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A Reunion of Masters, Methods, and Muck-Diving Magic

In January 2027, Lembeh Resort will host the renowned Capturing Critters in Lembeh (CCiL) underwater photography workshop—and this 13th edition carries a special sense of homecoming. After a 15-year hiatus, acclaimed underwater photographer Marty Snyderman returns to the black-sand slopes of the Lembeh Strait, reuniting with longtime collaborator James Emery to lead one of the longest-running and most widely respected macro photography workshops in the world.

Together, Marty and James represent a rare fusion of photographic philosophy and cutting-edge innovation. Marty brings a timeless approach rooted in animal behavior, composition, and universal photographic principles. His teaching emphasizes understanding the subject first—how a mimic octopus hunts, how a hairy frogfish breathes—and using that knowledge to anticipate moments rather than chase them.

As former in-house photo pro at Lembeh Resort, James brings an intimate knowledge of the Lembeh Strait and complements Marty’s approach with expertise in modern imaging systems. Through his work with Backscatter, he helps photographers harness the latest technologies and techniques. The result is a workshop where theory meets technology, and craft meets innovation.
 

CCiL 2027 photo pros James Emery (left) and Marty Snyderman

The Lembeh Strait: The World’s Critter Capital

Over the past 15 years, Lembeh has grown into a global epicenter of macro biodiversity and photographic discovery. Here, visitors can enjoy close encounters with unique critters and rare photo opportunities in a relaxed, non-challenging environment; this makes the Lembeh Strait the perfect location for photographers of all skill levels.

This is precisely what defines the CCiL experience. Participants benefit not only from daily guided dives in one of the world’s richest macro environments, but also from in-depth critiques, seminars, and one-on-one mentorship. Whether refining snoot lighting techniques, mastering blackwater composition, or simply learning to slow down and observe, photographers leave with skills that can enrich their portfolio and deepen their passion for diving.
 

What to Expect at CCiL 2027

CCiL 2027 will run from January 11th–18th, 2027, at Lembeh Resort (pre- and post-workshop extensions are also available). Course content will include daily seminars led by Marty and James, with additional support from Lembeh Resort’s own photo pro and experienced team. Attendees will learn advanced techniques, post-processing, and creative storytelling, while also enjoying incredible, critter-rich diving across Lembeh’s world-famous muck sites and reefs, all while staying in a luxurious, boutique-style dive resort.

For more information and to book your place at CCiL 2027, visit the Lembeh Resort website.