1. Whats your vibe? describe your style?
Anything in or around the ocean is where it's at for me. I bought an underwater housing just over a year ago, it's been the most challenging and rewarding part of my photography journey yet. I love the transient moments of abstract interactions - the light, colours and texture that create ever-changing patterns on the ocean's surface. I haven't spent a lot of time below the surface, but the experiences I have had have been nothing short of incredible. It's something I'm definitely keen to do more of. There's something about shooting from the water, there are no distractions, everything slows down. It's peaceful. I still have a lot to learn, but ultimately, I'm driven more by the process than I am perfection.
2.Tell me where it all started, what or who inspired you to want to pick up a camera and get behind it. I can't remember a time when I haven't had access to a camera.
My parents always had one, they have boxes and albums full of memories from mine and my brother's childhood. I think it's just something that's slowly evolved - There have been periods where I've put my camera down and haven't picked it back up for years, but it's something that I always gravitate back to eventually.
3.Dream camera, unlimited budget what would it be or do you already have it!
I'm really not up to speed with all the latest and greatest gear, when it comes to camera specs and all of the technical jargon, anything other than megapixels goes well and truly over my head. I upgraded my camera the same time as getting the housing - I had to. My camera at the time (Canon 80D) was perfectly fine, but being an older model, Aquatech no longer produced housings for it. I've always used a Canon so opted to stick with them and went with the R5.
4.Tell us about an ocean photographer whose work inspires you, what do you like about their work?
Oh that's a hard one to answer. I'm inspired by so many, there's some serious talent out there in the ocean photography scene. I don't think you can really begin to appreciate the lengths (and depths) that some of them go to for the shot, until you've dipped your toes in and given it a go yourself.
5.Mentors or someone who has helped you greatly, encouraged you in your photography passion along the way
Clichè, but my family are 100% my biggest cheerleaders. I've really had to step outside my comfort zone a few times recently, they're always ready with words of encouragement and a nudge when I need it. Whenever I'm in the water they can be found on the beach with a few fishing rods, cooking up a bbq or just hanging out - They're always keen to tag along.
6. What's in your kit , send us a pic with a description of your gear and what’s your must have with you always accessory or extra bit of kit, favourite lens.
Camera, housing, sex wax & microfibre cloth, togs & rash vest and in the colder months my wetsuit ... an absolute must is the wax!! I've forgotten my wetsuit in winter and still taken the plunge, but forget the wax and I'm probably going home!
7. Tell us about a recent image you shot that you are really proud off and why?
I entered an image into the Natural Landscape awards last year. It was the first photography competition that I'd ever entered. It wasn't chosen as a winning image, but it was selected to feature in the photography book that the NLPA publish each year after the awards. The book showcases the most incredible and thought-provoking images that have been submitted to the competition. With more than 12,000 images entered, it was pretty epic to have mine selected. I'm quite proud of that!
