Andalusian Barbel (Barbus sclateri)

Mértola, Guadiana NP, Portugal

Nikon D300 + Subal ND300 housing + Nikon 10.5mm f 2,8
iso 400, 1/ 250, f/10

Portugal. Up North, clear waters, many mountain rivers, not many big fishes; down South, larger species but dirty, closed waters, little opportunities for photos. At the time I was interested in registering some of the preys of the European Otter – in this instance, an Andalusian Barbel – to complete an article about that particular mammal, later published by National Geographic Portugal. The opportunity arrived on morning in March, after a series of failed attempts, during a short period a couple of weeks after strong rain, following winter. It is certainly one of my favorite photos.

underwater landscape
Rio Olo, Serra do Alvão, Portugal

For a number of reasons, which include the cost of the equipment needed as well as some ignorance of its beauty and photographic potential, fresh water photography may certainly be considered as one of the most neglected areas of the art. Lately I have been exploring some rivers and rivulets in the north of Portugal. I already knew some of them and had always thought them to be idyllic locations, when I watched them from high above. Others, like the present one, I accessed with the help of generous friends and I have yet to regret it…

Nikon D300 + Nikon 10.5mm f2.8 VR + Subal housing ND300
iso 500, 1/8, f8