Cornwall-based, globally‑experienced underwater photographer

Photographing underwater combines calmness with technical discipline and absolute trust. Based in Cornwall and working across the UK and the world, Gavin Parsons is a highly experienced underwater photographer serving film and TV productions, documentary projects, and underwater portraiture—from surface-level sequences to full underwater stills work in open water, tanks, and controlled environments.

Underwater Unit Stills

Capturing clean, cinematic stills underwater and around water requires a different rhythm to surface shooting. I work closely with directors, DOPs, safety teams, and performers to deliver production-ready stills that match the tone, lighting, and continuity of the scene. Whether it’s key art, narrative moments, or atmospheric coverage, the aim is always the same: sharp, usable images that support the story.

Behind the Scenes Underwater

Underwater BTS photography documents the craft behind the camera—the rigs, rehearsals, safety procedures, and technical choreography that make each sequence possible. These images support press, EPK, social content, and production archives, giving a clear sense of the work that happens on and below the surface.

I am calm, discreet, and don’t get in the way of a production. Whether it's breath-holding (freediving) or on scuba, I work quietly, quickly, and always come back with an impressive set of eye-catching images.

Underwater Commercial Photography

As a chosen assignment photographer for the UK’s leading baby swimming school (Waterbabies) I am a highly respected underwater photographer who can capture unique images as memories or for commercial purposes. My underwater photography has appeared in magazines, books, advertising, and as art on the walls of people’s homes. If you have a photographic project with a water-based element, you should talk it through with me first.

Technical Capabilities

I have shot underwater professionally for over 30 years, starting on film and graduating to the top-of-the-line mirrorless digital cameras.

• I shoot with Nikon Z9s in Aquatica housings
• I use a range of lenses, but the most typical are a 16mm fisheye and a 20mm wide-angle.
• If applicable, I have combined constant and flash lighting for underwater and surface-mounted capabilities
• Experience with safety teams, divers, and stunt performers
• Comfortable in open water (tropical, temperate, and arctic water), pools, and tank environments.
• Breath hold and or scuba (certified as an instructor) and hold an HSE medical certificate.

Approach

Underwater work relies on calm communication and a safety-first mindset. I collaborate closely with the dive supervisor, safety divers, and performers to ensure every shot is planned, achievable, and executed without disruption to the wider team. The aim is always to work quietly, efficiently, and with minimal footprint.

Locations

I am based in Cornwall, with access to a wide range of coastal locations, dive sites, and controlled environments. However, I am available for productions across the UK and around the world, including underwater sound stages, tank facilities, pools, marine units, and studios.

Underwater Photography Gallery

Here is a small selection of underwater images. For a more detailed and varied portfolio, click here.

Enquiries

For underwater stills, BTS or production enquiries, please get in touch at photo@gavinparsons.co.uk or call 07720 706 143