I went on a business trip today, to the International Underwater Photography Conference in Duluth, Minnesota. After breakfast (no freeze-dried shrimp this time, a great disappointment), I flew over to the conference center in Duluth. It was a huge place, and if I hadn’t had a map, I never would have found the person I was looking for – David Doubilet.
I have followed Mr. Doubilet’s blog for years, and admire his skill, especially in regards to photographing sharks. Sharks are fascinating creatures, aren’t they? They’re like the cavemen of the sea. Anyway, I found my way to Mr. Doubilet’s booth, where he was giving a lecture on underwater lighting technique. He also showed us the type of camera he used. Unfortunately, he was outside my bowl, and I was inside, and I never got to hear a word he said. I also had had hopes of meeting this fine man and maybe even getting his autograph on a photo I have of his, of a group of killer whales. It’s a gorgeous picture. But he didn’t even notice me. I think he’s rather stuck up, and he’s no longer my hero.
I went home after a few
hours. The conference was a letdown in general, as I was unable to meet any one, and no one took the slightest notice of me. I think I’ll stay away from such gatherings from now on.

Click the bubbles to visit David Doubilet's webiste and see some amazing photos. (They're still amazing photos, even if Mr. Doubilet isn't my hero any more.