The Story Behind The Smile

I'm Maria, a pioneer, dreamer, passionate shark stalker, lover of all things ocean and an SSI Snorkel Instructor (I also speak Spanish, Portuguese and a little touch of Polish and Japanese), falling in love with the ocean after being run over for the second time by a large Greek lorry with 15 fractures (the first time was a police car in London) and on the end-of-life pathway. I was told I was not going to live or walk again, but here I am as a Multi-Award Winning Photographer, Award Winning and Best-Selling Author, who's helped thousands of guests worldwide to develop their own skills and has raised thousands in funds for both marine conservation organisations and local causes.

With a d-SLR, Mirrorless, Compact Camera, Go Pro or Smartphone, I have explored the breathtaking underwater world both as a snorkeller and diver, capturing the beauty of wildlife, marine mammals and their habitats. I am deeply grateful to have met, learnt from and worked with incredible Pioneers and Researchers in many areas across the world.

Throughout my career, I have experienced incredible encounters with so many special marine creatures from the tiniest shrimps here in Swanage, Dorset to swimming with 30 tonne humpback whales and huge white sharks, creating a bond which is reflected in my images. It brings me the most joy to help others discover their own potential through my photography courses and talks, see them win over 20 prizes, become National Geographic Explorers or even Magazine Editors themselves. My story has been featured on the BBC and many other magazines, both here and overseas, highlighting the importance of marine conservation and awareness. It's incredible to find out my first book which I pioneered back in 2010 "Underwater Photography for Compact Camera Users" is the world's 2nd Best Selling eBook of All Time and an AMAZON Best-Seller.

Thank you for stopping by and I look forward to hearing all about your adventures.

Maria x Licentiateship of the Royal Photographic Society

UK MARES/SSI Snorkel Ambassador

DIVEVOLK Smartphone Underwater Housing Ambassador

Huge thanks to them all and Headway for their support and also to

VOITED for keeping me warm on my evening Beach & Ocean Cleans