Diver image. Do you even think about it?

[Saltyhawg]

Function has to do with function. We focus on that. but not really how we appear to others, especially bystanders. Yet, because we are friendly and approachable, not cool and aloof (and some have huge camera systems) many bystanders come up to us after dives to ask us what we are doing. We often talk for a long time with them if they seem interested. That helpfulness does more for our image than the colour of fins or what hose goes where. Our intelligence in answering their questions speaks to our "experience" (or insanity as the case may be).

This is better than I could have said it. The impression we make with non divers is a lot more about how we act than how we look. If we act like elitest snobs that impression is going to be poor. If we are friendly and engaging the impression will be good.

As a new diver I've been on two dive trips (Cozumel and Belize). Both times my wife and I were the least experienced divers on the boats, on one trip by several thousand dives. We were treated great and made friends we still keep in touch with. Hopefully that experience is representative. I've seen nothing to contradict that.

 

[uncfnp]

...//... We focus on that. but not really how we appear to others, especially bystanders. Yet, because we are friendly and approachable, not cool and aloof (and some have huge camera systems) many bystanders come up to us after dives to ask us what we are doing. We often talk for a long time with them if they seem interested. That helpfulness does more for our image than the colour of fins or what hose goes where. Our intelligence in answering their questions speaks to our "experience" (or insanity as the case may be).

For the most part, fellow divers couldn't seem to care less what my gear looks like. But as for bystanders, I get approached most when I am cleaning lobster at the cleaning station that just happens to be in front of the marina restaurant. Always seems to draw interest.

 

[Z Gear]

This is better than I could have said it. The impression we make with non divers is a lot more about how we act than how we look. If we act like elitest snobs that impression is going to be poor. If we are friendly and engaging the impression will be good.

As a new diver I've been on two dive trips (Cozumel and Belize). Both times my wife and I were the least experienced divers on the boats, on one trip by several thousand dives. We were treated great and made friends we still keep in touch with. Hopefully that experience is representative. I've seen nothing to contradict that.

Dale and Saltyhawg make a very valid point which I over looked. Image is nothing with out taking into consideration ones attitude and how they treat others. Very important I'm glad I took a second look at this. Diver image has more to do with how we act than how we look, this sounds good to me!
Sorry but I'm a bit slow...to catch on, but I'll get there eventually.

 

[DaleC]

You're not slow at all, just trying to find ones way through this sometimes contradictory and opinion laden pastime. I like to say that we bring our beliefs here to SB to see if they stand up to the challenge of discussion. That's the real value of debate. Some do, some don't, some just need rethinking. I've undergone many "corrections" in my time (especially when it comes to dive related math)

 

[KeithG]

Dale and Saltyhawg make a very valid point which I over looked. Image is nothing with out taking into consideration ones attitude and how they treat others. Very important I'm glad I took a second look at this. Diver image has more to do with how we act than how we look, this sounds good to me!
Sorry but I'm a bit slow...to catch on, but I'll get there eventually.

Agreed! And once you have mastered the ability to become a full jedi grumpy old fart, then you will fully understand.

“PATIENCE YOU MUST HAVE my young padawan”

 

[flyin01]

I' m too busy experienceing the underwater world to give a rats rear end what other people think about my appearance. If it is working for you and it is safe for you and your buddy......enjoy it.

 

[Kharon]

Humm... standing on the sidelines making comments in a thread about a thread beneath ones participation. What would RJP make of this?

Not interested in snarky.

I think it's a pretty relevant topic because image is one of the major motivators (along with safety) that sales people use to flog gimmicky gear on newer divers (unless there really is a use for titanium in regulators). I see this as an avenue for the counter point argument. If we can save just one person from purchasing a Master SCUBA Diver jacket patch I think it was worth it.

+1 - good point.

 

[Bob DBF]

I think it's a pretty relevant topic because image is one of the major motivators (along with safety) that sales people use to flog gimmicky gear on newer divers (unless there really is a use for titanium in regulators). I see this as an avenue for the counter point argument. If we can save just one person from purchasing a Master SCUBA Diver jacket patch I think it was worth it.

Now when a diver asks me why I still use my old metal regs, I'm just going to say titanium.

Purchasing a Master SCUBA Diver jacket patch may be a faux pas, but the real save is keeping it off the jacket.

Actually my idea of fun is to bump into the divers on the boat wearing cammo wetsuits, then say sorry I didn't see you.



Bob
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"This is scuba board, where problems are imagined or overstated......and chests get thumped about what some would do about those "problems" "- PullMyFinger

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

I could never grasp the point of camo wetsuits/drysuit ... must be hot as hell walking through the jungle in those things ...

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[DaleC]

Actually my idea of fun is to bump into the divers on the boat wearing cammo wetsuits, then say sorry I didn't see you.
Bob

Where's the "love it" button.