Wild Cape in Focus: Meet Ocean Photographer Andrew Semark
Introducing Andrew Semark – the incredible photographer behind the raw and powerful Wild Cape labels and an Evans & Tate ambassador.
We speak to him about all things South West WA, ocean photography and what Wild Cape really means to him.
How did you first get into ocean art photography?
I have been lucky enough to grow up along the coast in the South West of WA. I started out shooting film on my parent’s camera at a young age. I eventually combined my love for surfing and photography and I haven’t looked back.
Was there a particular moment or memory when you realised that this was your passion?
I remember one of my first trips chasing a swell during winter. It was an incredible experience. I remember one particular wave that resonated with me and in that moment, I realised this is what I wanted to do.
What do you love the most about the WA coast?
West Australian diversity is what I love the most, from the rugged pristine coastline of the South to the red dirt desert that greats the sea up north. There is no shortage of unique places to photograph.
Do you have a favourite spot in the South West to shoot?
There really is no place like home. Since I was a little kid, I had the opportunity to explore the amazing South West coastline, learning everything about this little stretch of coast that changes with each season. It really is paradise.
What is your favourite beach/es in the South West to park up for the afternoon and enjoy a glass of Sauvignon Blanc?
My favourite beach to enjoy a drink is at Injidup. Between Wyadup and Injidup is a small gravel carpark that has the most incredible zone to enjoy the coastline. Another good spot is the 'Other Side of the Moon' surf break at the tip of Cape Naturaliste.
Where's the best place in the South West to catch the sunset over the water with a glass of Chardonnay in hand?
It would have to be Sugarloaf Rock. Always a spectacular view. Another good spot is just before Canal Rocks, on the hill before you reach the bottom, is a small carpark that opens up to show the whole Yallingup coastline.
Where do you like to enjoy a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon?
You can’t go wrong with a glass of Cab Sav besides the firepit after day on the ocean.
Can you describe the feeling you get when you’re inside a breaking wave lining up your shot and looking straight down the barrel?
It is really hard to put into words, there are so many moments within moments when capturing images in the ocean. Everything from positioning, timing and all the natural elements that present themselves while composing an image. One thing I do know is that feeling I get never gets old, its always enjoyable.
Is there a particular moment that has stood out as a career highlight for you?
A career highlight for me was having the opportunity to be director of photography for the feature surfing documentary Facing Monsters. Then being able to publish my first book off the back was an amazing experience. Getting to utilise the skills I developed over the years to create a book I’m super proud of.
If you could use three words to describe each of the Wild Cape photos, what would they be?
Void (Sauvignon Blanc): Force, rare & relentlessness
Glimmer (Chardonnay): Power, beauty & chaos
Green Glow (Cabernet Sauvignon): Light, dreamy & unique
Do you have a favourite time of the day or type of lighting to be shooting?
My absolute favourite time is last light, the west coast comes to life in the final stages of the day.
Have you experienced any scary moments when the weather or swell has turned on you while you’re out there?
I have had a few moments where I have been quickly humbled from near drownings to being lost at sea. The ocean has always taught me to have a healthy respect for the environment I work in.
What does Wild Cape mean to you? How do the wines relate to the Wild Cape photos (labels)?
I really believe that Wild Cape encapsulates the very essence of what I photograph. Although wild, there is so much beauty within these moments.
Are there any waves or locations you would like to shoot that you haven’t already?
I have a looooong list of waves I really want to capture; Tahiti is high on the list.
What are you up to when you’re not taking photos?
I share this life with a beautiful wife and two amazing kids. My kids have developed a strong connection to the ocean (might have been some encouragement on my behalf). We love to surf, dive and just enjoy the environment that has blessed us with so much.
Do you have any words of wisdom for budding wave photographers out there?
Enjoy the process. It's a journey and every image you capture is an opportunity to create memories. Know your “why’s” and keep them with you as you develop what you do and most of all, have fun.
Be in to win a framed Wild Cape print by purchasing any Wild Cape wine and sharing your ‘Wild Cape moment’. Scan the QR code on your bottle of wine to go into the draw. One winner will be drawn each week.
Shop the Wild Cape range here.
Want to see more of Andrew Semark's work:
Website: Click here
Instagram: Click here