phoblography

My creativity always comes at the most inappropriate of times. But when I get an idea, I can’t concentrate or think about anything else.

Over the past two years, photography has become a huge part of my life. This obsession began when I picked up a photography course in year 11, just to fill in time and balance my academic and creative mind. I am now at the end of year 12, currently doing three lines of photography and intend to pursue this interest at university next year – I love it!

With this passion, I also share an enthusiastic interest in travel. Not only travelling to exotic places, but also reading and writing travel literature. I aspire to one day build a career based on these twin passions, becoming a photojournalist and professional marine photographer. Documenting the changing underwater world, I seek to give a voice to marine life and uncover hidden layers of coral reef that few get to experience. As a qualified scuba diver, I have had the privilege to visit such places on several occasions. My first diving experience, back in 2008, took place in Fiji and inspired me to follow this unusual path in life. Blown away by the vibrant colours and diverse and vivacious marine life, I was inspired to make such experiences part of my everyday life.

 My personal challenge is to redefine photographic boundaries; underwater as well as on land. I also hope to create thought-provoking images that linger in people’s minds, encouraging them to observe the world around them more closely. I am inspired by the work of David Doubilet, a world-wide recognised marine photographer; as well as the work of many photographers in other areas – James Nachtwey and Steve McCurry (war photojournalists), Richard Avedon (fashion), Trent Park and Narelle Autio (art), Elliot Erwitt (humanist), Richard I’Anson (travel) etc. I’m influenced not only by these brilliant artists, but also by current world issues and how they affect the people in my life.

Much like a visual-art process diary, I will use this blog to communicate my thoughts and feelings towards contemporary photography and culture. I will express my personal opinions to the work of others through written and practical response.