Mert Gökalp | Underwater Photographer | Turkey / Israel
Since recently completed his PhD. from the Marine Ecology Department of Wageningen University of Netherlands, Mert has worked on 3 European Union Projects around the sustainable use of marine resources, as well as various advertisement projects globally such as script writer, photographer, DOP and UW cameraman.
In 2011 he published a guidebook for marine species of Turkish waters from Inkilap Publishing and produced a Marine Nature Guide (Doga Rehberi- 550 marine species) a smart phone application to identify marine species of the Mediterranean Sea. Now, he is a freelance photographer/videographer and documentary marker, with plenty of projects in the works at all times.
What is a typical day like for you?
diving/underwater/research/filmmaking.
When did you first start documenting your ocean story?
2005-2006.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
University underwater society entrance.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
Marine science.
What do you value most in life?
Science.
What brings you the most joy?
Finishing a documentary / publishing a book.
Who/what currently inspires you?
Aristotales / Pliny / Oppianus / Karekin Deveciyan.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Human beings.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
Baraka Doc. / Le Grand Blue / Abyss.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
Books & films.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Forget about obstacles and negative comments
VIMEO: www.vimeo.com
INSTAGRAM: @mertgokalp
