Beneath the waves and far from the conventional realm of terrestrial photography, Sofi Aida Sugiharto has carved a niche that melds artistry with exploration. Her journey into underwater photography began with a simple desire to capture her children’s moments, but it evolved into a profound exploration of the submerged world. From her first dive in 2004 to her current pursuits across diverse genres like landscape and drone photography, Sofi’s lens has continually sought to reveal the unseen. Her work not only reflects her technical skill but also her deep connection with the world’s most remote and enigmatic places.
How did your interest in underwater photography begin?
My passion for photography started with capturing moments of my children. Back then, I was using a film camera, and later I transitioned to a digital camera with a 2-megapixel resolution. It wasn’t until 2004, when I began diving with my husband, that I discovered an entirely different world beneath the water’s surface. I felt an overwhelming urge to share what I saw underwater, and photography became the most straightforward medium for me to visualize these experiences. In 2006, I decided to pursue the PADI Underwater Photography Specialty. By 2013, my interests had expanded to include landscape, nature, and drone photography, and I’ve continued to explore these fields ever since.
How do you balance your life and photography?
I ensure that I manage my time well, dedicating time to my family, hobbies, and work. In this digital age, it’s much easier to maintain this balance because many tasks can be completed online, allowing me to stay connected and productive without sacrificing personal time.
What are your favorite genres of photography?
Underwater photography, unique tribes, and cultural photography are my top favorites.
What future destinations are you looking forward to exploring next?
Antarctica is at the top of my list. I’m eager to witness penguins and polar bears in their natural habitats.
Can you share a memorable experience with Mahacaraka? Why?
One of my most unforgettable trips with Mahacaraka was in Siberia, Russia. The extreme terrain and weather, with temperatures dropping to minus 51 degrees Celsius, made it a challenging experience. However, the sunrise views were breathtaking. I lived with the Nenets tribe, observing their daily activities and even participating in their migration. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Are there any photographers or artists who have influenced your style of photography?
I don’t have a specific name in mind, but whenever I see something I like, it often becomes my next destination or serves as a reference for my work.
What is the most underrated and overrated destination you have visited so far? Why?
China is the most underrated destination, in my opinion. Contrary to the negative testimonials I had heard, I found the country much cleaner and more organized than expected after several visits. On the other hand, I feel the U.S. is somewhat overrated. Despite being a large and modern country, it has its challenges, particularly with crime.
What are some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of capturing underwater environments?
One of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences was photographing a blue whale in Sri Lanka. We were freediving, so we had to jump from the boat quickly as it approached the whale. We had to dive deep and fast to capture the whale before it disappeared into the depths, which is the opposite of the relaxed technique we usually learn in freediving. Additionally, other boats were around us, and unlike in diving, there was no buoy to mark the divers below, making it a more intense experience.
What are some of the proudest achievements you’ve accomplished in photography so far?
My photographs have been widely published in many Indonesian diving books and local diving magazines, with one even gracing the cover of a Russian underwater magazine. I’ve also had the opportunity to share my experiences as a speaker at various underwater photography and diving events, such as ADEX in Singapore, MIDE in Malaysia, and some photography communities in America. Moreover, I’ve received several awards, including the Adam Malik Memorial Award at the SFI 40th, Photographic Society of America (PSA), and Fédération Internationale de l’Art Photographique (FIAP) of France.
Sofi Aida Sugiharto’s photographic journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From the icy expanses of Siberia to the depths of the ocean, her work transcends mere documentation, offering a window into worlds often untouched by the average observer. As she looks toward future adventures in Antarctica, Sofi’s story continues to inspire and captivate, reminding us of the boundless beauty that lies just beyond the horizon and the transformative impact of capturing these moments through the art of photography.
