As photographers, we are always after images that have a strong impact on the viewer. Of course, nice colors, good composition and a good mastering of your photographic equipment and technique are essential. But in underwater photography – like in most types of photography – you also have to tell a story. Behavior is a very good way to do so.

"How did he get that shot?" This question is the greatest compliment you could receive on a behavior shot. Here are 3 straightforward tips that I would recommend to anyone asking that question.

Say the word 'Fiji' in a room full of divers and you can watch as eyes widen and smiles begin to appear on suntanned faces.

The nation of Fiji is comprised of over three hundred beautiful islands in the South Pacific ocean. The unique topography, where towering green mountains drop straight into a crystal clear ocean fringed with coral reefs, has attracted tourists for decades. Newlyweds kick their feet up and watch sunset, surfers take shade inside racing emerald tubes and, most importantly for us, scuba divers and freedivers explore the reefs below the surface.

Competitions are a great way to find out how you measure up to all the great photography out there.  Competitions are also a good way to get you some recognition for your work by getting your name out there among other members of the underwater photography community. Having a good understanding of what makes a good image is critical to being a top notch photographer, but it is also important to remember that some aspects of the judging process are subjective.