Arran Moran | Photographer | UK
Arran is a filmmaker and animator specialising in content focused around science, the natural world, and individuals dedicated to transforming our planet for the better.
Coming from a science communication background, he has always had an obsession with engaging audiences outside the typical environmental bubble with stories about the latest scientific and wildlife spectacles. This obsession combined with having very fortunately grown up in Bristol, the hub for natural history TV, Arran was drawn towards pursuing a career in wildlife filmmaking. Working as a researcher on natural history shows, it was only a matter of time before he became obsessed with the ocean environment, leading him to volunteer with The Marine Diaries on their Marine Ecosystem Diaries project.
Through this project and other films, Arran has developed his camera and self-taught animation skills with the aim of highlighting important issues facing our ocean and the incredible conservationists working to protect them.
When did you start your storytelling journey?
I started getting a lot more into photography and filmmaking whilst studying science communication in Bristol. The city is a hub for natural history TV so I've always been excited by the prospect of being involved in the production process some day.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
I can't say I have any specific memories but I've always had a natural curiosity for the natural world which has likely been backed up by always having pets in the family and copious hours of David Attenborough documentaries (as cliché as that sounds).
It wasn't until I finished university that I realised I could actually make a career out of my passion for nature. After finally being able to afford my first camera, my life essentially revolved around finding reasons to get outside.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I worked for a while at a warehouse putting together Dominoes pizza boxes (and getting great discounts!), then studied a degree in conservation biology followed by a masters in science communication, both in Bristol.
What/who currently inspires you?
I'm really inspired by the conservationists and researchers putting in so many hours out in the field, discovering species and uncovering incredible new behaviours. Without them, the incredible documentaries we watch on TV wouldn't be possible.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Increased diversity within the conservation sector.
Current Projects
I'm one of the OCL Storytelling Grant recipients, where I will be telling the story of a former female technical diver who's life took an unexpected turn at 60 meters below the surface. The film will follow her journey as she navigates the uncharted waters of disability. The aim being to highlight the changes to accessibility needed within the travel industry, to help underrepresented groups experience and appreciate blue spaces.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking, and that you'd like to recommend to other ocean lovers?
Into the Planet: My life as a cave diver (Jill Heinerth), Blue Machine (Helen Czerski), Deep (James Nestor), My Octopus Teacher, Chasing Coral and about fifty others.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I hope I can address important conservation messages with my films and as an added bonus, inspire at least one or two people to go out and do something positive for the planet.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an Ocean Storyteller?
Find friends who either love the oceans or just being outside as much as you do, start exploring with them, taking pictures and videos of your trips. The story ideas will keep coming as you bounce off each others enthusiasm and interests.
INSTAGRAM: @arranpmoran
WEBSITE: https://www.arranpmedia.com/
