The Underwater Podcast The Underwater Podcast

In episode #58 host Brett Stanley chats with Christina Karliczek Skoglund, an underwater wildlife and feature film cinematographer.
Christina grew up on the coast of Sweden, dreaming of shipwrecks, but it was a trip to New Zealand and Australia as a teenager that really gave her a taste for the underwater world of film.
They talk about her work with the BBC and National Geographic, and how she was massively inspired by her Aunt, Jutta Hosel Waters - one of the first women to officially work in Antarctica out of Australia in 1976.
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Episode Summary
In this episode, host Brett Stanley interviews Christina Karliczek Skoglund, an accomplished underwater cinematographer and director, to delve into the intricate challenges and experiences she has faced in her career. Christina shares the difficulties of filming marine life, specifically sharks, which involve both technological hurdles like unpredictable shark hatching and environmental challenges like algae growth and adverse weather conditions. Her work requires a high level of adaptability and flexibility, as the unpredictable nature of wildlife filming demands readiness for any situation.
Christina discusses her transition to directing, motivated in part by the practical need to have more control over her schedule during her pregnancy. Currently, she is engaged in natural history shows and is preparing for a new personal project, alongside her work in underwater cinematography for feature films.
The conversation also touches on the decision-making process during shoots, emphasizing the importance of experience and situational assessment in determining whether to continue or halt a shoot due to unfavorable conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
Throughout the episode, Christina and Brett explore the significance of community, collaboration, and mutual inspiration within the underwater cinematography field. They reflect on the value of listening and learning from other creators, highlighting the interconnected and supportive nature of the community.
Christina's insights provide a profound understanding of the dedication, adaptability, and passion required in the specialized field of underwater cinematography, shedding light on both the technical and creative aspects of capturing the captivating world beneath the waves.
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In episode #57 host Brett Stanley chats with French underwater portrait photographer Alison Bounce.


Growing up far from the ocean in the middle of France, Alison had a life long fear of water which she hoped to overcome by moving to the coastal city of Nice and starting her love affair with underwater photography.


Since then she’s built her business around her gorgeous prints, working on removing the colour blue from her palette, and literally writing the book on underwater portraiture. 


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Episode Summary
In this episode, acclaimed underwater photographer Alison Bounce shares her remarkable journey in the world of aquatic imagery. The conversation delves into her experiences, ranging from the technical aspects of underwater photography to the emotional depth encountered during shoots.
Alison recounts a perilous incident during a shoot in Australia where she found herself in a life-threatening situation. Her poignant description of the harrowing moment, intertwined with the humorous realization that her client inadvertently became her savior, adds a layer of suspense and genuine human connection.
The episode takes an emotional turn as Alison narrates a transformative shoot with Magali, a cancer survivor. Magali's strength and vulnerability shine through as Alison captures her underwater, showcasing the therapeutic power of photography in overcoming life's challenges. The subsequent exhibition featuring these poignant images becomes a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Listeners are offered a glimpse into the intricacies of Alison's artistic process, from handling technical equipment to the challenges of selecting the perfect image to convey a message. The conversation also touches on Alison's foray into videography, exploring the potential to expand her business and provide clients with a more immersive experience.
Alison concludes by sharing her upcoming project—an exhibition intertwining mythology, art, and ecology, aimed at raising awareness about the critical state of the environment. This fusion of visual storytelling and advocacy reflects Alison's commitment to using her art to inspire change.
Tune in to this episode for a captivating exploration of the artistry, challenges, and profound human connections within the realm of underwater photography. Alison's anecdotes serve as a powerful reminder of the impact visual storytelling can have on both the artist and the subjects immortalized beneath the waves.
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In episode #56 host Brett Stanley chats with John Ellerbrock - owner and President of Gates Underwater Housings. 
Gates have been a staple in the world of underwater imaging since the late 60’s when Elwyn Gates started building the first products in his garage, and created a thriving business. John talks about the history of Gates, how he got involved, and what it takes to build camera housings for some of the worlds best cameras.
We discuss the manufacturing process, where Gates housings are being used, and where he sees the industry going in the future.
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In episode #55 host Brett Stanley chats with Underwater Camera Operator and Photographer Jenny Baumert. 


Jenny fell in love with underwater photography at the Brooks Institute in California, but quickly moved in to cinematography. She’s worked on commercials and music videos, and just finished up shooting the title sequence for Netflix’s Merpeople docuseries. 

They talk about shooting 1000 frames per second underwater on the phantom high speed camera, how she made the move from camera tech to operator, and how drinking Timothy Leary’s ashes with Susan Sarandon totally changed her visual style.

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In episode #54 host Brett Stanley chats with freedive photographer Tony Myshlyaev, better known as Tones Of Blue.
They talk about his journey from learning to scuba dive in Vancouver, Canada, to his love affair with the warm tropical waters of Thailand. 
Tony shares some of his techniques for shooting people in open water, his favourite spots to dive, and how the pandemic gave him a massive creative push.
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In episode #53 host Brett Stanley chats with freedive champion, film maker, and underwater performer Julie Gautier.
Julie’s films are a beautifully visual insight into not just the mind of a freediver, but also into the powerful messages that water can convey through imagery and dance. She talks about her journey from freediver to film maker, and we chat about some of the amazing locations she’s been diving - including swimming with sleeping Sperm Whales. 
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