Jenna Tanner | Photographer | Hawaii
Jenna has always felt connected to the ocean, so when she began searching for a more ‘fulfilling’ lifestyle she knew exactly where to look.
Photo : Josh Munoz
Inspired by other change-makers, Jenna works hard using her storytelling ability to communicate the ways that humans are impacting the ocean, and the environment as a whole. Her work whole-heartedly reflects her love and respect for the ocean, and her commitment to her role in protecting and preserving it.
What is a typical day like for you?
There's no such thing as a typical day for me, which I love. When the ocean conditions are favorable for diving, I might be shooting photos close to shore, training for depth at a shipwreck or teaching a freediving class. On the days where I'm stuck on land, I'm usually editing photos or planning my next dive trip. If I'm particularly motivated, I'll do lung stretches and breath holds .
When did you first pick up a camera and start shooting underwater?
I've had a GoPro for years. Looking back on my early videos from my early generation GoPro is sometimes funny due to the quality difference. I finally committed to a REAL camera and underwater housing in early 2021.
Photo : Josh Munoz
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
My parents are both SCUBA divers and encouraged all of us kids to spend time in the ocean with them. My fondest memories are of our trips to the Caribbean where we'd spend the entire day exploring and playing in the ocean. I've been fascinated with the underwater world ever since.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
My path was somewhat typical of what society expected. I graduated and started working for a large-ish company. Later I moved to a big city and worked a lot in order to afford that kind of lifestyle. After almost ten years in sales, I really started wondering if that was how I wanted to spend the rest of my life - working a job that, while I didn't hate it, wasn't fulfilling.
Photo : Terry Flanagan
What do you value most in life?
The freedom to pursue my passions, and the deep connections I've made with other humans through our common love for the ocean.
What brings you the most joy?
Being in the ocean with wildlife, hands down.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
I would like to see corporations be held responsible for their actions. Using plastic pollution as an example, the companies producing the plastic need to be responsible for managing the entire life cycle of that plastic product. If we started holding corporations liable for the damage they're causing - oil spills, greenhouse gas emissions, fertilizer runoff, etc. - they'd be forced to find better, more sustainable ways of doing business.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
‘Blue Mind’, ‘The Story of Plastic’, ‘Chasing Coral’, ‘Deep’.
Who/what currently inspires you?
I'm inspired by changemakers. The ones who see a problem in the world and find a way to make a difference. We're all aware of the issues that our planet is facing but alot of us feel powerless to do anything to change it. The people that stand up, educate themselves and find a way to change things for the better, those people inspire me.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I hope that through my story I inspire others to spend time in the ocean or in nature. With time spent, they're bound to fall in love with our planet. Hopefully, some of those people will be moved to become changemakers in their own right.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Don't wait until you think you're ready, because you probably will never think you are. Take the first step and you'll learn as you go.
Photo : Drake Wallace
