Before starting underwater photography, a diver should ensure they have:

Good buoyancy control is essential for underwater photography because it directly impacts a diver's ability to stabilize themselves while capturing images. When a diver maintains perfect buoyancy, they can hover at various depths without excessive movement, minimizing the risk of stirring up sediment or disturbing marine life. This stability allows for sharper images and better composition since the camera remains steady during the photo-taking process.

Additionally, good buoyancy control enables a diver to focus on framing their shot without needing to constantly adjust their position in the water, which can lead to unintentional movement and blurry images. Therefore, mastering buoyancy control is a key skill that significantly enhances the quality of underwater photography.

While having a reliable camera, a dive guide, and an underwater light are also important aspects of preparing for an underwater photography session, the foundational skill of buoyancy control is vital for achieving successful and stable photographs beneath the surface.