We Are Water People: Exploring Shipwrecks with Captain Black Beard

Welcome to the latest installment of our "We Are Water People" blog series, where we have the privilege of interviewing individuals from near and far who have built their lives around their deep connection to the water. From diving enthusiasts to underwater photographers/videographers, we aim to explore the diverse and profound relationships people have with the aquatic world. Today, we are thrilled to introduce our second guest, none other than the enigmatic Black Beard, also known as Brendon Harris.

As we set sail on Black Beard's boat towards the mesmerizing depths of the HMAS Tobruk, a renowned shipwreck off the coast of Bundaberg, we couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of anticipation. Brandon's pseudonym, Black Beard, carries an air of intrigue and adventure that perfectly complements his captivating personality and unparalleled skills. We have long been avid followers of his work on Instagram, marveling at his macro shots from Barolin Rocks and being spellbound by his breathtaking captures of the shipwreck.

With each passing image, Black Beard has transported us to a world of wonder beneath the waves, where time seems to stand still and nature reveals its hidden treasures. It is with great excitement that we now have the opportunity to sit down with Brandon and delve into his extraordinary journey as an underwater explorer and photographer.

During our interview aboard the boat, surrounded by the vast expanse of the ocean and the echoes of history emanating from the sunken vessel, we aim to uncover the stories behind his love for the water, diving, and photography.

Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your love for the ocean started and how you started diving?

Answer: Yeah righto, so my name is Brendon Harris. I basically grew up on a boat, traveling around Australia. So I've always been around water. I started out free diving and spearfishing, and then moved on to scuba diving and then onto underwater photography.

Question: When did you discover your passion for underwater photography, and what motivated you to combine it with your diving experiences?

Answer: It was pretty much hand in hand. Once I started scuba diving, I almost started taking up photography straight away, initially with a basic GoPro. From there, I slowly gained more experience, built up my underwater camera system, and started practicing photography while diving.

Question: How has photography enhanced your connection with the ocean, and what inspired you to share it through your work?

Answer: I've always loved both, especially diving in places like Wolf Rock with the Grey Nurse Sharks. Seeing a hundred or so sharks cruising around, along with other stunning sights like manta rays, solidified my love for the ocean. Photography allows me to relive those experiences and share them with others.

Question: Are there any standout moments or encounters you've captured underwater that are particularly special to you?

Answer: I love them all, really. Every dive is different, and that's what I love about it. From encounters with Grey Nurse Sharks and Manta Rays to exploring shipwrecks, each subject has its own allure. I enjoy both capturing megafauna and diving into the intricate world of macro photography.

Question: Have there been any photographers or artists who significantly influenced your approach to photography?

Answer: So probably Nigel Marsh. I've done a photography course under him and he basically taught me to start simple without too much kit so I've been shooting with a single strobe, getting use to that first, before expanding my kit with a second strobe, without all the gear and no idea. I enjoy the work of many photographers and appreciate their unique styles.

Question: Could you share some of your favourite dive locations in Bundaberg or beyond and what makes them remarkable for underwater photography?

Answer: So my three favourites would have to be Wolf Rock, HMAS Tobruk and Lady Elliot Island. With Wolf Rock you have all the mega fauna there and the massive grey nurse sharks, manta rays, gropers as well as all the macro, leaf fish and nudibranchs. With the Tobruk the amount of turtles, as we've experienced on our dive today and with Lady Elliot Island you can’t beat those crystal clear waters and beautiful corals, plus all the manta rays that come through.

Question: Out of all the marine creatures are there any inparticular that you love to photograph and why?

Answer: I enjoy them all. They all have there ups and downs. Turtles are admittedly one of my favourites. Just their character and how easy they are to photograph. However, I’d have to say I love to photograph a lot of the mega fauna, macro as well, but I love it all really.

Question: You also shoot macro. What draws you to capturing the intricate details of marine life up close, and what are some of your favorite macro subjects?

Answer: Macro photography initially appealed to me as a cheaper way to get started, especially given the bad visibility we often have around the Bundy area. It allows me to get nice and close to subjects like nudibranchs, leaf fish, scorpion fish, and other fascinating fish. I adapt to the location and its unique offerings, whether it's exploring shipwrecks or diving in macro-rich environments.

Question: What are some challenges you face as an underwater photographer and diver, and how do you overcome them?

Answer: In our region, poor visibility and particles in the water are significant challenges. Overcoming these obstacles involves learning techniques to shoot with strobes and strategically positioning them to decrease backscatter. Persistence and adapting to the conditions play a crucial role.

Question: What do you find most rewarding about diving and capturing underwater scenes? Any particular moments that stand out?

Answer: As a photographer, it's about reliving and sharing those experiences. I enjoy capturing new creatures and witnessing their unique behaviors. One standout moment was photographing and naming the first Manta Ray I encountered. It was a special experience, and I named it after my sister's newborn child.

Question: What are your future goals and aspirations as an underwater photographer and diver?

Answer: My main aspiration is to travel more and experience different locations and marine life. I have a strong desire to go diving with Great White Sharks off the coast of South Australia and get up close. And yes, I plan to go with Rodney Fox.

Question: Is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers? Any message to fellow ocean lovers or inspiring underwater photographers?

Answer: You don't need the biggest or best kit to start. Just get out there and experience it. Once you take that first dive, you'll wonder why you didn't start earlier. The ocean has so much to offer, and it's a journey worth embarking on.

Sweet, so to find Black Beard's captivating work and follow his adventures, you can visit his Instagram page at BlackBeardDiving. Additionally, he has a YouTube channel where he shares videos, though it has slowed down as he focuses primarily on photography at Black Beard Diving. Also if you would like to check out Nigel Marsh you will find him on instagram at Nigel Marsh or head over to his website at https://www.nigelmarshphotography.com and to go on your own sharky dive with mega fauna book in with the guys at Wolf Rock Dive Centre located at Rainbow Beach at Wolf Rock Dive Centre.

As we ventured on our second successful dive onto the HMAS Tobruk, little did we know that an unexpected twist awaited us. In the midst of exploring the depths of the shipwreck, our engine suddenly failed, leaving us stranded 41 kilometers from shore. The situation was undoubtedly challenging, but it gave us ample time to engage in captivating conversations about diving and photography with Black Beard.

Amidst the stunning backdrop of the sun setting and the vast ocean surrounding us we had time to talk and reflect before being towed back in to land, I discovered Black Beard's unwavering passion for the underwater world. His love for diving and photography. And as we awaited rescue after our exhilarating 30-meter double dive, the experience added an extra layer of adventure and drama to our journey exploring ship wreck with black beard.

As we reflect on this remarkable day, filled with both excitement and unforeseen challenges, we eagerly anticipate future dives alongside Black Beard. Our time spent exploring the depths with him was nothing short of extraordinary, and we cannot wait to embark on new underwater adventures in the future.

Despite the engine failure and the unexpected turn of events, this journey was undeniably worth the adventure. It served as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment, to find beauty no matter where your feet are, and to embrace the vast wonders that the water has to offer.

With hearts full of gratitude and a profound appreciation for the sea, we bid farewell to this unforgettable experience. As we return to land, may we carry the spirit of exploration, the love for the ocean, and the thrill of capturing its essence through photography.

Until we dive again, may your own journeys be filled with the same sense of awe, discovery, and a deep connection to the water that unites us all.