Self-directed adventurer, pilot, oceanic explorer and photographer Peter Stern discovered his love for underwater photography while snorkeling in dangerous waters off the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica in 2022. Hoping to pursue this passion in safer waters, he later discovered the pristine coral reefs of Cuba, and has returned to make underwater photography while snorkeling there four times. Although he received his scuba certification in Cuba in 2023. Stern prefers to make his photographs while snorkeling. In these images he uses the natural light available at shallower depths than where most tank diving is done. He is able to photograph beyond the areas where scuba diving groups usually dive. Similar to making his aerial photography, Stern “hovers” at the surface while studying the reefs below and looking for compositions. He then dives on his own breath to take the photographs before returning to the surface. The coral reefs of southern Cuba are easily accessible and pristine in comparison to many in the Western Hemisphere. The Caribbean Sea is generally tranquil and free of most dangers such as sharks. Stern presents images containing referential information, such as the health and varieties of the corals. But, as with his aerial photographs, he seeks out aesthetically pleasing compositions of color, light, form and texture which serve to engage and inspire the viewer.
