Photographing Crocodiles at Banco Chinchorro, Mexico

Gregory Sweeney · Issue 130, Jan/Feb 2023 · pp. 43–46

Products mentioned: Canon 5D MKIV, Nauticam housing, Canon EF15mm F2.8 fisheye, Canon 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, Inon Z-330 strobes, RainX, Pledge furniture polish

Opportunities to dive with and photograph sharks are numerous all over the world, but chances to get photographic quality encounters with reptiles is scarcer. Some species of crocodiles or alligators are too dangerous for most to do safely, but the American Crocodiles of Banco Chinchorro , Mexico are of such a nature that one can get close to them safely in the shallow, clear, warm water. This is a rare opportunity to get close to a misunderstood, rare, and dangerous marine animal in a situation as safe as possible. Getting to them is a pleasant adventure to a remote location few are allowed to visit. This is a true adventure for an experienced scuba diver and underwater photographer. The highlight is being in the shallow water with the curious crocodile just meters away and sitting still on the bottom with its mouth open and crooked white teeth forming a menacing grin, but like all good…