a conversation with Harry Stamatov
Immersed in sea
Harry Stamatov, a photographer based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, brings us into his world through a unique lens—one that captures not just images but moments of deep personal significance. His latest photographic journal, a collection of black-and-white underwater shots, speaks to his intimate relationship with the ocean and the way it shapes both his art and life.
Harry's life has always been intertwined with the coast. Growing up in a small coastal village in the UK and now living on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, the ocean has been a constant source of solace and inspiration. “I feel very at home and at peace by the ocean,” Harry reflects. This connection is not just a backdrop to his work but a central element of his creative process and personal well-being.
His latest project, featuring images captured with a Nikon V underwater camera, is a testament to this bond. Harry's goal was to explore water in its most elemental form—submerged and dynamic. “Shooting water and the ocean as a subject can be so diverse,” he explains. His photographs capture the raw beauty and textures of water, reflecting the peaceful yet powerful nature of the sea.
The collection is deeply personal, documenting not only the landscapes and environments but also the intimate moments shared with friends. “My main goal for shooting this roll of film was more of a day in the life of what me and my friends get up to,” Harry says. The images depict simple joys and treasured memories, offering a glimpse into the camaraderie and freedom he experiences in these coastal spaces.
For Harry, the project also carries a layer of sentimentality. The Nikonos V, the camera he used for these images, was a cherished tool that ceased functioning shortly after the photos were taken. “I was so worried that the moments I shot on this camera were going to be lost,” he admits. The relief and satisfaction he felt upon rescuing and seeing the film develop add emotional weight to the collection, making each image a poignant reminder of both the joys and challenges of his creative journey.
Harry’s approach often incorporates human subjects within natural settings, adding context and depth to his work. “I feel it gives more context to the environment I’m shooting and how we interact with it as humans,” he explains. This focus on the human-environment relationship allows viewers to appreciate not just the beauty of the landscapes but also the personal experiences and connections that define Harry’s work.
Looking ahead, Harry is excited about continuing his exploration of water photography. His future plans include investing in underwater housing for his digital camera, which will offer even more creative possibilities. “Shooting digital leaves more room for trial and error and creativity,” he says, envisioning projects that could take him to new and inspiring locations, both in Australia and beyond.
Harry Stamatov’s latest photographic journal is a celebration of his coastal lifestyle and deep emotional ties to the ocean. Through his images, he invites us to experience the beauty of water and the profound personal connections it fosters. Each photograph is a reflection of his life and artistry, capturing fleeting moments of joy and tranquillity in the ever-changing landscape of the sea.
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