`` The sea , once it casts its spell , holds one in its net of wonder forever . '' -- French explorer Jacques Cousteau . It 's said that the ocean is like space : Vast and filled with life , most of which we have yet to discover . The aquatic frontier captivates those who dare to explore its depths , by offering a new realm filled with color and mystery . In 1968 , with the advent of color TV , French explorer Jacques Cousteau introduced viewers to the deep blue sea with his show , `` The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau , '' which used underwater cinematography to bring the beauty and wonder of the ocean to viewers around the globe . Fabien Cousteau spends 31 days under the sea . Today , thanks to relatively inexpensive , yet highly sophisticated equipment and access to diving lessons , photographers are able to explore the ocean through their own lens . CNN invited enthusiasts to share their best underwater photos and the stories behind their explorations under the sea . Ready to dive into the world of underwater photography ? Explore the gallery above to view some of the best user-submitted photos and to find out how they captured these amazing underwater images . Do you have a passion for underwater photography ? Share your photos with iReport and you could be featured on CNN.com .
Underwater photographers are often SCUBA certified and experienced divers . With a little patience and the right equipment , underwater photos can be captured anywhere . The best way to get started is with an inexpensive camera that you will use for about 2 years before upgrading or buying something more expensive.