David Gordon has been scuba diving and photographing for over 10 years in the tropical, coral-rich waters around the world.

Each coral reef supports a diverse and complete ecosystem of life forms. Survival adaptations developed by resident plants and animals are expressed in unique body shapes, textures and colors for the purpose of specialized functions, camouflage, or the warning of predators.

David became intrigued with the unexpected brilliant colors, the dynamic interplay between the reef's inhabitants, and the quietly brutal competition for territory and food. His fascination led naturally to a desire to “photograph life as it occurs” in and around the reef. The focus and persistence required for underwater still photography have resulted in a pictorial collection of unforgettable creatures in their natural surroundings.

Through his photographs, David continues to share the intense delight of his discoveries with those who have yet to become acquainted with the vibrant colors of life in the underwater world.

Camera

David's workhorse camera has been a 35 mm film Nikonos V. This camera was introduced by Nikon in 1984 specifically for underwater photography. Added accessories provide the ability to configure the camera for wide angle, close up, or macro photography. Once underwater the camera configuration can not be changed.

Film

Primary film used is Fujifilm Velvia ISO 50/100 high-resolution color transparency.

Scanner

Film was scanned with a Nikon Coolscan 4000 ED at 4,000 pixels per inch resolution.

Going Digital

As of January 2008, the main camera is the 10.2 megapixel Nikon D200 SLR, with a Light & Motion Titan housing. The Nikon D200 (or "The Camera") captures superb underwater images saturated with rich, accurate color.

Printer

Other than cleaning up backscatter - particles of matter in the water that reflect light - the images are not retouched. They are printed just as the camera saw them.

The digital images are sampled to an aesthetically pleasing size and printed on a roll-fed Hewlett-Packard Designjet 130 Graphic Arts Printer.