Our Behind the Lens series aims to give you a deeper insight into the workings of some incredible photographers (+ maybe a tip or two!) - and this month we were so excited to chat to the amazing Hannah Prewitt.

Hannah's creative flair and eye for composition really shines through in her work, setting her photography apart in a style uniquely her own. One quick glance at her instagram and it's clear to see Hannah loves the ocean - and this translates into breath taking, awe inspiring images. So, grab a cuppa, check out her instagram, and dive into the interview below!

How did you get into photography?

I didn’t get into photography until a bit later than most. I was in my late twenties and had just started learning to surf where I was working in the Maldives. The surf crew there had a camera and a big lens so I would go out on the boat when the waves were too big for me and take photos on auto. It was there that I also met a world-renowned surf photographer who taught me a few things and advised me on what equipment to buy if I wanted to give photography a go. I had some savings at that time so I spent it all on decent equipment, then I spent the next few years figuring out how to use it!

How would you describe your photography style?

Emotive, minimalistic with a tropical candid flair!

What camera do you have?

Nikon D750 and Nikon Z6 II

What's your fave lens (& why)?

My favourite lens I’ve ever used would be the Nikkor 105mm f/1.4. A gorgeous piece of glass but sadly I had to give that back to Nikon! My lens choice really depends on what I’m shooting, but I guess if I had to choose just one it would be the 50mm f/1.4. It’s just a great all-rounder for most subjects.

Where (or what) do you draw inspiration from?

I’m most inspired by the sun. The way sunlight hits the ocean, the way it streams out through a dark tropical storm. The sun, the ocean, and all the amazing tropical places I’ve been fortunate enough to live in.

Favourite photographer to follow?

Mikko Lagerstedt, Bryanna Bradley, Benjamin Everett, and Woody Gooch. Can’t choose just one! Oh, and Ben Thouard.

Favourite photo you've taken (& why)?

This one called 'Sparkling Water'. It’s an abstract shot of the sunrise taken from the water at dawn, and even tho I took it and I have the raw, to me it doesn’t look real. I have this one printed big in my home.

In your opinion, what makes a good photo?

One that makes you want to keep looking at it, and you can’t describe why you like it, you just do. A great image draws the viewer in because the photographer has successfully captured beautiful light, an interesting subject with perfect composition.

What's in your camera bag? Any essential items?

I have two camera bags – one for water, one for land. In my water kit is my Nikon D750, Aquatech housing, and either my 50mm or 16-35mm lens. Swim fins, a wetsuit, and a wrist strap. This is SO essential! I’ve forgotten this once and it makes the shoot really stressful.

In my standard camera bag is my Nikon Z 6II, 80-400mm, 24-70mm and 50mm lenses, cleaning cloths, spare SD cards, spare batteries, and a blower. Such an amazing cleaning tool especially when dealing with sand! Snacks and water are also essential!

Any tips for beginner photographers?

Practice, practice, practice. For so long when I was a beginner, I felt self-conscious shooting in public because I didn’t feel entirely confident in what I was doing and I let that hold me back, but the only way to get better is to do it. So ignore everyone else and do your thing! Also, don’t buy more equipment until you can answer the question “what problem will this equipment solve?”. Photography only becomes about the gear when you fully understand how to use it.

Where to find Hannah:

• @hannahprewittphotography
• hannahprewitt.com

If you have any suggestions on who to interview next, send us a message!