INKA CRESSWELL
FILMMAKER I MARINE BIOLOGIST I PHOTOGRAPHER
Through my photography, I tell stories about research efforts, conservation successes and defeats and work to change peoples perspectives of some of our most misunderstood species. From attempting to portray the lesser viewed calm interactions with a cruising great white to documenting the intimate moment an apex predator comes face to face with the free divers working to conserve their species, with every image I attempt to tell a story, educating the public about these unique encounters and the individuals working behind the scenes to save them.
- INKA CRESSWELL
Hi, I’m Inka, and welcome to my website!
I’m a Bristol-based wildlife filmmaker, underwater camera operator, and ocean conservationist with a B.Sc. in Marine Biology and an M.A. in Wildlife Filmmaking from the University of the West of England. My mission is to combine my background in marine science with powerful storytelling to create films that inspire action, connect people to the beauty of our oceans, and drive meaningful conservation impact.
My work has taken me across the globe, from documenting coral restoration in the tropics to field-directing polar deep-sea submersible shoots. I’ve collaborated with leading scientists and filmmakers, worked on groundbreaking wildlife documentaries like Our Oceans for Netflix, and filmed in some of the most remote and diverse marine ecosystems. With over 10 years of diving experience, I’ve explored nearly every type of ocean habitat, capturing stories that showcase both the wonder of the underwater world and the urgent need to protect it.
Beyond filmmaking, I’m passionate about inspiring others, particularly the next generation of conservationists. I frequently give public talks on ocean conservation, wildlife filmmaking, and marine science, and I’m committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in STEM and the wildlife filmmaking industries.
I’ve also worked as a social media influencer, engaging global audiences in conversations about sustainable solutions and ocean health.
As a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor and TDI Technical Diver. HSE Commercial diver and rEvo rebreather diver, my love for the ocean is deeply ingrained in my life and work. Whether I’m documenting shark tagging research, exploring tropical coral reefs, or directing shoots in Antarctica, I’m always striving to inspire others to care for and protect our blue planet.
On this site, you’ll find behind-the-scenes insights into my projects, my photography galleries, and stories from the field that offer a unique perspective on what it’s like to dedicate your life to the ocean.
Thank you for visiting my site! If you have any questions, ideas, or potential collaborations in mind, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to inspire change and protect the incredible underwater world we all share.
Warm wishes,
Inka Cresswell
THE OCEAN AND US
The Ocean and Us provides an overview of our contemporary understanding of the ocean and all the ways our lives interact with it. It is intended for everyone with an interest in our blue planet. The book brings together the expertise of over 35 ocean specialists from around the world. It explores a wide variety of themes including the importance of a healthy ocean in the fight to halt and contain climate change. It covers issues such as overfishing and pollution, as well as emerging themes such as the blue economy, marine animal welfare and how we can leverage innovation to protect the ocean. The book provides an overview of some of the world’s iconic threatened and at risk ocean ecosystems, and outlines current governance structures and ocean management tools. It also discusses the important social dimensions between people and the ocean, such as ocean and human wellbeing, communities and the ocean, and who gets to participate in the ocean space. The book aims to enhance ocean literacy by making specialist concepts accessible to non-experts, with a view to empowering concerned citizens everywhere to come into action for the ocean, and pave a better way forward for humanity..
