#makrogehtimmer
We are proud to partner with #makrogehtimmer, an international Facebook community for underwater photography enthusiasts and a leading hub for marine macro photography. The community brings together photographers from around the world who share an interest in capturing the intricate beauty of marine life.
Originally created as the motto for a small underwater macro photography workshop at a lake in Germany, #makrogehtimmer loosely translates as “you can always do macro”, regardless of limited visibility or cold water. Founded in 2022, the community has grown to include members from more than 100 countries.
Its activities cover underwater macro photography, competitions, destinations, workshops and techniques, supported by regular webinars and themed weeks that encourage members to learn, participate and share their experience. The community has also brought photographers together through an exhibition of underwater macro photography in Zurich, Switzerland.
Members of #makrogehtimmer are known for their skill in capturing detailed images of marine life and for their commitment to responsible underwater photography. These values align closely with Real Focus: Underwater Photography Shootout, which is co-organised by Solitude World and #makrogehtimmer.
Photographers from the #makrogehtimmer community have also contributed their knowledge and experience to Real Focus, including through its international judging panel.
Dr David Harasti
Dr David Harasti is a marine biologist and conservation researcher with more than two decades of experience studying threatened species, marine biodiversity and the effectiveness of marine protected areas.
His research has contributed significantly to the understanding and conservation of species such as the endangered White’s seahorse (Hippocampus whitei), including the development of artificial habitats designed to support vulnerable populations. His work helps connect scientific research with practical marine conservation.
As scientific lead for the Real Focus marine species behaviour study, Dr Harasti provides guidance to help ensure that images and observations collected through the shootout can contribute meaningfully to the understanding and protection of underwater ecosystems.