Articles

“Turtle Hug”: Sometimes Cayman’s marine life wants to come see what you’re up to
 

Working for a dive operation means you need to be a Jack (or Jill) of all trades. Certified instructor? Check. Boat engine repair expert? Check. Occasional relationship counselor? Check.

Working as the photo pro for Cayman Turtle Divers in Grand Cayman, it’s amazing that photographer Chase Darnell has time to do all of this and more—also serving as one of DPG’s go-to contributors for camera reviews and a Fantasea Artist. Chase’s versatility in the dive industry extends to his photography inclinations. You’re just as likely to find him focused on a macro critter with a pro DSLR setup as playing with the latest 4K video capabilities of a mirrorless camera in the barrel of a wave. 

Chase’s images have appeared countless times on DPG, as well is in various print publications. His classic Cayman images have won multiple awards including honors from the Underwater Competition’s DEEP Indonesia. Chase has a simple philosophy we can all take heed of: “More hours in the water = more experiences.”
 

“Sunrise Stingray”: Morning light is always such a dreamy scene. Spending a sunrise before the world wakes up at Stingray Sandbar always produces some beautiful scenes
 

“Shimmer”: A healthy stand of elkhorn coral on a sunny day
 

 “Golden Daze”: All time sunset session
 

“The Race”: Behind the wave is just as unreal of a show as in front of it
 

“Keeping It Clean”: Green sea turtles have beautiful shells, with the colors highlighted from ample sun above
 

“Turtle Texture”: Converting to black and white reveals the amazing texture of a hawksbill
 

“Twin Spots”: Two eagle rays have a meaningful interaction as they cruise the blue
 

“Silver Sensation”: A wall of silversides is in constant motion as predators make passes for a chance at a meal. It’s a true display of safety and resilience in numbers
 

“Interaction”: Being able to interact with these animals makes all the difference in an encounter. On one awesome dive, this shark spent 40 minutes making slow, calm passes by all the divers
 

“Crystal Ray”: The light traveling through the crystal clear water of Grand Cayman is amazing
 

Chase interacts with a southern stingray at Grand Cayman’s Stingray City
 

Check out more of Chase’s sweet pics on his Facebook or Instagram pages. Visiting Grand Cayman? Chase offers one-on-one underwater photo lessons and private Stingray City photo shoots through Cayman Turtle Divers.