FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEALIFE INTRODUCES COMBINED DIVE AND UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS FOR NEW DIVERS
MOORESTOWN, N.J., Jan. 24, 2001 -- For the first time, scuba classes can be combined with basic underwater photography instruction, through a program created by SeaLife, manufacturer of affordable, high-end underwater photo equipment. SeaLife is offering the "Camera Program for New Divers" through its dive dealers in the U.S. and 76 other countries.
The introduction to the basics of underwater cameras is not a separate photo course, but an optional part of the open water certification program. It will enable the newly certified diver to enjoy underwater photography with ease, comfort and safety. It is also the first step for future underwater photography courses.
The program is an addition to the open-water dive certification course and focuses on four simple steps:
1. Carrying and holding a camera
2. Approaching reefs and sea creatures
3. Buoyancy control while using a camera
4. Distance judgment and controlling the diver’s position
The student gets to use a SeaLife ReefMaster Instructor Camera at no extra charge. The 24-page course booklet "Great Pictures Made Easy – Step One: Safe Diving while handling a camera" includes:
1. Introduction to an underwater camera
2. 16 Color illustrations
3. 5-question test
4. Certificate.
5. $33.00 in redeemable coupons for cameras and accessories
The suggested cost is no extra charge to the student except for the basic scuba certification course and the "Step One" booklet, which is sold at $12.95 to participants.
This program does not change the basic diving skills as taught by any scuba course. The difference from previous teaching programs is that these same skills are also mastered while handling a camera. In the past this was impossible due to the complexity of underwater cameras.
But since the introduction of the SeaLife ReefMaster Cameras, with one-button-only control, underwater photography has become the fastest growing category in the scuba diving market. The explosion of underwater camera use has prompted dive instructors to include the basics of camera handling in the dive course.
A 12-month test program has shown that the student not only becomes comfortable in handling a camera underwater without compromising safe diving rules, but also that more than twice the divers began underwater photography during their first year following dive certification.
"The industry expects that this program will inspire more loyal divers who continue exploring the underwater world," said Robert Wollet, national sales manager for SeaLife. "And these frequent divers, who share their images with others, can influence friends and family to join the sport."
SeaLife, a division of Pioneer Research, presents the "Camera Program for New Divers" at the dive industry’s annual international convention, DEMA, in New Orleans Jan. 24-28, 2001. For further information, contact Pioneer Research, Division SeaLife, 97 Foster Rd, Moorestown NJ 08057, Phone 856 866 9191, or visit the website www.SeaLife-Cameras.com.
Contact: Bill Pearse
Andrea Gnaedinger
The Graubard Group
(212) 966-9000
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