Capturing Beauty Beneath the Surface
Joe Platko
Joseph Platko is a nature and underwater photographer who currently resides in Monterey, California. He is a graduate of CSU Monterey Bay, having earned a bachelors of science focusing on marine ecosystems. It was there that he furthered his passion for the ocean by first obtaining his dive certification, and shortly thereafter buying his first underwater camera setup.I enjoy shooting underwater for many reasons. The lighting is quite atmospheric, so everything has a soft glow about it. Also, with lower visibility any interactions with animals are quite intimate and you get to personally interact with them while photographing.
Having the community darkroom has helped me to further appreciate the full photographic process from taking the initial shot through printing. I had never done analog printing before and so being able to have a space where I can do so has been both a joy and also an eye opening experience.
Becca Boring
Becca Boring has been a photographer and diver since elementary school, and combined the two about 10 years ago when she became the operations manger for Monterey based retailer, Backscatter Underwater Video & Photo. She quickly fell in love with underwater photography, with a particular fondness for photographing shipwrecks.
Why underwater photography inspires me:
In the often harsh and unpredictable underwater environment manmade things deteriorate rapidly. Being able to capture fleeting glimpses of history fascinates me. And the ritual of gear prep, the quiet of diving, and the process of working with such unique images is inspiring.
Spending time in the community darkroom has rekindled my love of terrestrial photography. Much like underwater photography it’s the process that captivates me. From conjuring up ideas and shooting, to developing and printing, to collaborating and commiserating with fellow photographers. That process makes small moments feel big and it’s changing my perspective on photography.
Thomas Anderson
Born and raised on the Monterey Peninsula, Thomas Anderson has been fascinated by the ocean and natural wonders that surround the county. A graduate of Humboldt State University, with a bachelors in Marine Science and a minor in Scientific Diving, he has decided to exchange his data sheets and dive slate for a camera, and has been shooting consistently since.
WHY UW PHOTO INSPIRES ME:
Underwater photography inspires me since it is highly dynamic, in terms of environment and photography. You never know what subject or conditions the ocean will provide. Being able to capture and share images in an environment most people don’t have access to is also extremely rewarding.
WHY A COMMUNITY DARKROOM IS IMPORTANT TO ME
Having a community space and darkroom has afforded the opportunity to slow down, and get back to basics. Being surrounded by other photographers with different life experiences and expertise has provided me with an environment to further grow as a photographer and artist, that I otherwise would never have had access to.
