diving plans including all travel by zodiac, speedboat or minibus for excursions.
• Nitrox Free
• Premium, all-inclusive accommodations chosen for its comfort and convenience.
• Airport transfers
• Free Access to Blue Lens online tutorials
• Entrance fees and tips

Absolutely. Blue Lens workshops are designed to cater to a diverse range of skill levels, creating an environment where both beginners and seasoned photographers or videographers can thrive.

For beginners, the workshops provide a structured introduction to underwater imaging, covering essential skills such as manual camera settings or the artistic principles of composing an underwater image. Personalized coaching ensures that new participants feel supported without overwhelming them with advanced concepts.

For more experienced underwater photographers or cinematographers, the workshops offer advanced perspectives, specialized techniques, and the opportunity to learn directly from professionals with extensive expertise. Customized dive plans and small group sizes mean that more experienced participants will not feel held back, as they can progress at their own pace and tackle more complex challenges

Blue Lens ensures that everyone, whether beginner or professional, receives focused attention and the appropriate level of instruction. This balanced approach promotes a collaborative and inspiring learning experience for all participants.

The workshops are led by industry-renowned professionals, including multi-award-winning underwater cinematographer Olivier Bourgeois, alongside specialists such as oceanographer Emma Pettersson, underwater image post-production specialist Franck Meyer and diving instructor Wolfgang Klapper.

Each workshop is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, with small dive teams of 4 (sometimes even less) to ensure personalized attention and an immersive learning experience.

Yes, absolutely. Non-photographers or videographers are welcome, provided that:

1. They are divers and meet the level requirements for the workshops (Advanced Open Water or equivalent and more than 50 logged dives)
2. They understand that the structure and pricing of the workshops are tailored to the specific needs of underwater photographers and videographers. This includes extended dive times and optimized schedules to capture the perfect images, which may differ from a standard dive itinerary.

That said, Blue Lens workshops take participants to extraordinary locations that are just as fascinating for non-photographers/videographers.

Important : the non-photographer/videographer will be considered as a participant, so that the workshop never exceeds the maximum number of participants initially planned.

Blue Lens workshops are multilingual and adapt to the diversity of participants. Tour leaders and their team are fluent in several languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Swedish, ensuring that all participants feel comfortable throughout the experience.

Each Blue Lens workshop combines elements of photography and videography, giving participants the opportunity to focus on one or explore both disciplines, depending on their interests and skill levels. These workshops are not structured like traditional courses with fixed theoretical blocks. Instead, they are immersive experiences designed to improve your skills through practice and real-world application.

The group leader and his team are always available to provide one-on-one feedback, answer questions and share personalized tips on capturing marine life, helping with camera settings, framing shots or optimizing diving skills. This hands-on approach ensures that participants gain invaluable insights and practical knowledge in a way that surpasses many standalone underwater photography or videography courses.

Yes, personalized coaching is a cornerstone of the Blue Lens experience. With small groups and a team of experts at their side, each participant receives tailored advice and guidance to improve their skills effectively.

The primary focus of the Tour Leader and their team is to support participants in achieving their best underwater shots. While they may occasionally demonstrate techniques through their own work, the priority is always on coaching and assisting the participants.

However, and this will be particularly valuable for participants, the prospect of constantly looking 'over the shoulder' of a professional in action will also provide an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the nuances of underwater imagery and draw inspiration from it.

Knowledge and understanding of marine life is central to Blue Lens workshops. The team's oceanographers, or marine biologists, provide crucial information about species behavior and habitats, helping participants anticipate animal movements and habits so they can capture authentic, breathtaking underwater moments.

Not all workshops include post-production training. However, when offered, they include a comprehensive curriculum, access to high-performance laptops during class, and a one-year subscription to Adobe post-production software to continue your journey beyond the workshop.

So, if you want to polish your underwater image like a pro, master editing, photo retouching or even color grading, carefully browse the Blue Lens workshops and pick one that includes the post-production specialty.

No, international flights are not included. Blue Lens workshop participants come from all over the world, so it is more beneficial for each participant to book their own flights to the workshop location at their convenience. However, our team can provide you with recommendations and tips to help you find the best options.

Yes, airport transfers to and from the designated workshop accommodation are always included in the package to ensure a smooth arrival and departure experience.

Blue Lens workshops partner with carefully selected accommodations, usually 4 stars or equivalent, that meet the needs of both divers (with good bedding) and photographers/videographers (an office space to set up/take down/prepare camera gears). These hotels offer comfort, convenience and facilities tailored to workshop participants.

Yes, all workshops include full board, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks (very important between dives). Meals are designed to meet the divers' energy needs while accommodating a variety of dietary preferences.

Absolutely. We take great care to ensure that the food offered is of good quality, nutritious and plentiful to meet the needs of active divers. Options for vegetarians, gluten-free diets and other special dietary needs are also available.

Yes, the program is carefully planned to allow participants to enjoy their meal without feeling rushed. We know that good food is very important to participants when it comes to an underwater photo and video workshop. Meals are also a great opportunity to bond with other participants and share experiences. There is nothing better than being able to sit at a table with the camera after a day in the water, chat with other divers and enjoy a fantastic dinner.

Breakfast or lunch can sometimes depend on the daily program and excursions organized as part of the workshop. Most days we have time to sit in the restaurant, others we enjoy snacks that have been specially prepared for our small group.

