Chuck Nicklin is the type of man that legends are made of. A true pioneer of diving, his life is abundant in history and stories of the deep. Chuck is also known for his incredible underwater videography. As Chuck is a Light & Motion user, I thought it was time to talk to him about some of his history as it relates to UW videography. On first impression, Chuck gives you the immediate sense that he is a man of great experience, strength, knowledge and at the same time kindness.

Armed with a pen, paper and a huge interest, I launched into a series of questions with Chuck which he graciously answered.

Chuck what year did you begin diving?
I began free diving in 1947 and SCUBA diving in 1953.

What is your history with videographers Bob Talbott, Howard Hall and Marty Snyderman.
When Bob Talbott was a teenager he came to San Diego to film Grey whales. I encouraged and helped him with information on that project as well as a number of other times.

Howard and Marty both worked at my dive shop, The Diving Locker. They were employees and instructors. They saw my life style and were encouraged to become professionals. They learned about photography and what it takes to be successful. They feel that I pointed them in the right direction.

What sets them apart from others?
They decided what they wanted to do and went all out. Many people want their hobby to become their vocation, but it takes drive and determination to actually do it.

Is there anyone else, in your opinion, that stands out in the field of UW photography/videography?
My son, Flip Nicklin has worked for National Geographic for more than 20 years now. He is the most published photographer of whales and large animals.

What inspires you the most about UW photography/videography?
I wanted to be able to share the beauty and excitement that many people will never see and therefore make them aware of the importance of protecting that environment.

What are some of your favorite areas of the world to shoot? And your favorite dive spot?
My favorite dive spot is Papua New Guinea , I’ve been there 15 times. It has a large variety of life and is dived less than most areas.

The best spot to shoot is Lama Shoals in the Witu Island group. It’s an area that comes out of the deep to about 40 feet from the surface. It’s not near the island so the water is usually blue. I’ve filmed everything from ¼ inch white sea horses to huge schools of Jacks, tuna’s and sharks.

What is the progression of video cameras you’ve used?
My first video system was a JVC 8mm video camera that was a small camera with a separate recording deck. Since then I have used several 8mm, a bunch of Hi-8, Beta Cam, Sony broadcast digitals, a number of prosumer digitals, most everything that has come along.

What are the benefits of using HD in an underwater application?
Hi def is the future. The image resolution is far superior; the 16 x 9 format is becoming standard.

What are the qualities you value the most in an underwater housing?
Ease of use, dependability, size, and having all the capabilities of camera controls.

How important are lights in underwater video?
Lights are a necessary to make professional video. I seldom shoot without out lighting and with the low light HD cameras, the lights are even more important.

What do you think about Sony’s FX1 and smaller version HC1 HD camcorders?
I think Sony is way ahead in the video camera field because of their new HD cameras. The FX1
is the most professional but some of its advantages are not important underwater. Although the HC1 does not have as much low light capability, the new single chip compares well with the 3 chips of the FX1. If there is a very low light level, you should not be shooting with out light any way. For the traveling cinematographer, the weight and size of the system becomes more important all the time because of increasing restrictions on baggage.

Do you have any advice to offer aspiring videographers?
My first advice is always "Hold the camera still" When they ask how to become a better shooter I always say you have to shoot. The best tennis players hit the most balls even when not in tournament.

What’s next for you Chuck?
We have lots of plans in the works…Mantas in Okinawa and a tour of Japan, Humpback whales in Tonga and who knows what I will come up with in the next month or so. (Light & Motion will make the specific information available when we receive it. Or check out Chuck’s site at www.chucknicklin.com.)

Thanks…and happy diving Chuck!