Gillian Shark

I’m a self-taught photographer who learned photography by reading about photography techniques and then trying everything out in a trial and error process.

I don’t remember it exactly but I believe it was either a picture of flowers, landscape or my pet.

I’ve just recently changed my Olympus camera set up to a Sony. In addition to the camera I use an underwater housing but no strobes as I prefer using natural light.

The aim of my photography is to offer people access to a different world they might not have been able to dive into (quite literally). Also, I would like to clear up some of the many misconceptions that exist about these amazing animals and educate people about the importance of sharks for our ecosystem.

For me the most beautiful compliment I’ve received was that a couple of people told me that thanks to my photography they have overcome their fear of sharks and that it has sparked an interest.

First of all the incredible animals I’m fortunate enough to photograph: sharks.
But also how many people are afraid of sharks just because of the way how the media portrays them and that in fact sharks are rather shy, interesting and simply amazing animals. I wish more people could recognise that and maybe see them through my eyes.

Calm, expressive, immersive

Thank you! It means so much to me and I’m incredibly honoured to have received the platinum award.

I chose to submit the picture “Caribbean Reef Shark Blending In” because even though there is a lot going on with the school of fish on the side, this picture somehow emanates some kind of calmness.
It was taken during a dive at Tiger Beach, Bahamas.

After having received the jury prize for my picture “Lemon Shark Yin and Yang” at the Swiss Photo Club photography competition in March 2021, a popular Swiss magazine, a newspaper and even Swiss national TV wanted to interview me and know more about my shark photography and my passion. This was incredible and so unexpected! Later that year National Geographic Germany featured me online as one of the newcomers in underwater photography.
This year I’ve decided to submit my pictures to several photography competitions and I’m super excited and grateful for what has happened so far!

Matt Draper, Mike Coots, Alex Kydd

Just give it a try and don’t be discouraged if sometimes pictures don’t work out the way you imagined them to. Also, you don’t need an expensive camera to start your photography journey either. Have fun playing around with different settings and don’t forget to enjoy the moment.
I often put the camera down when I’m diving in order to just enjoy the incredible nature and animals that surround me.

I’m just very passionate about sharks and raising awareness through my photography and luckily some people find that interesting and have reached out to me because of that. I love spreading my message and hope I can help sharks and inspire other people by doing so.

I really enjoy learning new things and expanding my knowledge.

Thank you for this opportunity!