Fabian Guggenberger | Underwater Photographer & Videographer | Austria | Indonesia
Fabian is a biologist and marine life videographer from Austria based in Lombok/Indonesia. With his attention to detail, Fabian can be seen capturing the smallest of marine creatures to deeper pelagic species and everything in between, including capturing the infamous Raja Ampat Epaulette Shark, known for using its fins to "walk" along the bottom of the ocean floor.
We can’t help but fall in love with Fabian’s work, and we look forward to seeing his next short documentary marine life film.
When did you first start your storytelling journey?
In November 2018.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
Realising that doing what I like is more important than my former professional career in oncological science. I started diving in late 2018 and immediately knew that I wanted this to be part of my daily life. Since then, I have done some videography projects on land before it was a logical consequence to combine both activities.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I worked as a social worker and studied. I have achieved a BSc in Environmental Engineering, MSc in Biotechnology, and a PhD in Molecular Oncology.
What/who currently inspires you?
Anybody with visions and a strong passion for what they are doing.
What current projects/stories are you working on?
I'm working on a short documentary film about marine life using impressions I recorded on my adventures over the last two years.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking, and that you'd like to recommend to other ocean lovers?
Documentaries:
A Life on Earth (2020)
Animals Are Beautiful People (1974)
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Educating people about the consequences of their actions.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
No legacy! Since I was a child I was fascinated by everything that lives and moves in the water. By filming my videos now, I hope to bring the wonders of the blue to the people. Humans always need a reason to change their behaviour and by showing them the beauty they would usually never see, I believe that I can increase their motivation to do so.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an Ocean Storyteller?
Have a plan, work hard for it and never stop learning. The difference between a basic life and living your dream is not that the dream isn't exhausting. In the end, you will probably work even more than before (and earn less). However, since you follow your passion it will be much more fulfilling and you will have much more energy to do it.
At the end of every single day, you can watch your own reflection in a mirror! The only question that remains is: “Do you like what you see?”
INSTAGRAM: @fab.aroundtheglobe
