🌊 A Moment Captured: Finalist in Capture Magazine’s “Top Emerging Australian Photographer Awards”
Award-Winning Underwater Photographer – Capture Magazine Finalist
Katie Jackson of One Breath Creative has been named a finalist in Capture magazine’s 2025 Australia's Top Emerging Photographers awards, recognised in the Single Shot category for her emotive underwater portraiture. Blending freediving skills with storytelling, Katie creates transformative ocean photography experiences for individuals, brands, and families who crave authenticity and connection.
I’m beyond honoured to share that one of my underwater images “Surrender”, has been selected as a finalist in the Single Shot category of Capture magazine’s Australia's Top Emerging Photographers 2025.
This recognition means so much; not just for me, but for everything that goes into the kind of photography I create. The salt-stained skin, early mornings, the calm chaos of working with breath-holding bodies and wild water, the emotional and creative labour of weaving story through sea. Every frame begins with the planning, long before the shutter clicks under the surface.
To have one of those moments acknowledged by a panel of industry leaders is incredibly humbling.
Why this image matters
The “single shot” category is all about impact. One frame. One chance to tell a full story.
My finalist image “Surrender” was created during one of my immersive underwater sessions with Argentinian National Freediving Champion- Luciana Blanco Villegas. I work with clients who crave something deeper, brands who want assets that create more connection and publications who want to move their readers. And this frame felt like all of that in one heartbeat: presence, power and connection beneath the surface.
What it means to me
This recognition isn’t just a pat on the back; it’s fuel. It's validation that there’s a place for storytelling that’s slow, soulful and submerged. That underwater portraiture, when done with intention, can move people.
As a self-taught photographer, freediver, mother and someone who swapped a law career for saltwater and storytelling; this moment reminds me that you can reinvent yourself. You can chase dreams at any age.
What’s next?
This finalist recognition has fired me up for what’s ahead. I’m continuing to create meaningful ocean-centred art for brands, families and individuals seeking authenticity, transformation and reconnection—with nature, and themselves.
If you're looking for a photography experience that’s as empowering as it is beautiful, I’d love to hear from you.
📸 Huge thank you to Capture Magazine and the judging panel. You can view all the finalists here and read more about the competition in their latest issue.
One Breath Creative Nominated for Central Coast Visitor Economy Award
I’m honoured to share that One Breath Creative has been nominated for Most Outstanding Outdoor Experience in this year’s Central Coast Visitor Economy Awards! 🐋💙
The Central Coast Visitor Economy Awards are an annual celebration recognising excellence across the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Organised by Business NSW in partnership with the Gosford Erina Business Chamber and Central Coast Council, the awards spotlight outstanding businesses and individuals driving tourism success. Finalists present their achievements live at the Regional Showcase Day, fostering innovation and regional pride. Categories range from Sustainable Tourism to Luxury Escapes, highlighting the diverse offerings that make the Central Coast a premier destination.
I’m thrilled to share that One Breath Creative has been nominated for Most Outstanding Outdoor Experience in the Central Coast Visitor Economy Awards!
This recognition is incredibly meaningful; not just for me personally, but for the incredible natural beauty we have on our doorstep.
The awards ceremony, originally scheduled for the end of May, had to be postponed due to severe flooding across our region. Our hearts go out to the rural businesses and families impacted by flood waters. It’s been a powerful reminder of both nature’s strength and our community’s resilience.
The awards will now be held at the end of this month, and I can’t wait to represent our beautiful coast and the magic of our oceans. From salty sunrises to encounters with migrating whales with fellow ocean-lovers; my work is all about inspiring people to slow down, reconnect with nature and use the ocean as a remedy for burnout.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported my journey. Whether you've jumped in the ocean with me, shared my work, or simply followed along; you’re part of this wild, blue mind story.