Ocean Conservationist, Shark Activist, Underwater Photographer. Kapolei, Hawaii
Krystal was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and moved to Hawaii in 2014, when she began photographing underwater and free diving. She is well known for capturing beautiful, artistic images underwater, from mermaid photography and couples experiences to conservation awareness projects and commercial collaborations. Her mission is to help raise awareness for animal species in the oceans through beautiful imagery.
WHY I LOVE THE OCEAN:
Everything! Honestly, I could list a million reasons why I love being underwater. If I was forced to narrow it down, it would be the diverse marine life. It is the most important to me. The second thing I love is how every dive is different. Each and every dive is unique, from the animals to the tide to the water clarity, sounds and motion. It’s all truly stunning under the surface. I love to teach others about the importance of ocean conservation and to inspire them.
HOW I STARTED PHOTOGRAPHING UNDERWATER:
I found my passion for photography early on in life and began capturing treasured memories when I was in high school. Through the years, I have discovered an unquenchable desire for travel and for making women feel empowered and beautiful in their own skin through my imagery. Living in paradise has opened my eyes to an entire new world of ocean life and it sparked my love of underwater photography. I started using my GoPro to photograph turtles on Oahu, which led to a full camera setup. Shore diving became a huge passion and stress reliever. After a while it became routine to freedive. I would spend hours with friends under the surface practicing blowing bubbles, diving with pods of dolphins and exploring the deep blue. It was love at first sight.
WHO I ADMIRE:
Several people have helped transform and inspired me. My parents, who adopted me, helped mold me into a gentle human being with a good moral compass. Another huge influence in my life would be Dr. Sylvia Earle. She has set the bar high and dedicated her life in the name of science and conservation and I respect what she’s done with her life. And lastly, photographers Paul Nicklen and Christina Mittermeier. They have used their talents to shed light on the truth of the sea and our environment even when it’s hard to show the world. I aspire to be even a quarter of who they are.
WHEN I’M NOT DIVING WITH SHARKS:
I am a gamer! I love to play computer games and I am very competitive. I also really enjoy cooking and making crafts in my spare time.
MY FAVORITE CRESSI GEAR:
It’s a toss-up between my Nano mask and my Termico spring suit.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CRESSI OCEAN AMBASSADOR:
When you say “yes” to Cressi, you become part of this fun-loving ocean family. I am always so grateful for the support they provide to help me be the best freediver and underwater photographer I can be. One day I hope to travel to Genoa and meet Mr. Cressi in person.
FIND ME:
instragram.com/KrystalKlear, krystalklearimages.com
Patricia Wuest
Maitland, Florida, USA Dive Magazine Journalist, Scuba Gear Tester, Ocean Conservationist. As the editor- in- chief of Scuba Diving and Sport Diver magazines, Patricia has had a 25- year career in dive…Read More