Thomas P. Peschak: Photos of the Ocean’s Soul

Thomas P. Peschak was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1975 and began his career as a marine biologist, earning a PhD from the University of Cape Town in 2004. That same year, he joined National Geographic, marking the start of his photography journey. He has since risen to prominence as a conservation photographer, blending science and art to advocate for ocean preservation. His work is defined by vibrant colours—like ocean blues and coral reds—and a reliance on natural light, bringing marine ecosystems to life. Peschak’s images reveal both the beauty and vulnerability of underwater worlds, making him a key voice in environmental storytelling.

Primary Genres: Underwater Photography, Conservation Photography
Primary Photography Style: Documentary (naturalistic, immersive) – Uses vibrant colours and natural light to capture marine life authentically in its habitat.
Key Message: Through his photography, Peschak aims to inspire ocean conservation by highlighting the stunning beauty and delicate balance of marine ecosystems, urging viewers to protect them.

Peschak’s lens often focuses on marine subjects like whales, sharks, and coral reefs, showcasing their natural environments with a vivid aesthetic. His images burst with colour—think deep blues, bright reds, and earthy browns—while textures like swirling waves or kelp fronds add depth.

He shoots with a Nikon D850 in underwater housing, paired with wide-angle lenses like a 16mm fisheye for expansive scenes. Relying on natural light, he avoids strobes, using fast shutter speeds (around 1/500s) to freeze motion handheld. In editing, he uses Lightroom to boost vibrancy and fine-tune colours, keeping contrast natural for an immersive yet realistic feel. His work shines in large prints (up to 40×60 inches), National Geographic features, and his 2021 book Wild Seas, amplifying his conservation message.

For intermediate photographers, Peschak’s style is a masterclass in harnessing natural light in tough settings like underwater. His digital approach—unlike film—offers flexibility with ISO and instant feedback, vital for low-light and fast-moving subjects. This adaptability lets him capture fleeting moments, teaching learners the value of quick adjustments over rigid setups. His minimal editing reinforces a respect for the subject’s authenticity, pushing photographers to focus on in-camera craft.

Accolades:
- Winner, BBC Natural World Awards (2009)
- World Press Photo awards, Nature Stories category (2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018)
- Recognised by National Geographic for conservation impact

Trivia:
- Logged over 1,000 hours diving.
- Captivated by whale calls.
- Photographed sharks up close in their habitats.
- Actively supports ocean conservation initiatives.

Lessons from this Photographer:

Peschak’s work highlights the power of patience and environmental awareness, using natural light to tell authentic stories. His fast shutter speeds and wide-angle techniques are practical for dynamic scenes, encouraging photographers to adapt to their surroundings. By keeping post-processing light, he inspires a focus on capturing the moment as it is, fostering respect for the subject. Intermediate shooters can experiment with these methods to build storytelling skills and deepen their appreciation for nature’s narrative.