Featured Underwater Photographer – Brett Hoelzer

One of the best ways to learn photography is to see other photographers’ work. Mozaik looks for some of the best underwater photographers in the world, and showcase their work, along with the gear they use, to help other aspiring photographers improve, learn new skills and get inspired.

This week we will feature the talented Brett Hoelzer!

About Brett

I began diving in 2013 after many years of snorkeling and free diving. I was amazed at all I had been missing at depths beyond the reach of snorkeling. I began to shoot videos with the GoPro camera and searching for unique sea life as well as interesting behavior to film. Eventually, I purchased a Canon compact camera and began building my knowledge of underwater photography.

I also continued my PADI training and eventually became a divemaster. Experience in the water is the most important tool of an underwater photographer because it allows the diver to focus on photography techniques. I find that the more I dive, the better my buoyancy gets making it easier to photograph.

I have now moved to a mirrorless Olympus camera and hope to improve the quality of my photos. I still get excited when entering the water with my camera and never become tired of the fact that I never know what amazing things I may discover below the water’s surface. I also enjoy working as a Divemaster with Deep Blue Dive Center in Aqaba, Jordan. It is fun to meet divers and underwater photographers that dive with the center.

Brett’s Gear

Canon G7X mark II compact camera
Nauticam G7XMKII housing with normal and wide angle ports
Olympus OMD-E IV mirrorless
Nauticam EM10IV With
Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 8mm F1.8 Fisheye PRO Lens with 4.5 inch dome port
PANASONIC LUMIX Professional 8-18mm Camera Lens, G LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT, F2.8-4.0 with 7 inch dome port
OLYMPUS M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro Lens With port
2-Sea&Sea YS-D2 strobes