Martin is a certified cave diver, rebreather, and advanced trimix diver, as well as a professional underwater photographer and journalist.
From a young age, Martin had a fascination with being in the water. When he was 15, he became a certified scuba diver along with his father; a passion for diving clearly ran in the family. After years of diving, one day Martin decided to take his father’s underwater camera along to kill time during his decompression stops, a decision which altered his life forever.
That day, a whole new perspective of the underwater world opened up for him. From then on, Martin jumped at the opportunity to learn as much as he could about underwater photography improving his skills with each dive. In 2005, he became a fully professional underwater photographer and journalist for the German magazine UNTERWASSER.
Martin uses his experience as a technical diver to explore and photograph locations very few have laid eyes on including wrecks, tunnels, and caves. Wide-angle photography is his favorite discipline as it provides the flexibility and space to showcase the unique relationships between the landscape, fauna, and animals co-inhabiting underwater. He’s got a soft spot for sharks, which have been the subject of his photography for nearly two decades. Through his writing and images, Martin strives to provide a taste of, or perhaps even inspire others to jump in and explore the majestic big blue and its magnificent creatures.
Interview with Martin
What (or who) persuaded you to become a professional diver?
My love for being underwater amidst wildlife and a never-ending desire to capture the beauty.
Describe your biggest challenge when diving.
My biggest challenge has been blending with the underwater environment as much as a human being possibly could.
Which diving achievement are you most proud of?
My 16 years of continued survival in underwater journalism on a professional level.
What was your first diving experience like?
I actually got lost and separated right away. I was so amazed that I could stay down longer than just one breath, that I felt I didn’t need anything else in my view. I don’t know of any better feeling than being alone in the ocean surrounded by marine life. There’s no need to have humans close by.
Why do you prefer rebreather?
Rebreather gives me freedom and silence which are two necessary features for assimilating into the surroundings.
What's your favorite diving gear?
CCR Liberty, Atomic titanium regs, and Atomic masks.
What's your favorite diving spot?
Galapagos.
Media
31. 3. 2021 DIVERNET
Learn more >Nikola Valtošová: Understanding Sharks - Martin Strmiska (page 54 - 57).