Dive Briefing Copyright © 2004 Craig "Monty" Sheppard and Michelle Gaut

- click to see photos -

August 13, 2004 - Velvia Reef, Florida Islands (Dives 3,4 (Night))

Dive 3: Camera: Canon 1Ds, Sigma 50mm Macro (Dive 3), 2 x Ikelite DS-125

I decided to switch to the Sigma 50mm macro lens because the Canon 50mm/2.5 compact macro lens is only a 1:2 lens. Both are slow and do not have internal focusing, but the Sigma seems to be a *bit* slower, and also extends further out than the Canon does when focused at its closest point.

Velvia Reef is a pinnacle with some nice, large corals spiraling down on all sides. Great macro dive -- lots of lionfish, anemones, crocodilefish, scorpionfish, nudibranch, etc.

Dive 4: Camera: Canon 1Ds, 100mm USM Macro, 2 x Ikelite DS-125

Took some tight portraits of lionfish, and saw the green/orange nudibranch that is framed in the galley of the Bilikiki. We were told, "this is the only site where we can guarantee that you'll probably see [the nudibranch in the galley]." ;)