Andrew Woodburn

Andrew Woodburn has been an accomplished photographer since his schooldays. After completing a degree in Chemical Engineering, Andrew renewed his focus on photography combining a passion for scuba diving with his talent in underwater photography. Andrew is the recipient of various accolades and awards including the Agfa and Fuji photographer of the year, first place in the Sodwana shootout and the prestigious international 2004 World Champion. Various international publications have featured Andrew’s work while in South Africa the likes of Divestyle, Travel Africa, Marie Claire and the Sunday Times have been quick to place his photographs.

“Having dived most commercial dive sites in South Africa many times there were three futures which needed to be selected from. Technical diving, underwater photography or a gradual decline to infrequent pleasure diving. I chose underwater photography and expanded into taking photos of what I saw underwater to others. The whole spectrum of creatures and water's unique effects with light, allow magical photographs to be captured in the last frontier on the planet, the oceans. I enjoy pushing the limits with models, activities and special effects.

I have specialized in wide angle imagery after seeing that most underwater photographers were developing skills in macro based imagery. I have identified unique and specialized species and places around South Africa, and more recently around the world to find and interact with big animals. Sharks, whales, and people in water are the current flavour for the basis of my work.

I explore photography of extreme sports and places… rock climbing and travel photography as well as dabbling in wildlife photography from time to time. My active participation across many activities allows me to catch imagery in an engaging and unique manner.

What currently keeps me busy is leading unique and adventurous expeditions to capture specialist images such as Tuna and Mako sharks, Tiger sharks and Whales. My preference is to lead workshops and travel tours rather than teach in a class room and in order help other photographers to achieve their goals and promote underwater conservation.”

Information courtesy of www.woodburnphoto.co.za