Maxime Cheminade | Underwater Photographer | France
After discovering Scuba Diving in the military, Maxime was hooked to the underwater world. Since then, Max has gone on to document his journey to share his experience with a wider audience. He began chasing every opportunity to be in the water with his camera, and today he shoots commercial photography for international brands such as Camaro Watersports, Cressi, and Aqualung.
Currently, Max is working on a documentary about the biggest attempt at saving a reef using natural coral propagation. Soon, he’ll be travelling to Mexico to document shark research.
What is a typical day like for you?
My days tend to vary but almost always centre around shooting. I could be planning a new ocean documentary, or out in the blue with my gear somewhere.
When did you first start documenting your ocean story?
2014.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
I would definitely say, my grand father and his love of cinema and photography.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I entered the military, as a diver.
What do you value most in life?
The experiences I share with the people I love.
What brings you the most joy?
Being in the water.
Who/what currently inspires you?
The jetlagged, Dan Abott, Alice Cimino, Nikolai Deutsch, Florian Fisher.. and off course the ocean.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
That we stops seeing our world as an infinite resource, but we do things with the earth in mind. We need to live in harmony with nature.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
Blue Planet (1/2), Perfect Planet, Sea Spiracy, Sea of shadows...
What legacy do you hope to leave?
I hope that my films can help educate and show how beautiful our world is. That it's worth protecting it.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Dont get discouraged !
WEBSITE: www.maximecheminade.com
INSTAGRAM: @maxime_underwater
