From coral husbandry and marine conservation to underwater photography and documentary filmmaking, Hamish’s work is driven by a passion for the natural world. In this Q&A, Hamish shares his journey, creative projects, and the experiences that fuel his commitment to conservation.
Meet the Creative: Hamish
Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do?
I’m an aquatic technician, primarily specialising in coral husbandry for private collections. My work revolves around caring for and maintaining marine ecosystems, particularly corals, which are some of the most fascinating and important organisms in our oceans.
Outside of my professional role, I’m a nature enthusiast in every sense of the word. I’ve always been fascinated by wildlife and the natural world, and much of what I do—whether through conservation, photography, filmmaking, or education—is driven by that passion.
Effortlessly gliding above the coral reefs of the Red Sea. On one breath, this freediver hovers in the blue. All Image Rights Owned by Hamish @coastaldruid.
What role does conservation play in your work?
Conservation is at the heart of everything I do. Alongside my professional work, I volunteer at London Zoo within the Ectotherm Department, where I focus on marine fish and corals. It’s a fantastic opportunity to contribute to education and conservation efforts while working alongside people who share the same passion for wildlife.
I’m also heavily involved in science communication. I currently manage my workplace’s social media channels and have previously worked with other organisations to help promote ocean conservation and environmental awareness. Making science accessible and engaging is incredibly important to me, particularly when it comes to encouraging people to care about marine ecosystems.
While I was living in Egypt I had the opportunity to learn about astronomy from Egypt’s “Bedouin People”. This photo is made up of more than 100 photos over 1 hour, pointed towards the North Star. All Image Rights Owned By Hamish aka @coastaldruid
How did you become interested in wildlife photography?
Photography has always been a natural extension of my love for wildlife. I specialise in marine environments and underwater photography, capturing species and habitats that many people never get the chance to see for themselves.
One of the highlights of my career was working in Egypt at a PADI Five Star Eco Dive Resort, where I spent time documenting marine life in the Red Sea. Since then, I’ve entered several photography competitions. While I haven’t won any major awards yet, I’ve been fortunate enough to receive prizes for my work, which has been incredibly encouraging.
Whilst I was trying to film animals on the house reef. Dive buddy and fellow underwater photographer Shannon Moran took this photo of me in the shallows at my old job in Marisa Alan, Egypt. All Image Rights Owned By Shannon Moran / Hamish @coastaldruid.
What draws you to photographing underwater environments?
The underwater world feels like another planet. It’s filled with extraordinary colours, behaviours, and ecosystems that are often hidden from everyday life.
Photography allows me to share these experiences with others and highlight the beauty and fragility of marine environments. I hope that by showcasing these habitats, people develop a greater appreciation for the need to protect them.
During my studies my course offered a trip to the Red Sea. My only diving experience was in the UK at this point so I was very excited for this opportunity. Week 2 of the trip, while heading to photograph sea turtles this dugong appeared out of nowhere. To this day my favourite underwater experience. All Image Rights Owned By Hamish @coastaldruid
You’re also involved in filmmaking. Can you tell us more about that?
I’m a self-funded documentary filmmaker and have produced two documentaries so far. One explored the world of foraging, while the other focused on surfing and mental health.
At the moment, I’m in pre-production on a new documentary centred around a fascinating marine species found in UK waters. It’s a project I’m particularly excited about because it combines my interests in marine conservation, storytelling, and education.
What inspires your documentary work?
I’m drawn to stories that connect people with nature. Whether it’s foraging, surfing, or marine wildlife, I’m interested in exploring the relationship between humans and the natural world.
Film is a powerful tool for education and conservation. It allows people to experience places, species, and perspectives they may never encounter otherwise, and hopefully inspires them to care more deeply about the environment.
Off the coast of South Cornwall near Lamorna Cove, whilst snorkelling I was very fortunate to run into a very friendly, but curious seal. At first it was a bit intimidating, being the same size as me. But was a very pleasant encounter from one of our native sea mammals. All Image Rights Owned By Hamish aka @coastaldruid.
You’ve also worked as an underwater camera operator. What has that experience been like?
Working as a freelance underwater camera operator has given me the opportunity to contribute to a variety of creative projects.
One of the most interesting projects I’ve worked on was The Bird Watcher, an independent cosmic horror film. Bringing underwater cinematography into a fictional narrative was a completely different challenge from documentary work, and it was exciting to apply my skills in a new creative context.
Diving on the south side of the house reef in Egypt. Out of the reef this turtle suddenly appeared. Swimming right over me heading to the surface. All Image Rights Owned By Hamish aka @coastaldruid.
What do you hope people take away from your work?
Whether through photography, filmmaking, science communication, or conservation, my goal is always the same: to help people connect with the natural world.
The ocean is home to incredible biodiversity, yet so much of it remains unseen and misunderstood. If my work can encourage even a few people to appreciate, explore, and ultimately protect marine environments, then I’ve achieved something meaningful.
Thankyou to Hamish for taking the time to answer Forager’s questions! Keep up to date with Hamish’s adventures over on his instagram account at : @coastaldruid .
