And So It Begins...

A new business name, a new logo a new website and blog...and an expanded concept all aimed at serving the needs of underwater photography enthusiasts in Roatan, Honduras.

Let me give you a little background...I first visited Roatan in the fall of 2000 when I was backpacking through Central America. I stopped off for what I believed would be a week...and I stayed five (as the story so often goes on this island). A couple of months later I came back to do my Divemaster and Instructor course. Before you know I was working as an Instructor and happily ensconced in the island lifestyle. I hung around for 3 years and racked up a couple of thousand dives before wondering what else was out there in our big blue planet. 

Francesca Diaco, Owner & Professional Photographer

Francesca Diaco, Owner & Professional Photographer

So off I went...for 10 years...to travel, work and dive my way through loads of awesome places...including Thailand, Indonesia, and Australia and more. I loved seeing new places, dive sites, and marine creatures and I soaked up every experience. In 2005 I picked up an underwater camera and I was hooked. After shooting with a compact camera for a year I quickly upgraded to a DSLR...and soon after my diving career evolved into being a full time underwater photographer. I worked as a photo pro, taught underwater photography and was shooting constantly. Then I started writing and publishing in magazines. All up I spent 8 years and thousands of dives in Southeast Asia and Australia working as a photographer. But in the back of my mind I always thought about Roatan.

Overheat Reef, Roatan

Overheat Reef, Roatan

In 2014, I went back to Roatan for a visit and was hooked once again. Soon after that 2 week visit, I went back for 3 months...and finally moved back. This beautiful little island...and its community, diving culture and lifestyle...is like no place I've ever been (and I have been to quite a few). And the reef and the underwater photography opportunities are just amazing!! Since December, I have have been in Roatan working as an independent underwater photographer shooting, writing, publishing...but mainly focusing on teaching underwater photography which is a true passion of mine. I just love helping people develop their talent and love of underwater photography.  

So then...why the new business name, logo, etc? After spending a year in Roatan, I saw the need to develop a dedicated creative space and resource for underwater photographers.  By offering personalized training programs and a full range of professional services, the needs of underwater photographers of all levels can better be served. Whether you are interested in improving your skills, an underwater photo session, camera rentals, or need help planning a dive trip to Roatan...there's something for you. 

I am passionate about promoting Roatan as an underwater photography destination. Its calm, clear blue waters make Roatan one of the best places to learn underwater photography, hone your skills, tackle a new technique or experiment with new gear. Combine that with its topside charm and easy island lifestyle and you have the recipe for the perfect dive and photography vacation!

Follow the blog to read about the latest news and underwater photography highlights from Roatan such as workshop dates, travel deals, and photo competitions...and what is being spotted underwater.  Regular features will also include great underwater photography tips, equipment advice and behind-the-shot posts and highlight the work of photographers who work and train with us.  Hope to see you real soon!!   - Francesca