Capturing the Moment

  Nudibranchs are a macro photographer's dream animal. They move slowly and boast some of the most vibrant colors and patterns of any underwater wildlife. Yet with all of their brightness it is still quite easy to miss them thanks to all the other colors in the reef. Our eyes are trained to look for movement so we glance right past the hiding octopus, the camouflaged scorpionfish, and even the ostentatious nudibranch....but not on this dive. Baby frogfish number one was tucked down into the rock, peering up at his reflection in the lens as I got in close for this shot on the left. Heidi found another wedged in amongst coral polyps. These juveniles will someday grow into volleyball size adults one day if they can avoid all the dangers on the reef. Now this guy was a real tough find. Once again master spotter Heidi pointed him out to me. I initially saw the fin but only the fin. I was amazed when I focused on the entire area and realized it was all one big scorpionfish! I h...

Harlequin Shrimp lined up White Tip Reef Shark  On this dive we came across big and small favorites and a few surprises as well. My favorite pair of Harlequin Shrimp haven't moved far. Sometimes they stay in the same place for months as these two have. On the other hand a white tip reef shark was something new to this site. At a couple of places in Molokini I have seen white tips stay put for months as well. 'Peek-a-boo'. Moray eel just hiding Red Reef Lobster  Checking the crevices for nudibranchs always offers some secret treasures for an underwater biologist. And it is a great way to get surprised by many kinds of moray eels. They are almost always docile knowing that they are well protected if only their head and mouth are exposed. However sometimes seeing their reflection in my camera can bring out the curiosity in them and they will come in for a closer look. I have had them bump right into my camera before. Sphinx Phyllidia Two Oval Butterfly...