Divers. Daring photographers hope to revolutionize the making of under-water photographs "The hunt for new sensations created the idea for a series of photographs to be made under the Spree River in Berlin. Hitherto all under-water pictures were made in specially prepared glass diving bells. "We, however, desired to experience a new sensation. So, garbed in the usual cumbersome outfit of an under-water diver, we nade the trip to the bed of the Elbe River in this way, carrying a specially constructed camera designed by me--Willie Ruse. We were ably assisted in our task by Diver Boll, who holds a record of 14 hours under water. Of course, before undertaking this following our experiences in photographing ourselves as we parachuted from a plane to Mother Earth, we went to a physician who tested our heart and lung reactions thoroughly. "We had never worn 36-pound shoes before and, as this was a part of our diving equipment, it was necessary to know before we ventured into the water how to use our nether limbs. "When we were finally dressed for our venture below the water our outer garments weighted 320 pounds. By no means is that a weight to be trifled with. "Well, we walked down the ladder gingerly--we assure you--thinking over the final warning of Herr Boll--"once you are in the water we can only give you air; the rest--and that, of course, means your lines--are entirely in your own hands. To an amateur diver, needless to say, this added no pleasures to the adventure. "Though we were only under water 20 minutes before we signalled to those above to hoist us up, it seemed like 20 years." "Just before the final glass was screwed into the helmet, my partner and I examined our specially constructed cameras carefully."

Underwood & Underwood · [ca. 1932]

[Information from item housing] Diving: Misc.