Photographing the Ocean: The Stories Behind My Prints

The ocean has always had a way of captivating me. Its vastness, colour, and constant movement continue to inspire the way I see and photograph the world. Through my work, I aim to capture the quiet beauty of the ocean and the moments within it that often go unnoticed.

My photography isn’t just about taking images, it’s about telling stories. Each print represents a moment in time, a feeling, or a connection to nature that I’ve experienced firsthand.

In this post, I’ll share what inspires my photography, the themes that shape my work, and how you can bring a piece of the ocean into your own space.

The Inspiration Behind the Lens

My inspiration comes from a lifelong connection to the ocean. Growing up near the coast shaped my appreciation for marine life and coastal landscapes, and that relationship with the sea continues to influence everything I photograph.

My work often focuses on the shifting blues of the ocean, the subtle textures beneath the surface, and the movement and energy found along the coastline. Each image reflects moments of beauty that exist both above and below the water, often unnoticed unless you take the time to look.

I spend countless hours exploring different coastal locations, waiting for the right conditions and the right moment to capture what I see. That patience and connection to place are what define my approach and set my work apart.

Themes in my Photography

Marine Life & Whales

Marine life sits at the heart of my photography, with a strong focus on whales. Their scale, intelligence, and calm presence in the water never fails to leave an impression. Each encounter feels rare, and capturing these moments is about patience, respect, and being present when it happens.

Rare Encounters

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to photograph some truly special individuals, including Siale, the albino humpback whale born in Tonga in 2024. Moments like this are once-in-a-lifetime, and having that image available as a print is something I’m deeply grateful for. These photographs represent not just rarity, but the fragility and resilience of life in our oceans.

Connection & Scale

Many of my images explore the relationship between scale and stillness. From vast open water to the quiet presence of a single animal, these moments highlight how small we are in comparison, and how powerful that perspective can be.

Landscapes of New South Wales

Alongside marine life, landscapes form an important part of my work. I’m curating a collection of coastal and natural scenes from across New South Wales, chosen for their simplicity, calm, and sense of place. These images are created to live on the wall, grounding, timeless, and deeply connected to the environments that inspire them.

The Process of Creating Stunning Prints

Creating a finished photography print involves far more than simply taking a photograph. Each piece goes through a considered process to ensure it reflects the moment and maintains the highest possible quality:

1. Location Scouting: I spend time researching and visiting various coastal locations. I look for unique landscapes or vibrant marine life.

   
   

2. Timing: The right lighting can make or break a photograph. I often shoot during golden hour, when the sun is low in the sky, to capture the best colours.

   
   

3. Editing: After capturing the images, enhance colours, adjust contrast, and ensure the final print reflects my vision

   
   

4. Printing: I use only high-quality materials from Australia for my prints. This ensures that the colours remain vibrant and the details are sharp for years to come.

   
   

This attention to detail is what makes my photography prints stand out in a crowded market.

Bringing Oceanic Beauty into Your Home

If you’re looking to bring a sense of the ocean into your home, my photography prints are designed to work across a range of spaces and styles. A few simple considerations can help you get the most out of each piece.

• Choose the Right Size

Think about the wall where the print will live. Larger pieces can anchor a room and create a strong focal point, while smaller works can be grouped together for a more curated, gallery-style feel.

• Work With Your Space

Consider the colours and mood of your existing décor. My prints range from bold and vibrant to soft and minimal, making it easier to find something that complements your space rather than competes with it.

• Build a Theme

If you’re drawn to the ocean, layering prints with subtle coastal elements can create a cohesive and relaxed atmosphere without feeling overly styled.

• Consider the Light

Lighting can dramatically change how a print feels. Natural light or soft, directional lighting can enhance tone, texture, and detail without overwhelming the image.

By thoughtfully incorporating my photography into your home, you can create a serene and inviting atmosphere that reflects your love for the ocean.

The Impact of Oceanic Photography

Photography has the ability to evoke emotion and encourage reflection, and that is something I aim to carry through my ocean-focused work. My prints are created not only to highlight the beauty of the sea, but to remind us of its vulnerability and the importance of protecting it.

When these images are displayed in people’s homes, they often become conversation starters, moments that invite discussion about marine life, conservation, and our relationship with the ocean. Each piece serves as a quiet reminder of the delicate balance that exists beneath the surface.

By choosing to support my work, you are also supporting a broader message of ocean awareness and conservation. I hope my photography encourages a deeper appreciation for the sea and inspires thoughtful action to help protect it for future generations.

A Closer Look at Scott Robert's Most Popular Prints

I have a diverse collection of prints, each with its own unique charm. Here are a few of my favourite pieces:

• "Small In A Big Blue ": Capturing a southern right whale mother and her calf moving quietly through vast blue waters. The simplicity of the scene and the sense of scale create a calm, contemplative piece that brings stillness and depth to any space.

  

  
  

• "Veil Of Blue": Capturing a humpback whale suspended within deep blue waters off Redhead, New South Wales. Soft light and subtle texture reveal a calm, enduring presence beneath the surface, offering a quiet moment of stillness within the vastness of the ocean.

  

  
  

• "Golden Silence": Capturing a humpback whale breaching beneath a soft golden sky, suspended between sea and light. The stillness of dawn tempers the power of the moment, creating a calm, luminous image that brings warmth, presence, and quiet strength into any space.

  

  
  

Each of these prints tells a story and invites viewers to connect with the ocean in a meaningful way.

How to Care for Your Photography Prints

Once you have chosen your favourite print, it is essential to care for it properly. Here are some tips to ensure your print remains in excellent condition:

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade colours over time. Hang your print in a location that receives indirect light.

  
  

• Use Acid-Free Materials: If you frame your print, use acid-free mats and backing to prevent damage.

  
  

• Clean Gently: Dust your print regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they can damage the print.

  
  

By following these care tips, you can enjoy your Scott Robert photography print for years to come.

The Journey of an Ocean Photographer

My journey as a photographer began simply, capturing moments by the ocean during family trips and time spent along the coast. What started as a hobby gradually grew into something more, driven by a deepening connection to the sea and a desire to tell its stories through imagery.

The path hasn’t always been straightforward. Building a portfolio, finding the right equipment, and establishing a clear identity all came with challenges. Through it all, my love for the ocean remained the constant that kept me moving forward and shaping the work I create today.

Join the Oceanic Movement

If my work resonates with you, I encourage you to take part in protecting the oceans that inspire it. There are simple ways we can all contribute.

Support Conservation Efforts

Many organisations dedicate their time to protecting marine life and habitats. Whether through donating or volunteering, their work plays a vital role.

Reduce Plastic Use

Plastic pollution remains one of the greatest threats to our oceans. Small changes in daily habits can have a meaningful impact on marine ecosystems.

Share Awareness

Sharing ocean imagery and stories helps build appreciation and understanding. The more people who connect with the sea, the more likely it is to be protected.

Even small actions, when taken together, can make a real difference in the health of our oceans.

Final Thoughts on Oceanic Beauty

My photography prints are more than visual pieces; they are a celebration of the ocean and an invitation to connect with it more deeply. Bringing one into your home is not just about filling a space, but about carrying a sense of the sea into everyday life.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant life beneath the surface or the calm of open water, my collection offers something for those who feel connected to the ocean. Each piece is created to resonate on a personal level.

Every print tells a story, and each story has the potential to inspire awareness and care. I hope these images allow the ocean’s beauty to live not only on your walls, but in your thoughts as well.