Talia Greis, a self-taught underwater photographer from Sydney, Australia, developed a deep appreciation for ocean life while growing up in the coastal Eastern Suburbs. Her passion for the sea took root during a transformative dive at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. This experience opened her eyes to the vibrant and diverse underwater world, sparking an intense desire to capture its beauty. Armed with a camera, Talia set out to document the rich marine life she encountered, driven by a fascination with the intricate colours, patterns, and movements of the ocean’s inhabitants.
Her photography journey evolved organically as she sought to fully understand and connect with the underwater world. Talia’s self-guided exploration of underwater photography quickly developed into a professional pursuit, blending her love for the ocean with a desire to share its hidden beauty. Over six years, she has honed her craft, earning international recognition for her ability to capture the essence of marine life in its natural habitat.
A shallow sinkhole with the most impressive range of water lilies. Found in the depths of the rainforest, Mexico.
Talia Greis’s talent has been recognized through numerous awards, including winning the Ocean Art 2019 Compact Division, Emerging Photographer of the Year 2023 for Ocean Geographic, and the Landscape Category at the 2023 Head On Photo Festival. In 2024, she won Underwater Photographer of the Year (UPY) for the Macro Category and was honoured at The Australian Landscape Awards.
Talia’s photographic style is rooted in capturing the ocean’s natural beauty as it unfolds. Her approach focuses on authenticity, allowing her subjects to reveal themselves without interference. By immersing herself in these moments, she captures the intricate details and vibrant colours of marine life, creating images that resonate with a sense of wonder and intimacy. For Talia, diving without a camera has become unthinkable, as she feels the urge to document every captivating encounter she experiences underwater.
A mother humpback never strays from her young, guiding the calf as it sleeps.
More than just a photographer, Talia Greis is a passionate advocate for marine conservation. Her encounters with endangered species and fragile ecosystems have instilled a profound responsibility to protect the ocean. Talia believes that her photographs are not just art but tools for raising awareness about the critical state of marine life. By sharing these images with the world, she hopes to inspire others to appreciate and protect the underwater world, ensuring its beauty is preserved for future generations.
Talia’s commitment to conservation is evident in every aspect of her work. She has dedicated herself to showcasing the majesty and vulnerability of marine life, using her platform to educate the public about the threats facing the ocean. Her photographs provide a window into a world many will never see firsthand, highlighting the urgency of protecting these ecosystems. Through exhibitions, collaborations, and speaking engagements, Talia continues to champion the cause of ocean conservation, inspiring others to join her in safeguarding the wonders of the deep.
1. Book: “Science of the Year” book – By Bonnier Publications
2. Google Arts and Culture Project – “Blue Fleet”
3. Liquid Lens Exhibition – Bellagio
4. Head on – Exhibition of Winning Photo