THE EXPERENCE
Between the 21st and 27th of June 2026, you will join David Diley for five days of diving, with two dives per day. Alongside him, you will encounter multiple species of sharks, dolphins, whales, sailfish, marlin, and seabirds, and witness one of the greatest annual predation events on Earth — the world-famous Sardine Run.
Under David’s wing you will be immersed in a fresh and more detailed underwater film-making workshop that is unlike any other. Designed to cater for all abilities, the workshop aims not only to expand your knowledge of the technical aspects of filming underwater, but more importantly, to nurture your creativity, emboldening you to create enthralling stories.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT TO LEARN
- Best camera settings and moving away from “auto” – You control the camera, the camera doesn’t control you!
- Framing, composition, andLighting
- Shooting a sequence
- Cinematic techniques (camera movement, reveals, focal length, light & dark)
- Building a mood in your footage
- Story-telling and editing techniques
- Directing your on-screen (human) talent
- How to approach wildlife
- Diving during predations
- Logging and organising your footage.
- Colour correction and creative colour grading.
- Export settings for best quality uploads.
WHAT THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 7 nights accommodation
- 5 days of diving, 2 dives per day
- 5-day Workshop
- Breakfast
- Transport from King Shaka International Airport (Durban International Airport)
WHO IS DAVID DILEY?
David Diley is a multi-award-winning Film-Maker and Underwater Cinematographer, best known for his work with large sharks and other charismatic marine predators. He has been responsible for a variety of projects within Film, Television, Short Film and Commercial Film as a Director, Cinematographer, Editor and Digital Colourist, receiving international acclaim for his stylised, creative and unique approach to film-making and his passion for inspiring others to find their own creative voice in the underwater world.
“David Diley is an immensely talented film-maker whose gift as a storyteller effortlessly creates a deep emotional connection between the viewer and the subjects of his films. Every scene draws the audience in with stunning visuals, a perfectly balanced score, and an astonishing attention to detail. David’s films are truly a treat for all of the senses.” -Tanya Houppermans, Photographer and National Geographic Filmmaker
“David Diley is an astonishingly accomplished cinematographer. His ability to effectively tell a story through film while working under difficult conditions illustrates his depth of knowledge and his commitment to his craft.” Dr. John B. Griffith PhD; Associate Editor, DeeperBlue.com
ACCOMMODATION
“The Lookout” guesthouse has eight individually styled, en-suite double rooms. The guesthouse has a heated pool, relaxing outdoor area, secure gear storage, rinse stations, quality linens and towels and is powered throughout by solar energy. It is a beautiful, peaceful retreat where you can relax, edit your footage, socialise with other guests, take a swim or just chill out in your room. The perfect place to be after the high-energy morning dives.
