Photography has been a hobby trend for so many people, but how many do you know that have a passion for underwater photography? Maher Abid, a 43 year old Aramco employee, is an example of one of those people. It all started 20 years ago when he went on his first dive in the Red Sea. “When I saw this magnificent world underwater, I just had to share it with the world“ says Abid. With focusing all at once on scuba gear, photography gear and keeping an eye wide open for any danger, this photographer has only seconds to capture the “perfect” image upon finding a subject. “Professional underwater cameras are not digital” explains Abid, “so I don’t get to see the image until after it’s developed.”

“My personal favorite spot to take photos is in Yonbo. Sometimes I go on night dives, and others during the day, both are completely different moods and subjects to capture” says Abid. As they say, a picture speaks a thousand words. Using his 20 year old camera and skills, Abid’s goal is not only to show you a pretty image, but also to send a message loud and clear against coral hunters and how important it is to save our underwater world just as the land above water.

Three exhibitions and a booklet “We Respect the Environment” have featured some of Abid’s accomplishments in creating environment awareness. His advice to all those interested in pursuing this hobby is to first of all, learn about the underwater species, know what’s poisonous and what’s not. Do your homework and lastly, do have a plan and goal before your dive. If you do all that, then you’re on the safe side.