Nathan Penhall

Year of birth: 1980
Where do you live: Melbourne, Australia
Describe your art in three words: Ethereal, dramatic, introspective
Website | Instagram

What inspired you to pick up a camera for the first time, and how has your perspective on photography evolved since 2013?

My journey into photography began in 2013 when I acquired my first Canon DSLR in anticipation of a trip to Queenstown, New Zealand. This pivotal moment ignited a passion that continues to drive my exploration and dedication to capturing the essence of nature’s most stunning landscapes. While I have always had a fascination towards the finer details, the way I now compose an image has evolved to capture the holistic interplay of the contrasting natural elements. This is quite often achieved through aerial vantage points.

Your work emphasizes Australia’s natural beauty. What draws you to these landscapes, and do you have a favorite location to photograph?

I feel a very strong connection to the Australian natural environment. Departing the city to chase remote landscapes is an exhilarating experience. Australia is a country of never-ending and continually evolving coastlines, which present opportunities to capture magical compositions. Through my eyes, Western Australia is a state of contrasting landscapes and natural beauty that is hard to beat. A grand expanse that has so much to offer a landscape photographer.

Nathan Penhall, Buffalo Creek

How do you balance the artistic and technical aspects of landscape photography?

Admittedly, this can be a balancing act at times! Photography has structured guidelines which should be followed to capture an admired composition. As my desire shifts towards capturing abstract images, the artistic element can become more dominant, with the hope that the viewer will share the same appreciation of the final image as I do.

What role do you believe photography plays in raising awareness about sustainability and environmental preservation?

There is an inner drive that I have to capture these landscapes in an abstract, almost otherworldly context, in the hope that the viewer will pause to understand and reflect on the natural beauty outside of our heavily populated urban areas, and how fragile they are to preserve. Each photograph is a fleeting moment frozen in time, a celebration of nature’s own sense of composition and design. The images, shaped by the play of light, salt, and water, reveal a tapestry of fluid geometries, delicate hues, and organic patterns.

Nathan Penhall, Tyrrell Hues

Could you share any memorable moments or challenges you’ve experienced while capturing Australia’s landscapes?

Chasing remote locations in Australia can present some serious challenges in a variety of ways, with personal safety being front of mind at all times. Preparing my journey with the necessary due diligence and having conversations with the locals to better understand the surrounding area is always recommended. The terrain and access to the final destination can be difficult. My favourite time of the day is sunrise, and many times I will have to walk through bushland in the dark to set up my equipment before dawn. I have been forewarned many times about crocodiles, snakes, spiders, jellyfish and other local wildlife that call Australia home!

How has your connection with Melbourne’s building and landscape architecture communities influenced your approach to photography?

My approach with client based work is very structured and adheres more closely to the technical aspects of photography. It’s a Business to Business transaction, knowing that they are engaging my services in order to present and market their projects for the purpose of growing their own business. Delivering a premium service and final product to clients is a priority for me, and is something that has allowed me to organically grow my photography business.

What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who want to develop their own unique style?

Don’t hesitate to experiment with new compositions or editing techniques. Be fluid in your approach to photography and learn what works for you. Have patience and enjoy what will be your evolving journey over the years to come. Most importantly, chase your passion!

Nathan Penhall, Weyba Sunrise