UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY
Meaghan Ogilvie
Underwater photography has not only defined my career but has profoundly shaped my identity and beliefs. It all started with an old 35mm film camera my mom bought for me on my fourteenth birthday. That camera became my companion, helping me overcome my shyness and giving me a sense of purpose. Over time, my passion for photography grew, and specializing in underwater photography challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. I used to be afraid of open water, but now, as an advanced diver, I find myself 27 meters below the surface, swimming alongside sharks in strong currents. The ocean has now become my sanctuary and I have learned to embrace the unknown. My work has allowed me to explore the world, from the coral-rich waters of Raja Ampat to documenting environmental projects like the Seabin Project, which heightened my awareness of marine conservation.
My relationship with water deepened during the Requiem of Water project for the 2015 Pan-Am Games. Collaborating with Indigenous artists and communities changed how I see water. No longer just a resource, I now view water as a living, thriving entity that sustains us all. This realization has made me more conscious of how our actions impact the planet. Traveling for work has also opened my mind to the beauty of cultural diversity, and the connections I’ve made with people — like the sailing crew aboard Diatomée in the Caribbean — have enriched my life. Underwater photography keeps me curious, courageous, and always in search of new ways to connect with the world, both above and below the surface.
This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 20.