Harry Martin is leading the way in a specialized art – underwater photography. Requiring skills that far surpass point and shoot, Harry uses his artistic eye, SCUBA background and passion to tell stories and elicit emotion. We did a little probing to get to the bottom of his technique and motivation.
When did your passion for photography begin?
I loved cameras and photography ever since I was a kid. One of my earliest memories was my father’s Argus C3 (known as “The Brick”). I got a matchbox-sized camera when I was 6 ; the pictures were horrible. I thought I was a photographer, but I sure wasn’t an artist.
Did photography help you to choose journalism as a career?
I actually got my first job in TV because I knew about photography. I started as a freelance reporter and film photographer (“a stringer”). I shot, developed, and edited 16mm news film and was one of the first reporters in the country to shoot video tape for news stories. I just loved shooting and telling stories.
Did you stop being a photographer when you became a TV reporter and anchor?
I made my living in front of the camera for 40 years, but I always held on to my passion for photography. Whether it was shooting 4 by 5 sheet film on a Crown Graphic, shooting 35mm film on my old Nikon F1, or developing black and white prints in the bathroom – I loved it all.
Did you study photography in college?
No. I wanted to be a doctor. I majored in psychology and biology. I got a part-time job in radio, then TV. But throughout my career in television, there was always photography. I was able to work with some of the best shooters in the world. They taught me a ton about photography – all artists in their own right. I really owe them a lot.
Why do you call them “artists”?
They know how to tell compelling visual stories. They capture critical moments. That’s a vital part of great art. Does the shot tell a compelling story? If it does, you have a great photograph. Without a compelling story, it’s just a picture; it’s not art.
Are you still involved in news photography or is your focus now primarily fine arts photography?
I left news a few years ago, so now my focus is on fine arts photography. It’s a whole new challenge: telling a story, eliciting emotions, connecting with viewers in a special way. I’ve found a completely new vocabulary to communicate with my audience.
This is such a stunning niche of photography. How did photographing subjects underwater come about?
I loved to SCUBA dive, and I noticed as I came to the surface (at the end of the dive) that there were beautiful reflections and refractions on the underside of the water. I thought, “Why not set up an underwater studio with backdrops and lighting and beautiful models? Let’s see what we can get.”
How do you prepare for your underwater shoots? Do you have an idea in mind that you want to capture?
Yes – first I choose a model who is comfortable in the water. Then we collaborate. Their input is key. I only use models who are really enthusiastic about underwater photography, people who have a story to tell. We start out with a concept, waterproof makeup, a cool wardrobe, and a lot of trust.
Do you only shoot women?
Yes, so far. But I am always open to trying new subjects. Never say “never” when it comes to art.
How do you choose your location?
The biggest challenge is clear, clean water. Not only is it best for the models, it’s best for the shot.
Is there often a lot of “start and stop” for the models to catch their breath? If so, how do you work around that?
We shoot one shot and then come to the surface. We fine tune the pose. Take another shot, come to the surface. Direction is key, but I try not to over-direct. It doesn’t take long for us to get into a rhythm. My models are all intelligent women. They understand what makes a great shot. Sometimes the best image is when I tell them to exhibit a certain look or emotion. That’s when magic happens.
Where is the best place for readers to view your work (e.g. preferred website to list)?
I have a web site (http://www.harrymartinunderwater.com), and I have shows around the New York Metropolitan area. I am hoping to get back to West Palm Beach and Miami.
Is your work available for purchase?
Yes. I do limited editions on canvas and limited edition framed prints.
Are there any future projects you are working on that you would like to share?
I am always looking for new challenges – this winter I am planning on going to the Florida Keys, the Caribbean – any place that has clear water and creative people who love underwater art and photography.
