For some, a smartphone is a tool for communication. For Professor Rob Layton, it’s a professional mobile news studio. As a senior fellow teaching mobile journalism and smartphone photography at Australia's Bond University, Rob travels the globe training journalists and communication professionals to master the art of mobile content creation. When your craft demands capturing high-stakes moments from the heart of the action, your equipment can't just be "good enough"—it must be professional, reliable, and an extension of your creative vision. This is the story of why an expert in mobile imaging has trusted DIVEVOLK for five years, from the classroom to the challenging surf of the Australian coast.
An Expert's Choice: Why DIVEVOLK?
As a professor of mobile journalism, Rob Layton has a rigorous set of standards for his gear. The equipment must be intuitive enough for rapid deployment in the field yet robust enough to deliver professional-quality results consistently. For his underwater and surf photography, the demands are even greater.
First Encounter and Enduring Trust (2020)
The story begins in 2020. Eager to push the boundaries of mobile photography into the dynamic world of surf photography, Rob paired the DIVEVOLK SeaTouch 3 with his iPhone 11 Pro. This decision wasn't just about getting a waterproof case; it was about finding a true underwater imaging tool that met three core needs:
- Unrestricted Full Touchscreen Control: The ability to precisely focus and capture images without fumbling with cumbersome buttons is critical. DIVEVOLK's patented underwater touchscreen technology was a game-changer, offering the same intuitive control below the waves as above them.
- Superior Waterproof and Element-Proof Performance: From corrosive saltwater to fine sand, the surf zone is an unforgiving environment. Rob needed a housing that offered uncompromising protection against the elements, dive after dive.
- Crystal-Clear Image Quality: A housing is useless if it degrades the quality of the lens. Rob required a solution that guaranteed sharp, clear, and vibrant images, preserving the integrity of the iPhone's advanced camera system.
A Five-Year Trial by Water: From SeaTouch 3 to SeaTouch 4 MAX
A commitment of five years is the ultimate testament to a product's quality and reliability. Throughout this time, Rob Layton’s DIVEVOLK housings have been his steadfast companions, enduring the relentless challenges of the Australian seas and proving their mettle in high-impact, high-speed environments.
His incredible work has powerfully demonstrated that a smartphone housing isn't just for calm snorkeling. It's an essential tool for dynamic "on-water" sports like surfing, where speed and impact resistance are paramount.
Rob's portfolio shatters the myth that professional water sports photography is the exclusive domain of traditional DSLRs. He proves that with the right gear, the powerful camera in your pocket can capture it all.
The Evolution of an Essential Tool
As camera technology advanced, so did Rob's gear. His journey naturally progressed to the latest SeaTouch 4 MAX, paired with the cutting-edge iPhone 16 Pro Max. This upgrade was a choice driven by years of trust and the tangible benefits of the new system, including more streamlined operation and full support for the latest iPhone's powerful camera features. It's a decision rooted in a long-term partnership with a brand that has consistently delivered.
A Ripple Effect: From Personal Use to Industry Influence
Rob's influence extends far beyond his own stunning creations. He has become a pivotal figure in educating the market on the immense potential of underwater housings across a spectrum of activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.
His advocacy and real-world results have had a tangible impact. Under his influence and guidance, the swimming program at Bond University procured a batch of DIVEVOLK waterproof housings to use for professional swimming instruction and analysis—a powerful endorsement of the product's utility and reliability in an academic and athletic setting.
The Priceless Role of a Product Advisor
Beyond being a user and advocate, Professor Layton plays another vital role for DIVEVOLK: he is an expert product consultant and feedback provider. Drawing from his extensive frontline experience, he has offered invaluable insights on critical design elements like the housing's grip and ergonomics, touchscreen sensitivity, and the optical quality of the lens ports. This direct feedback from a professional creator is essential, helping us refine our products to better serve the entire community.
Conclusion and a Tribute to a Pioneer
We extend our deepest gratitude to Professor Rob Layton for five years of unwavering trust, exceptional content creation, and generous collaboration. His journey from an early adopter to a key influencer embodies the spirit of exploration and innovation that drives us.
Rob's story elevates from an individual's success to a shared mission. At DIVEVOLK, our purpose is to empower every passionate content creator just like him. We build reliable, professional-grade tools so that you can bravely explore the world, defy the elements, and share every breathtaking moment without hesitation. We can't wait to see what you'll capture next.
Explore Rob's work on his official website and follow his incredible iPhoneography journey on Instagram.
