My name’s Hamish Lorne. I’m an ocean conservationist, wildlife photographer and fish nerd. I’ve always had a strong connection towards the natural world, from going out seeing what lives in the local rivers to binge watching Steve Irwin. When I was a child, I was heavily focused on herpetology, but in my late teens, my interests shifted towards the ocean, and that’s where I’ve stayed ever since.

Before university, I studied animal management at Berkshire College of Agriculture. During my time here, I got to experience a lot of hands on work with an array of different species, as well as getting a better grasp of biology. After College, I worked as a fish house technician, that role gave me a solid understanding of marine fish and coral care, and really helped build my skills in species identification and husbandry, something that’s become a valuable part of my work in photography.

I went on to study Marine and Natural History Photography at Falmouth University. While I was there, I produced two documentaries. One explored coastal foraging and our relationship with the shoreline, and the other focused on the mental health benefits of ocean therapy, following the story of a local surfer.

After graduating, I spent a few months in Egypt working as the resident photographer and videographer for Red Sea Diving Safari. Being based on such vibrant reefs gave me the chance to document marine life in a unique and constantly changing environment.

I’m currently volunteering with ZSL London in their aquarium and coral department, supporting their work in coral husbandry and conservation. Alongside this, I work as an aquatic engineer, which allows me to stay close to the marine systems I care about, while continuing to build on my technical and environmental knowledge.

At the moment, I’m developing my own self funded documentary and a number of other ocean focused projects that are still in early stages. Looking ahead, my aim is to complete a master’s degree and keep pushing forward with conservation and storytelling. My long term goal is to help raise awareness of our oceans and the life they support through creative and meaningful work.