Brandan Webb | East Coast Australia
Brandan grew up on Vancouver Island Canada, surrounded by the ocean and the coastal forests of British Columbia before coming over to Australia’s east coast. Always having a strong connection to the ocean has played a huge role in the content that Branden creates today.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
After leaving school I decided to take a path or forestry work, specifically reforestation work (planting trees) I went on to plant over 1.2 million plants myself over the years, but the body can only handle this sort of lifestyle for so long. I have always been inspired by wildlife photography and filmmaking, so 10 years ago I decided I would give it a go and I picked up a cheap DSLR. At first, I was just taking photos of everything and anything, learning the craft and deciding what interests me the most. A little over 5 years ago I bought my first underwater housing and started learning how to photograph/film underwater, as many people know it's a whole different cup of tea!
Last year during the global pandemic I decided to take the plunge, quit my full-time job and pursue a life of underwater filmmaking! I haven't looked back since
What/who currently inspires you?
Oh, this is a very tricky question, but Paul Nicklen, Roger Horrocks, David Wright and Roger Deakins to name a few.
What do you value most in life?
I really value my freedom and doing what makes me happy. I see way too many people get into jobs where they hate it every day. That's not the kind of person I am. I have been down that path in the past and that's no way to live!
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Hopefully, my imagery will show people how beautiful the underwater world is. The world seems to ignore the fact that the little things have a massive impact. so many things nowadays are double or triple wrapped in plastic and everyone seems to think that the rubbish they throw away magically disappears. I would love to see this practice of "everything needs to be wrapped in plastic", abolished.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
yes, so many! Blackfish, A Plastic Ocean, chasing coral and every David Attenborough doco to name a few!
What brings you the most joy?
Envisioning a shot in my mind and going out and making it happen.
Also, puppies.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
This sounds a bit corny, but I do truly believe you can really do anything if you try hard enough. If you want something bad enough and you work for it, it's possible! My plan is it get into the more conservation end of filmmaking and hopefully shed some light on delicate topics. Ive had struggles with mental health for most of my life and its certainly something that is close to my heart. If I could help just one person get out of a dark place, I would do anything to try and help.
