From Lens to Line: Blending Graphics, Conservation, and the Sea

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the water. Growing up between Scotland and New Zealand, the sea has always been part of my heritage and my story. It’s more than a backdrop; it’s part of my DNA, connecting me to something ancient and unbreakable. This deep connection to the ocean led me on an unexpected path, blending creativity and conservation.

My professional journey took off in a slightly different direction, with a degree in Communication Design from the coastal city of Aberdeen, nestled in the northeast of Scotland. Despite the dark, dreich days of the north, I found something deeply inspiring in its rugged coastlines, ever-changing skies, and resilient communities. The journey from a design graduate to a Digital Engagement Officer at Open Seas has been both surprising and eye opening, where I now advocate for Scotland's marine ecosystems, translating intricate marine science and policies into visuals and stories that inspire change.

But photography and visual content are just one part of the equation. Design, branding, and storytelling form the backbone of what I do. They’re tools that help me celebrate peoples stories. From creating brand identities that communicate a mission to crafting content that can spark people’s thoughts. I love exploring the endless potential of visual language.

Through my work, I aim to show how these skills can bring visibility to important causes and make them memorable. I want people to see the richness of Scotland’s seas, the urgency of their preservation, and the potential for change in each story we tell. So, while I may not have planned this journey, I couldn’t imagine a better way to merge the world of design with a mission as meaningful as marine conservation.