Alex del Olmo is not just a filmmaker – he is one of the most respected underwater cinematographers on the planet. With two decades of experience, dozens of iconic wildlife encounters, and a portfolio that spans the most remote corners of the ocean, Alex has helped shape how the world sees life beneath the surface. He also brings that same cinematic eye to guests on charters with Explorers, helping them capture extraordinary underwater moments of their own.

Master of the Depths

Few underwater filmmakers can claim to have captured the ocean with the same depth, artistry, and scale as Alex del Olmo. His body of work has become legendary, spanning the most remote corners of the Indo-Pacific. Alex has filmed everything from schooling hammerheads to sleeping sperm whales – often in conditions only the most seasoned divers dare to explore.

His reputation speaks for itself. But what makes Alex truly unique is that, unlike many underwater filmmakers who guard their techniques, he is generous with his knowledge – an incredible mentor and guide for everyone from seasoned divers to budding underwater photographers alike. When he’s on board an expedition, you don’t just watch him work – you learn from the best.

Fascinated with Filmmaking

“I was always fascinated by what lay beneath the sea,” says Alex, who grew up sailing Spain’s Costa Brava by small boat with his father. “For me, it was like exploring outer space. That was my first step toward diving.” After becoming a certified diver and completing a degree in visual communications, what began as a guest trip on board a yacht soon became the launchpad for one of the most remarkable careers in underwater filmmaking. Invited to join the crew, Alex started capturing breathtaking footage that would ultimately earn him global recognition.

“Filming underwater is about knowing exactly what to expect and preparing for the unexpected,” he explains. “The ocean doesn’t give you second chances, so every shot has to be perfect.”

Every frame Alex captures is a testament to his meticulous preparation. His understanding of the ocean, honed over years of diving experience, allows him to approach each dive with a level of expertise that few can match.

A Mentor at Heart

Alex’s extensive experience isn’t just for his films – he also offers a unique opportunity for those who want to experience his world of underwater cinematography up close. Alex joins yacht charters to capture unforgettable moments and allow yacht charter guests to take home incredible films from their time on board.

Alex is not only a master of his craft but also a generous teacher who shares his wealth of knowledge with others. Whether it’s tips on underwater cinematography, guidance on the best equipment, or insights into filming in ocean environments, Alex takes the time to teach and inspire those around him.

His commitment to passing on his expertise ensures that everyone on the charter gains a deeper understanding of the art of underwater filmmaking, leaving them with invaluable skills and memories they’ll carry with them long after the dive is over.

Alex’s Greatest Wildlife Moments

With two decades of diving behind him, Alex has experienced countless unforgettable moments beneath the surface.

The Ring of Fire, Indonesia: Surrounded by hammerheads, as well as hundreds of bigeye trevallies, schooling barracudas, oceanic manta rays, and even whale sharks, this short movie is a testament to the biodiversity in Indonesia, where Alex also captured an incredible sight: a mother sperm whale with a calf.

Schooling hammerhead sharks can sometimes be seen around several islands in the Banda Sea. With the cold upwelling, they tend to swim closer to the surface, but in that particular case, Alex had to go down to 50 meters. He only had one opportunity to make the shot, and went as close as possible to the hammerhead schooling, without making them leave in fear. Time, depth, and pressure are a combination that Alex often has to work with to get an epic shot.

Ambon to Sorong, Raja Ampat, Indonesia: A true celebration of Indonesia’s biodiversity, this film is a result of Alex’s diving across three distinctive seas – Banda, Seram, and Halmahera – achieving incredible footage of coral reefs and colorful schools of fish with some surprises, including the appearance of a black marlin and giant olive sea snakes.

Tools of the Trade 

A craftsman is only as good as his tools, and Alex is meticulous when it comes to his gear. His setup is designed for versatility, allowing him to adapt instantly to different conditions and subjects. “I always have multiple lenses prepared – fisheye for sweeping reef landscapes, rectilinear wide-angle for close-ups of large creatures, and macro for the tiniest, most intricate marine life,” he says. “Lighting is crucial too – knowing how to work with the natural light is what gives the footage that cinematic quality.”

Beyond the equipment, Alex’s real strength lies in his ability to adapt quickly to the ever-changing environment of the sea. Unlike controlled studio environments, filming in open water demands constant flexibility. Whether it’s sudden changes in light or the unpredictable behavior of marine life, Alex remains unfazed, knowing how to seize the perfect moment when it appears.

Exploring the World’s Greatest Dive Sites

Over the years, Alex has had the privilege of diving in some of the world’s most celebrated underwater sites. From Raja Ampat to Lembeh Strait, living and working on board a yacht allowed him to capture an incredible amount of footage – but he is always looking forward to the next dive. “As a cameraman, even after visiting a place many times, I always want to return to take different or better shots,” he says. 

While Alex has traveled extensively, some locations still top his bucket list. “Socorro in Mexico is high on my list for its incredible pelagic life. I’d also love to revisit the Galápagos – I went when I was young, before I was a cameraman, so I’d love to experience it with fresh eyes. I’m also intrigued by underwater caves, particularly in Mexico.”

When it comes to specific creatures, Alex has a particular affinity for the tiniest marine life. “I’m fascinated by the smallest marine creatures,” he explains. “The lacy Rhinopias, a rare type of scorpionfish, is high on my list. Papua New Guinea is one of the best places to see them, and I’m eager to film there.”

Leaving a Legacy Beneath the Surface

Of course, no conversation about Alex’s work would be complete without touching on his commitment to conservation. Over time, his perspective on using his art for environmental causes has evolved.

For Alex, his films are a way to encourage guests to understand how vital ocean conservation is all over the world. Through his mentorship and imagery, he helps guests develop a personal connection with marine life – and, in turn, a passion for protecting it. “I make a conscious effort to highlight not just the beauty of marine life but also the environmental challenges we face,” he says. “My goal is to inspire action through visual storytelling.”

For those lucky enough to dive with Alex, the experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to not only witness the wonders of the ocean but also to be a part of an incredible visual story – one to treasure forever.

Into the Blue: Wonders of the Coral Triangle

This multi-award-winning underwater documentary series, spanning eight hour-long episodes, showcases Alex’s underwater and aerial cinematography filmed over four years across some of Indonesia’s most remote regions.

The series has received more than 15 international awards at some of the most prestigious underwater film festivals in Europe and the United States.

Where Next?

If you’re inspired to work with Alex del Olmo on your next yacht charter, we’re here to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
Contact Explorers to begin.