I spent four and a half months living on the beautiful little island of Koh Tao. Four of those months were spent fully immersed in the incredible world of Underwater Videography. It was with many mixed feelings that I finally said goodbye to it all on October 15th. Having spent the entire summer season with the film team at Oceans Below exposed me to many great experiences. I've learned the secrets of shooting and working with SD and HD underwater camera equipment and I feel so much more confident in my filming skills as well as editing skills.  Aidy and Elisabeth were there when I needed help and/or advice...and were also there to razz me whenever a strange mishap occurred (with me around...this was quite often!). I was also honored to be the 1st person ever certified as a BSAC Professional Underwater Videographer- a course that Aidy and Elisabeth designed at the request of BSAC!


Leila Perreira...a bit of a shark herself...

The atmosphere in the office was always wonderful, and I can truly say that even though I was new in the videography business...I felt respected. I spent most of the summer filming with Koh Tao Easy Divers, a great little shop right off the pier in Mae Haad. They became somewhat of an extended family to me and many great times were had on the boat. I think even their boat captain finally warmed up to me in the end! Next summer I have plans to land on the great and mysterious continent that is Africa. My main goal is to dive with and film Great White Sharks. Call me crazy, but I just love sharks and am fascinated by them beyond belief. Oceans Below has provided me with the skills and confidence necessary to excel as a Professional Underwater Videographer. All I can hope is that with any future assignment...that my work can reflect my training and that I can make them proud. Thank you Oceans Below for an amazing summer! I will never forget you...


Thanks for the great work Leila, and all the best in the future!