I’ve always felt a very natural connection to the coast, it’s where things slow down and make more sense. Over the years, through my work, that connection has deepened.  It’s not just a place anymore, it’s an environment that I’ve learned to understand and respect. Whether I’m underwater or working on a yacht, I’m constantly reminded that you’re a guest there. The sea dictates everything, the light, the conditions, the mood, and you learn to work with it, not against it.

What I like most is that it strips things back. There’s a simplicity to it, but also a deep respect for nature and the elements. People who spend time around the sea tend to understand patience, you can’t rush it. Whether it’s sailing, diving, or just being by the water, there’s a shared awareness that you’re part of something bigger. There’s also a strong sense of community, but without noise it’s more about experience than image.

My work sits somewhere between documentary and storytelling. I’m interested in capturing real moments whether that’s underwater, in open ocean, or on a racing yacht but in a way that creates a feeling, not just a record. A big part of my approach is patience and observation. I don’t try to force images. I wait for the moment where light, movement, and environment come together naturally. Technically,
I aim for clarity and precision, but always in service of something deeper connection, emotion, and a sense of being there.

Which is the most epic project you’ve done?

One that stands out is photographing the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race from a helicopter. The conditions were extreme strong winds, heavy seas, constant movement and everything had to be perfectly coordinated with the pilot and crew. There’s no margin for error in that environment. What made it special wasn’t just the scale of the race, but the intensity of the experience. You’re witnessing these boats and crews pushing themselves against the elements, and you have to anticipate moments before they happen. It really brings together everything technical precision, trust, and a deep respect for the sea.

I work on yachting projects from classic yachts to high-performance races as well as underwater and ocean-focused assignments. I also collaborate with brands and organisations where storytelling around the sea and environment is important. Even though the contexts can be very different, the approach stays the same: understanding the environment, working with natural light, and capturing something authentic. Whether it’s a commercial campaign or a more personal project, I’m always trying to translate the experience of being out there.

How do you look at photography and the coast?

The ocean has this balance of power and fragility, and I think photography has the ability to translate that in a very direct way. Over time, I’ve come to see the work as a form of visual education, if people can feel something when they look at an image, whether it’s awe, calm, or even responsibility, then it creates awareness. And that awareness is important, especially today. The more people connect with the ocean, the more they’ll care about protecting it.

Kurt Arrigo
Photographer