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Th e B i g Fo u r short telephoto has gained increased popularity over the 105-mm macro. My choice is my Nikon digital SLR in a housing together with a 60-mm macro lens (equates to 90-mm on digital) behind a flat port. My 105-mm macro lens, which converts to 150-mm, is now a little too long for fish pictures and seldom gets used. For larger subjects I use my Nikon 17-mm–35-mm zoom lens, and with digital my Nikon 12-mm–24-mm zoom. This allows me to get as close as physically possible to the subject. If I used an equivalent 90-mm, I would have to back off too far to get a composition with the entire fish in the frame. Every aspect of fish photography requires persistence and, most of all, a lot of patience. Always consider the potential of the subject, and be prepared to spend time in getting the image you want. It’s important that you have your own standard of excellence and an idea of what a good picture should be, and keep trying until your work begins to match up to it.
In conclusion The American photographer, Avedon, once wrote: ‘A portrait is a photograph of a person who knows they are being photographed’. Apply this concept underwater. You will see many stunning fish pictures that reflect this attitude. Catch the mouth open and illuminate the eye with a catch-light, and you could have a winner!