Nush Freedman: From Bush to Sea, Crafting Visual Narratives to Save Marine Life

Anouska "Nush" Freedman is an underwater photographer, cinematographer, and conservationist whose work brings the wonders of the ocean to global audiences. Based in Ningaloo, Western Australia, she blends her creative expertise with a deep passion for marine conservation, using storytelling to inspire action. Through her involvement in documentaries like Disney’s Shipwreck Hunters Australia and her role as a GeoChange ambassador, Nush invites the world to see the ocean not just as a place of beauty but as a fragile ecosystem in need of protection.

Who is Anouska “Nush” Freedman?

Nush is more than a visual artist—she’s a guardian of the sea. With a background in freediving, dive mastering, and skippering, she has explored some of the world’s most remote marine environments. Her career has taken her beneath the waves of the Ningaloo Reef and beyond, where she has played a key role in high-end natural history documentaries and conservation missions. Her artistry serves as both a celebration of marine life and a powerful call to action for its preservation.

Nush Freedman’s Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Conservationist

How did Nush Freedman start her conservation journey?

Nush’s path to ocean conservation was shaped by her move to Exmouth, where she fell in love with the diverse marine life of the Ningaloo Reef. Initially drawn to underwater photography as a hobby, she soon realised that her lens could be a tool for change. Shifting from a background in traditional design to conservation storytelling, she found her purpose—using visual narratives to foster a deep connection between people and the ocean. Her work reflects a profound appreciation for marine life, as well as an urgent conservation message.

Passion for Ocean Conservation: Protecting What She Loves Through Her Work

“My passion for photography and videography is always stemming from the fact that we can connect the rest of the world to the wild. That’s really important because it creates a connection and makes people care about our wild places and the special areas we need to protect.”

Nush’s work goes beyond documenting the ocean; it educates and inspires. Through her involvement in projects like Shipwreck Hunters Australia, she sheds light on the untold stories of marine history and biodiversity. From ancient shipwrecks to rare marine encounters, her storytelling transforms distant, unseen ecosystems into tangible realities for audiences worldwide. Based on the Ningaloo Reef, she also actively participates in research and marine protection efforts, advocating against industrial threats to fragile ecosystems like the Exmouth Gulf.

Nush's Career Highlights: Capturing Nature’s Wonders

Nush’s career has taken her to some of Western Australia’s most breathtaking underwater locations. She has documented the historic Montebello Islands, where she formed an unexpected bond with Dot, a Queensland grouper, and explored the vibrant marine life of the Dampier Archipelago. From the graceful movements of manta rays to the sheer presence of humpback whales and whale sharks, her work captures the ocean’s majesty while highlighting the urgent need for conservation.

Personal Mission: Inspiring Others Through Storytelling

Through her work in conservation and eco-tourism, Nush encourages people to connect with the ocean in a way that fosters respect and responsibility. She advocates for sustainable tourism experiences, such as responsible whale shark and manta ray interactions, which allow visitors to witness marine life without disturbing fragile ecosystems. She also shares safety and ethical diving practices, reinforcing the importance of protecting marine habitats while enjoying them.

Challenges and Triumphs: The Realities of Ocean Conservation Work

The reality of conservation work is filled with challenges—from navigating the complexities of filming in remote locations to confronting environmental threats like habitat destruction and industrialization. Despite these obstacles, Nush remains steadfast in her mission. She uses her platform to highlight the urgency of protecting endangered ecosystems, bridging the gap between conservation science and public awareness. Her work makes marine conservation more accessible, ensuring that people feel connected to the ocean, no matter where they are.

How You Can Support Nush’s Mission

Supporting Nush’s mission through GeoChange means investing in conservation through art. Her limited-edition photographic prints capture the ocean’s beauty while directly funding environmental initiatives—specifically, Protect Ningaloo, a campaign dedicated to preserving the unique biodiversity of the Ningaloo region. Every purchase contributes to meaningful conservation efforts, turning art into action.

“GeoChange is important because it is bringing together community and people that care for the wild, and is generating awareness and a way for us to spread great messages far and wide…”

GeoChange also partners with eco-conscious businesses, offering exclusive discounts on sustainable products to members. By joining this movement, you’re not just supporting Nush’s vision—you’re becoming part of a larger effort to protect our oceans for future generations.