🌊 5 Actions You Can Take to Help Protect Our Oceans on World Ocean Day- from an Australian Underwater Photographer

As an underwater photographer, freediver, and mother raising her family by the sea, I see firsthand the power the ocean has to heal, inspire and connect us. But I also see the toll we’re taking on it. Plastic pollution tangled in seaweed, reef systems bleaching, wildlife struggling to survive in warming waters and the impact of shark nets and drum lines; the threats are real and are right here on our doorstep.

So what is World Ocean Day?

World Ocean Day is celebrated every year on June 8 to recognise the critical role the ocean plays in sustaining life on Earth. It’s a day to celebrate the sea’s beauty and power; but also to raise awareness of the threats it faces and inspire action to protect it. From coastal communities to global policy changes, it’s a collective call to put the ocean first.

But World Ocean Day isn’t just about awareness—it’s a call to action. So here are 5 realistic, impactful actions you can take to help protect our oceans. No greenwashing. No guilt-tripping. Just empowered choices that ripple outward.

1. Say no to single-use plastic (especially when outdoors)

That cheeky takeaway coffee cup or soft drink bottle on your beach walk? It never stays on land. Take three for the sea. Choose reusables. Make it your norm.

2. Support ocean-friendly brands and local conservation

Put your dollars where your values are. Support local businesses and ocean-focused organisations that prioritise sustainability, reef-safe ingredients, and ethical practices. Better yet—ask questions. Conscious consumers change markets.

3. Vote with your voice and values

Whether it's local council decisions on coastal developments or national climate policy—your voice matters. Sign petitions, write to MPs, share science-backed ocean content. You don’t need a megaphone. Just start talking. The Australian Marine Conservation Society takes real action for our waters and is a great place to start using your voice for change.

4. Reconnect with the water

The more we feel connected, the more we act. Swim. Dive. Snorkel. Let your kids see you love the ocean. Reconnection is the antidote to disconnection—and the spark that lights change.

5. Share ocean stories

Share the beauty, the urgency, and the wonder of the sea. Post your favourite ocean moment. Tell your kids bedtime stories about whales. Book an underwater photo session that celebrates the sea. What we love, we protect.

On this World Ocean Day, remember;it’s not about perfection. It’s about momentum. One action at a time. From the shoreline to the deep blue, your choices matter.

💙 With salt in my hair and purpose in my lens,
Katie x
One Breath Creative

A Salty Celebration: Photographing Olympic Artistic Swimmer, Zoe Poulis, dancing among Green Sea Turtles

Some days I have to pinch myself that this is my job!

I’m beyond excited to share that a series of my underwater images have been published in the winter edition of luxury lifestyle print magazine, Salty Magazine.  Including the FRONT COVER!

The incredible images we captured accompany a stunning feature interview with Olympic Artistic swimmer, Zoe Poulis.

This shoot was something really special.

Zoe and I travelled to the Cook Island Aquatic Reserve, just off the beautiful Fingal coast in Northern NSW; a marine sanctuary known for its clear waters, vibrant coral gardens and resident green sea turtle colony. As soon as we slipped beneath the surface, it was like entering another world; calm, spiritual and buzzing with marine life.

Zoe moved through the water like a ballerina; graceful, strong and deeply connected to the ocean. Watching her swim alongside these peaceful animals was a deeply moving experience. They swam around us, as though they were part of our dance.  

To connect with Zoe in this environment felt like a beautiful meeting of creative enthusiasm and beauty.  Zoe uses her body as her medium, I my camera.   As a fellow ocean lover and freediver, it’s moments like this that make me feel incredibly grateful for this work and this life.

I’m so honoured that Salty Magazine chose to feature Zoe’s story. It’s not just about the unique art that we created; it’s about connection to nature, to our bodies and to the deep emotional pull that the ocean has on so many of us.

Salty Magazine is a “premium lifestyle magazine for those who crave adventure, connection and freedom. Rooted in the South Coast of NSW, Salty celebrates bold experiences, elevated travel, and intentional living.  From luxe travel gems and boutique stays to wellness, authentic living and the creatives shaping the far south coast-  Salty delivers inspiring stories, expert insights and must-visit destinations. Whether you're looking for luxury escapes, coastal adventures, or insider tips on the best places to eat, stay and explore, Salty is your guide to a life well-lived.”  You can order your print copy of read online here.

Thank you to Zoe for trusting me to capture your story in saltwater and sunlight and thank you to Salty Magazine for the feature.

Katie x

Mother’s Day minis are live ⚡️

Mother’s Day mermaid mini sessions are live💫.. the ocean is calling the saltwater women of the east coast🌊

Join me at the shore to celebrate the sunrise with your little fish on Saturday 29 April 2023 and make some epic new memories with a unique photo shoot experience. 🐠

20 minutes of fun on the shore or in the water at either Toowoon Bay or Bateau Bay Beach (location tbc closer to date based on swell and weather).

All the details;

🐚Sessions starting at 6.30am until 10am.

🌴$150 for 20 minute session either on shore or in the water, 10 professionally edited images delivered via online gallery in time for Mother’s Day, to download, print and share (gallery upgrades available)

🐚$50 booking fee payable to secure session

🌴book via online link in bio or click this link;

https://dearjuniperphotography.as.me/schedule.php

DM for more info🤌🏼

Arriving 2023

Dear Juniper Photography news arriving in 2023. Giveaways, Minis, client guides and inspiration. Subscribe to keep up to date.