Solo diving is something that you should take very seriously. Here at Brunswick / Tricity Scuba we offer a Solo Diving course that will open your eyes to the things that you should plan for should you choose to undertake this. As an instructor I find that with students I have used or considered many of the precautions learned in the solo course. These things include a more comprehensive gas management plan, redundant gas supply, entanglement contingencies, loss or a mask or broken strap, predive planning, and many other items.
Having been in places like Cooper River I will also state that in these conditions, even with a dive buddy your solo diving and all the above need to be considered. I will also say that as a underwater photographer, unless you have a patient dive buddy it can be better for all if I go alone. Sitting in one spot for 10 or 15 min for conditions to be just right for a shot is not something that others may cater to.
Whatever you choose consider the solo course from an instructor that you’re comfortable with as a way to make you a better diver. Remember however that diving with a buddy will always make your dives more enjoyable.
Best Fishes [