Olympus And PADI By Staff November 21, 2008 — Capturing in-water images is easier than ever for scuba divers and water enthusiasts of all levels as Olympus extends its partnership with PADI (the Professional Association of Diving Instructors) as the official digital underwater photography equipment sponsor of the PADI Diving Society through December 2009. Announced today at the DEMA Show 2008 in Las Vegas, the two companies have extended their relationship and will continue to work closely together to help recreational divers capture amazing images during their scuba and snorkeling adventures.

“Olympus’ innovative cameras are designed to take incredible photographs in any setting, including underwater,” said John McGuire, product manager, Underwater and Outdoor Products, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “PADI is the obvious partner for us as it is the undisputable leader in recreational dive training and education. Additionally, our organizations share similar philosophies: commitment to quality as well as respecting and protecting the environment.”

PADI Americas Director of Marketing and Communications, Kristin Valette, concurs, “PADI maintains a strong commitment to the protection and preservation of the aquatic realm, supporting the philosophy of ‘take only pictures, leave only bubbles.’ Partnering with Olympus, a worldwide brand committed to quality and excellence, enables us to reach more divers and water enthusiasts and spread the passion for underwater photography and ocean conservation. PADI is honored to continue our partnership with Olympus.”

The partnership provides the more than 175,000 PADI Diving Society members with direct access via events to Olympus cameras for learning underwater photography skills and earning a PADI Digital Underwater Photographer Specialty certification. It also enables Olympus and PADI to co-brand their underwater photography offerings at PADI Diving Society events around the world, including the recent PADI Photo Safari hosted in Bonaire as well as the 10th Annual Total Submersion Dive Festival and the Tahiti Dive Festival scheduled for 2009. Additional details are available at www.olympusamerica.com/underwater and www.padi.com.