Ambassador of the Month – John Roney

In this new section in our blog, we will feature our amazing Mozaik ambassadors so that you can get to know them better and learn about their fascinating lives.

The ambassador of this month is John Roney!

John, tell us a bit about how you became a diver and UW photographer?

As someone who grew up on Vancouver Island, I have always been drawn to the ocean and shortly after obtaining my Bachelor of Motion Picture Arts from Capilano University, I returned to my hometown on the island and took my first open water course.

As I began developing my diving skills, I also pursued my career as a film editor working primarily on documentary short films. Combining my two passions was only natural. I have always been a filmmaker first and foremost, and as an editor, I love working with dynamic footage. Underwater videography, aside from involving incredible subject matter, also provides the opportunity for such dynamic shots and camera movements that would be impossible on land. I feel so lucky to be able to film underwater, and share the amazing and often lesser known marine life of British Columbia’s waters.

What’s your most memorable dive?

So many dives are unforgettable, but one that comes to mind in particular was a drift dive in Komodo National Park in 2018. My best friend and I were staying on a liveaboard, diving multiple times a day in Indonesia’s stunning waters and experiencing the beautiful corals and marine life – both large and macro. For one of our last dives, we rode a strong current, alongside countless massive manta rays. While we had already had several dives with manta rays by that point, there was something extra special about speeding alongside the peaceful giants at the mercy of the current.

Which gear do you currently use?

My current set up is a Panasonic Lumix GH5 with Aquatica’s AGH5 housing. I chose the Aquatica housing as it’s rugged, easy to maintain and has large enough buttons for us coldwater divers wearing 5mm neoprene gloves. I have several Panasonic lenses and frequently shoot underwater with my 12-60mm and 30mm macro lenses. For lighting, I have dual Kraken Sports lights, along with a set of Light & Motion lights.

How can we follow your work and get in touch?

You can follow me on social media under MahoneyDives:

instagram.com/mahoneydives youtube.com/mahoneydives facebook.com/mahoneydives

As a fun fact, Mahoney has been my nickname for years, and when I started my dive accounts, I chose to use my nickname on a whim. I am also developing an underwater documentary highlighting the lesser-known marine life of Vancouver Island’s waters entitled ‘Beneath the Emerald Sea’. You can check out the teaser on my website: mahoneydives.com

Your Message to the World

My message to the world is to learn as much as you can about our incredible ocean. There is so much beauty beneath the sea and it needs protecting. Find out what you can do in your region to help out! And don’t forget to enjoy all of its beauty, big and small.