Capturing the Ocean
By Danny Williams
For as long as I can remember the ocean has captivated and calmed me.
Like many others I can sit and watch the ocean for hours. Its movement is hypnotising. Whether it’s raging or tranquil, it’s powerful all the same. It’s always had the ability to clear my mind and instill calmness.
When I was younger, I only got to the sea once a year. I would spend as long as possible in the water until I was finally told ‘enough was enough, you need to get out!’ The rest of the time, not in the sea, would be spent staring out at it.
©dannywilliamsphoto
“Surfing is incredible. It’s worth the struggle, time and effort that it takes for what feels like a few seconds of freedom.”
When I was older and able to drive, I took every opportunity to be by the sea. I began learning to surf and my addiction for the ocean increased even more. Surfing is incredible. It’s worth the struggle, time and effort that it takes for what feels like a few seconds of freedom. However, I always found my time sat on my board, after the sometimes-intense paddle out back, just looking out towards the horizon whilst feeling the rise and fall of the tide under me the most addictive, and my time spent swimming, or just treading water, looking around me the most mesmerising.
©dannywilliamsphoto
©dannywilliamsphoto
“Anytime I was back home in the city for a prolonged period of time I found myself wishing I could capture those moments and that feeling.”
The feeling of weightlessness and vastness. To remember, even briefly, the way it gives me perspective and presence of mind. A true reset.
And then, the horrendous storm that was the COVID pandemic, and the ensuing lockdown hit.
Missing the ocean and the views from my favourite places seemed such a trivial thing compared to what others had to endure. I felt lucky to be able to return to these places when we were allowed once more, and I became determined to try and bottle the feeling of being in the sea for my own wellbeing.
©dannywilliamsphoto
©dannywilliamsphoto
So, armed with my iPhone and a, hopefully, waterproof housing I set out to do so. Every picture tells a story. I can remember each and every picture I’ve taken or video I’ve captured. Whether I was at that moment seeking clarity or simply enjoying the water. I can look at the collection I’ve begun to create and they serve as either happy, calming or reflective memories.
©dannywilliamsphoto
That said, the sea is always calling. I’m sure we all understand its pull. So, I’ll continue my pursuit; not for a specific photo, not with a specific landscape in mind, not for a sequence of film I’ve imagined. Just simply take the camera with me and let it see what I’m seeing so I can keep it with me. Those once-in-a-moment captures of an ever-changing scene that will never look the same way twice.
Danny Williams | HCSC Member