Participants can choose between single or double rooms. If you select a double room, rest assured that we pair you with another participant of the same gender for your comfort. To ensure a smooth and welcoming experience, Blue Lens organizes a one-hour webinar approximately one month before each workshop. During this session:

• Participants can meet each other virtually for the first time.
• The Tour Leader provides detailed information about the workshop’s structure and daily schedule.

It’s a perfect opportunity for all the participants to ask questions, clarify logistics, and start building connections within the group.

This approach ensures that you feel comfortable and well-prepared, both with your accommodations and the overall workshop experience.

Yes, extensions are possible. Participants wishing to extend their stay can do so when filling out the booking form on our website or by contacting our team directly by email. We will help you to book additional accommodations, so you can benefit from special rates. If desired, we can also provide recommendations for other local dives or activities.

Yes, participants must bring their own camera. However, if you do not own a camera, rental options may be available upon prior request at the time of booking. Regarding diving equipment, it is up to you, you can come with your own or rent all or part of it on site at the workshop location (the price list is generally indicated on the website page dedicated to the workshop you have chosen).

We don’t discriminate. Our workshops are designed to work with a wide range of cameras, from DSLRs and mirrorless systems to compact and action cameras.

The key is to bring a setup that you’re comfortable with and that matches the type of underwater images you want to focus on. Our tour leader will help you maximize the potential of your gear.

Yes, a laptop is recommended if you want to be able to transfer the raw/footage you captured during the day, but it is not mandatory.

For workshops that include the post-production specialty, participants follow the training directly on the powerful computers of the Blue Lens Studio (located on the workshop site). However, bringing your own laptop allows you to apply what you have learned directly into your usual workflow.

Yes, all participants must hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification (or equivalent) and have logged at least 50 dives to ensure they have the skills necessary to dive safely and effectively in the workshop environment. We remind here that each diver must always dive within the framework of his training, certification, experience, comfort and abilities.

Yes and no.

Yes because Workshops include tips to refine skills such as buoyancy control, movement, and breathing techniques, ensuring participants are better equipped for stable and precise shots underwater.
No, because the workshops are not designed with theoretical blocks to train divers and provide them with a diving certification. Participants must already have the basics required to join the workshops (AWO or equivalent + 50 dives logged).

If you haven't dived for a long time, we recommend coming 1 or 2 days before the workshop starts to do a few refresher dives so that you feel completely comfortable during the workshop.

You can book a Blue Lens workshop directly through our website. Simply select the desired workshop, fill out the booking form and within 24 hours an email confirming your seat will be sent to you. It's that simple!

Yes, a deposit is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance must be paid within the specified timeframe, typically 60 days prior to the workshop start date.

We accept major credit cards and bank transfers. All transactions are processed through secure payment gateways to ensure your personal and financial information is protected. Specific payment options will be detailed during the booking process.

Cancellations must be submitted in writing. Refunds depend on the timing of the cancellation:

• More than 60 days before the workshop: Full refund minus the non-refundable deposit.
• Less than 60 days before the workshop: No refunds unless the spot is filled by another participant, minus a processing fee.
• No-shows: Participants who fail to attend without prior notice are not eligible for a refund.
• In exceptional cases (e.g., illness or emergencies), partial refunds or rescheduling may be considered with supporting documentation.

If the workshop is canceled due to low participation (minimum not met), a full refund (including your deposit) will be issued no later than 45 days before the start date.

All refunds will be processed within 14 days of confirmation, subject to any applicable fees or exchange rates.

For your peace of mind, we recommend travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.

Yes, we offer discounts for group bookings, for those with a promotional code provided by one of our partners and for participants returning for another Blue Lens workshop. Contact us for more details on these offers.

Yes, transfers are possible under specific conditions. Transfers to another workshop are subject to availability and must be requested at least 30 days before the workshop start date. Transfers to another participant must also be approved in advance and may require an additional processing fe

Yes and no. Blue Lens workshops, while friendly and relaxed, are not exactly a walk in the park. However, our workshops are structured to balance immersive experiences with flexibility. Daily programs often include 2-3 dives with extended dive time to increase opportunities to capture marine life, as well as activities throughout the day (personalized coaching, marine life sessions, post-production classes, etc.).

As a participant, and especially as a diver, you have the freedom to choose which activities you want to participate in each day, if you want to come on a diving excursion or not. So if you prefer to take a day or half-day to relax and recharge, you can do so without any pressure. Our workshops are designed to be both enriching and adaptable to your personal pace.

Participants must be in good general health and meet standard medical requirements for scuba diving. A valid medical certificate dated within the last 12 months is required to participate in Blue Lens workshops and will be requested from each participant upon arrival at the workshop venue.

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions during the booking process. Our team will do its best to accommodate your needs and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the workshop.

Travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations, delays or medical emergencies during your trip. If you do not have a designated travel insurance, our team will be happy to recommend one for you.

Yes, diving insurance is mandatory to ensure coverage in case of any diving-related incidents. If you don't have diving insurance yet, our team will be happy to recommend reputable providers that offer comprehensive insurance plans.

Workshop locations are selected with safety in mind, ensuring reasonable access to emergency services, including hyperbaric chambers where available. While some locations may have varying distances to medical facilities, our team is trained in emergency response and first aid to manage situations effectively until professional medical help can be reached. Participant safety remains our highest priority.