Conservation
Conservation
Being able to explore and experience wild places is a privilege - and with that comes a responsibility to protect them. Here's what I've done, what I'm doing, and what I plan to do.
How I work
I take a minimal-impact approach to how I photograph and film. I don't bait, touch or chase any animal. The best shots happen when you're patient and respect the animals - through that patience, you get to witness their wild, wonderful world.
What I've done
Over the years I've helped out on conservation projects on the water and on land. In 2021 I assisted with a leopard shark project in Indonesia with Thrive Conservation, and in 2023 I helped with a tiger shark research project in Saint Martin with Ocean Blue Tree. I also plant trees with my father, who founded and runs Kaitiakitanga Charitable Trust - over the years we've gathered thousands of native seeds, propagated them and planted them together.
What I do
Mostly the things available to anyone. I pick up rubbish when I find it. I've cut most single-use plastic out of my life. I recycle. I sign the petitions and I write the submissions when they matter. And I support groups doing the hard work, including Sea Legacy, who I met in French Polynesia.
What I plan to do
A share of what these prints earn will go toward protecting wild places - New Zealand's coast and land, and the ocean. Right now the store isn't open, so that's a promise.
What you can do
The simple version: next time you're outside, pick up three pieces of rubbish. Three pieces, every day, is more than most people manage in a year.
If you want to go further:
- Support a charity or group working to protect the environment.
- Sign petitions, or start your own.
- Get out and let the wildlife inspire you.
- Photograph it or film it, and use that to inspire others.
- Cut the plastics you can.
- Watch wildlife without touching it.