Photographer & Videographer
Tim Burgess
Tim is the 2022 Australian Aerial Photographer of the Year and a 2024 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year finalist. His work is dedicated to documenting the momentum of nature’s power generated by the ocean’s waves to the behaviors of whales during their annual migration along the coastlines of Australia. His photography and videography showcasing these whales have been viewed millions of times worldwide, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy ocean ecosystem for all life on Earth.
Momentum, to me, is the immense energy generated by the movement of ocean waters. Driven by tides, waves, and currents, this energy represents a renewable and sustainable resource crucial for all life on Earth. I feel a deep connection to this powerful force, as it mirrors my creative journey. Just as the ocean's movement shapes the world, the flow of ideas and inspiration drives my artistic endeavors, fueling my passion and pushing me toward new horizons.
Every ecosystem has its stories of remarkable triumph and momentum. One that particularly stands out is the great humpback migration in Australia. Each year, over 40,000 humpback whales travel north to feed, mate, and give birth.
This migration showcases incredible momentum as the whales move in large pods through the Pacific and display immense power when they breach the ocean's surface. That's why I chose breaching whales to represent my story. Even though it's an annual event, it's rare to see a whale fully breach, let alone land.
Capturing breathtaking wildlife footage requires more than just luck. Keep a close eye on weather patterns, wind conditions, and environmental factors to pinpoint the best times and locations for filming. For example, during migration periods, many animals, such as whales, move closer to shore to safeguard their young from predators. These natural behaviors create prime opportunities to observe and film them safely. By understanding and anticipating these patterns, you can position yourself to capture truly stunning and memorable wildlife moments.
