For many divers 2009 may be a year for the "backyard dive vacation." Fortunately there are plenty of opportunities to get wet without saving up for a huge dive trip. Quarries, lakes, rivers and fjords; local dives sites boast some of the most unique photo ops if you take your time and look around a while.

When the snow is falling in Indiana, I like to sneak away for a weekend in sunny Florida. Many of the freshwater springs produce water as clear as anything you can find in the Caribbean. Sites like Ginnie Springs in High Springs, FL are great for training, exploration or trying out the new gear you got for Christmas.

Divers have a whole new world of creativity at their fingertips. New Digital SLR cameras like the Nikon D90 and the Canon 5D Mark II are capable of capturing full HD video in addition to high resolution digital still images. The ability to shoot video with such a large variety of lenses is great for the distinct needs of an underwater photographer. With the flash diffuser removed a Substrobe DS160's built-in modeling light can be used to provide a continuous light source when using the cameras' video modes. Alternately the Pro-V8 LED Video Lite provides a warm 45° angle of coverage and attaches without tools using the #9575.4 stem mount.

For a dedicated HD video system the JVC HD10 package with optional WP80 Wide Angle Port is a pleasure to use. The WP80 Port is wide and razor sharp, great for capturing over-unders and diver interactions with the manatee in Crystal River. New UR/Pro color correcting filters are now available to fit the WP80 for improved image quality in both tropical and green water settings.

Whether shooting a dSLR or a video camera, keep in mind that you may need two light sources to achieve sufficient coverage for a wide angle lens. For the ultimate in video lighting consider an upgrade to the perfectly even, industry renowned 100° beam of the Pro Video Lite 3.

Six months ago I was still reluctant to leave my digital SLR at home. But the Canon G10 is quickly changing my ways. It's so easy to get good, consistent results. It's so liberating to just turn it on, point, shoot, and be happy. And I haven't even mentioned the extra room in my luggage! Now with the new WD-4 Wide Angle Dome you can achieve a nicely wide, edge-to-edge sharp 28mm angle of coverage. Without sacrificing zoom or macro capabilities. And without spending a fortune. Free at last.

So you might not be planning Micronesia or your next Arctic expedition this year. Instead try looking a little closer to home. There are adventures all around; new things to discover at every site on every dive. For example, our good friend and photographer Dave Harasti sent us this photo taken in his backyard of Nelson Bay, Australia. Click on the image to see a fascinating enlarged view of this tiny anglerfish with babies!

Click Here to see more phenomenal images by Dave Harasti.

Look for more exciting new product developments all year long. And if you're in Chicago, IL February 20-22, stop by Our World Underwater Booth #111-113 to say hello and check out all of the latest toys!