The award-winning Anse Chastanet and Scuba St. Lucia are co-hosting specialty underwater photography weeks for divers to learn how to fine-tune their underwater photography skills through a series of seminars and dives. “There’s no better place for divers to learn more about the art of underwater photography,” says Karolin Troubetzkoy, Executive Director of Marketing and Operations at Anse Chastanet, a Travelife Gold-certified resort.

“World-class diving is right off the shores here at our location in St.

Lucia,” said Troubetzkoy. “Divers can explore the ecologically rich Soufrière Marine Management Area Marine Park, one of the most protected sites in the Caribbean, with ease. It’s truly an excellent opportunity not to be missed.”

Additionally, while honing their skills, divers will enjoy a stay at the high-end Anse Chastanet property, described as one of the best in the Caribbean, with enchanting views of the UNESCO-designated twin Piton volcanic mountains. Both Anse Chastanet and the PADI Green Star-awarded Scuba St.

Lucia adhere to sustainable, no-impact policies, to keep the pristine waters clean for generations of divers.

Divers will have the opportunity to explore coral reefs filled with tropical fish and macro life as they develop their skills in ambient light use, model photography, macro photography, animal portraits and general composition.

“Regardless of a diver’s previous experience with photography, they can learn something new and valuable from one of these week-long workshops,” notes Troubetzkoy.

The itinerary includes two morning dives in and around dive sites such as the Pinnacles and Superman’s Flight.

These sessions are followed by afternoon seminars led by Bernd Rac, a professional underwater photographer and videographer for more than two decades. He will discuss reviewing photographs, editing and preparing for the next day’s dive with participants.

A photography contest will be held throughout the week and prizes awarded during the closing ceremony. Social functions for divers, including cocktail parties and dinners are arranged; for non-diving spouses or partners along for the trip, there are numerous entertainment options, ranging from tours to spa visits.

Divers have the choice of using their own underwater camera set-up, or a SeaLife DC2000, which is available to participants.

These ultra-fast cameras with eight shooting modes are available for purchase at a special rate available only to program participants, starting at US $600.

The Underwater Photography Week program starts at US,169 per person and packages are available for the following remaining dates this year: August 10-17; October 5-12 and December 7-14.

A certified diving card is required to participate.

Anse Chastanet, www.ansechastanet.com; Scuba St. Lucia, scuba@ansechastanet.com