About Peter
Peter Hutchins is an Australian/Canadian photographer specialising in ocean, wildlife, and coastal imagery — with a focus on quiet moments that reveal connection rather than spectacle. Based on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, his work is shaped by long periods spent in the water, observing animal behaviour and the subtle interactions between light, movement, and place.
Peter's photography is grounded in respect for marine environments and the animals that inhabit them. Many of his images are captured while freediving, allowing him to work calmly and unobtrusively — creating photographs that feel intimate and considered rather than intrusive. Black and white plays an important role in his work, stripping scenes back to form, emotion, and story.
His underwater work is internationally recognised. In 2026, Peter was named Runner-Up in the Ernie Brooks Award of Excellence at the Ocean Geographic Pictures of the Year Competition — one of the most prestigious underwater photography awards in the world. His images have received recognition across national and international competitions, including the Exposure One Awards, the Landscape Awards, the Sony Alpha Awards, and Photographer of the Year.
Peter is also the founder of Dive Deeper — a growing documentary series that captures the marine life along Sydney's coastline. Each encounter is recorded not just as a photograph, but as a story worth protecting.
Selected Recognition
- Runner-Up, Ernie Brooks Award of Excellence, Ocean Geographic PICOTY 2026, Contact
- Honourable Mention, Exposure One Awards 2026, Wildlife, Disturbance
- Highly Commended, Photographer of the Year 2025, Animal and Nature, Far from Home
- Honourable Mention, Exposure One Awards 2025, Circle of Calm
- Commended, The Landscape Awards 2025, Ephemeral Drift
- Top 10, Photographer of the Year 2025, Animal and Nature
- Highly Commended Single Shot, Photographer of the Year 2024, Drifting Wood
- Finalist, Sony Alpha Awards 2024, Nature Category, And This One Is Mine
- Nominee, 1839 Awards 2025, Cultures & Traditions B&W, Coconut Collector
- Multiple wins and commendations, Northern Beaches Underwater Photography Competition 2024–2025, including The Chase (Winner, Behaviour)