Enterprise Nation

In 2006, Maria Munn dived in at the deep end and launched her own underwater photography business. Ocean Visions runs special one day courses to help divers with compact cameras. Maria stopped by to answer some home business questions.

In which year did you launch the company?

I launched the company officially two years ago.

How much time do you spend in your home office versus overseas trips?

I now spend about 90% of my time at home, before I spent 30-40% of my time leading trips abroad.

How do you generate income?

I generate income from both my courses, together with selling my own prints and printing my guests' own pictures onto canvas.

What has been your most effective form of marketing?

My most effective form of marketing has been promoting how I have helped my guests develop confidence in their own underwater photographic skills.

Is there a country you haven’t yet visited but would like to?

I would love the opportunity to dive in ice in the Arctic Circle.

What’s the best photo you’ve ever taken?

That's difficult to answer as there are a variety of photographs which are my favourites for different reasons. I think my photograph of a White Shark is my favourite. Sharks are so misunderstood and portrayed to be the 'bad guys.' I love this particular photo as the shark is portrayed as a majestic animal in it's natural habitat.

Has technology opened up new opportunities for your business?

The Internet makes it so much easier to be in contact with underwater photographers from all over the world to share advice on forums, etc., and to broaden the markets to advertise to.

What are your future plans?

I am planning to open a photographic studio this year which will specialise in photographing mums and babies as well as pets in different settings. Photographs will be downloaded and viewed instantly whilst having refreshments, with the aim to provide modern studio settings with a charismatic, homely twist.

What is the one thing in your home office that you couldn’t do without?

My computer! I would never have found yourselves without it!

– Emma Jones

• Ocean Visions