David Ortiz and my photography in Cornwall

Growing up in Cornwall, near the picturesque stretch of the north coast that I now call home, profoundly influenced my photographic and creative direction.

I initially began taking seascape photographs as a secondary pursuit. My primary goal was to build a collection of photos of flowers and textures for use within the fabric prints I designed.

Over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to the landscape itself, rather than the immediate subjects. Thus, my journey into seascapes began.

Throughout the years, I've had the privilege of meeting incredibly talented photographers, some of whom have been instrumental in providing the support and guidance that have shaped my career.

As I developed my techniques as a photographer within the field of landscape and seascape photography, I was eager to establish my own unique style. Being self-taught was both a blessing and a curse in this regard, as I had a clear idea of what I wanted to avoid and what I wanted to achieve. But, in hindsight, I undoubtedly picked up many bad habits along the way without the guidance of a proper mentor.

It was upon discovering a lovely, vintage Carl Zeiss lens in a charity shop that I started experimenting with working with vintage 35mm film-camera lenses adapted for use on a digital camera body.

When coupled with a digital camera vinatge lenses - designed and coated for light-sensitive film - the mismatch in technologies results in beautiful colour reproduction and a distinctive aesthetic that's difficult to pinpoint.

I now primarily use vintage or legacy lenses in various focal lengths, but my favourite is the 135mm Carl Zeiss. It effectively flattens perspective which adds an intriguing dimension to familiar scenes, a look that I often strive for in my photography.

My photography often captures fleeting moments, such as Cornish sunrises or sunsets during my daily walks along the coast path between Padstow and Porthcothan, known locally as the Seven Bays. I also enjoy photographing the picturesque views across the River Camel estuary, from Tregirls beach to Polzeath, Daymer Bay, and Rock beach.

I print all of my giclée prints in my studio near Padstow using archival/gallery-standard papers and inks. You can purchase some of them on this website, and if you've seen a photo on my Instagram feed that you'd like a print of, please send me a message via the Contact page.

Additionally, if there's a specific beach, stretch of coastline, or coastal scene you'd like me to capture, I also offer commission work.

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