Each photo shot by Cresswellwho fittingly describes himself as a visual artistexhibits his artistic approach to underwater photography.
We recently had the opportunity to speak to Jem aboutGiants.
To learn more about the inspiration, process, and intent behind the series, read our interview below.
Giants #2
Giants #1
What inspired you to pursue underwater photography?
I have always had a camera in hand, for as long as I can remember.
This sense of escape and freedom grew my love of the ocean.
Giants #1
That feeling grew into a sense of intrigue and awe of life below the surface.
There is so much to learn and be discovered about the creatures that exist below.
This fuels my desire to see more, create more images and share the experience.
Giants #3
In your series,Giants, you capture intimate photographs of humpback whales.
What first prompted you to study these creatures?
Giants #3
Can you describe the process behind capturing these underwater portraits?
Giants #4
We only swim with certain whales; snorkelling/free diving with them (no scuba).
Humpback whales interact with many different marine creatures over their lifetime.
Many a time, a curious whale will come over for a closer look.
Giants #5
Encounters may last from a few minutes, to a few hours.
I hope the short behind the scenes video (below) will give more insight to the process.
Giants #4
The stunning series is rendered in black and white.
Giants #6
What influenced this aesthetic decision?
Prior to 2014the year you first followed the whales migration to Tongadid you have any experience photographing animals?
Are there any other species youd like to document?
Form
Has knowledge of this discovery influenced the way you photograph them?
The scientific report definitely influenced the way I photographed them.
How has your perception of whales (or even animals in general) changed since you began the project?
Working on this project I had many overwhelming experiences.
Giants #6
We love the series, and cant wait to see more from you in the future.
Do you plan to continueGiants?
Do you have any other projects in the works?
I will definitely revisit Giants at a later stage.
I’m currently focused on a new body of work from Australias Great Barrier Reef.
Lastly, the quality of your work is superb!
What camera and equipment do you use?
