Going Deep…

Tamara Thomsen with Diversions Scuba explores an abandoned cave near Potosi, WI.

I can’t express how excited I was for this recent project with Madison Magazine. The goal was to highlight the mysterious underwater world surrounding the Madison area, and the people who explore it.

I’ve been shooting underwater photos for more than a decade, but the subject matter is mostly in pools capturing fashion, models and editorial. Although I love this kind of work, there's an unmatched serenity that comes from submerging yourself beneath the lake's surface, and not seeing the bottom. Underwater photography is an art that encapsulates the peace and enchantment of a rarely explored world, where nature and forgotten man-made treasures continue to flourish… mostly undisturbed.

Behind-the-scenes shot with Tamara Thomsen of Diversions Scuba at an abandoned mine near Potosi, WI.

This projects certainly held its challenges, with leaking underwater housing, lacerations from razor sharp zebra mussels (for which I probably should have received stitches), plumes of algae, bad weather and of course low-light. But every struggle and challenge makes the prize sweeter. I love underwater work because it is difficult. The prep is time intensive. It is physically challenging. The post production work is a nightmare, and electrical gear does not do well around water. But it is also the most beautiful and rewarding work, and it’s the experience itself that makes it truly special. There's a unique sense of calmness that descends upon you as you dive below the surface. Almost a meditative experience - where time slow down, and the only sounds are the muffled rhythm of your heartbeat and the gentle lapping of water.

Being able to capture these photos and shoot the cover of this month’s Madison Magazine, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to combine my passion for photography with my love for diving, and I am humbled to share a glimpse of its beauty.

August cover of Madison Magazine. This is the 14th cover I photographed for the publication.