Tanner Mansell | Shark Cinematographer | Florida
Professional shark cinematographer, Tanner Mansell, has well over 2,000 hours of experience diving with sharks, and a passion for this animal that dates back to childhood. He has developed unique skills in the ocean and a deep understanding of shark behavior, and began to photograph them with a mission to change public perception to ensure their future in our ecosystems.
Since then, Tanner has worked as the Director of Underwater Photography for both National Geographic’s television show Shark Fest, and Discovery Channel’s Shark Week. and has lead expeditions around the world, worked along-side the worlds top shark cinematographers, and is currently the lead actor in a feature film about a shark research expedition.
His work is inspired by a deep love for the ocean and its inhabitants, and to this day they remain his passion, greatest drive, and purpose in life.
What is a typical day like for you?
I am either running shark diving charters in Florida as a guide, photographer, or captain, or I am organizing worldwide expeditions to see sharks. I also do shoots with companies and brands that I believe in.
When did you first pick up a camera and start shooting underwater?
I started with a GoPro about 6 years ago and slowly kept upgrading as my love for capturing the underwater world and sharks increased.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
Growing up, I learned how to Abalone dive off the coast of Northern California with my dad. This was my introduction to the underwater world and I can remember plucking my very first Abalone as early as 7 years old. The water was cold and the visibility was bad. There were known to be Great Whites in the area but I was fearless. Growing up in that environment paved the way to being the waterman I am today.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I became an engineering technician at Intel, a Fortune 500 company. I quickly realized this was not the legacy I wanted to leave behind. I quit to be in the water with sharks every day of my life.
What do you value most in life?
I value time spent not worrying about the past, or the future. Time in the moment. That’s what shark diving brings me.
What brings you the most joy?
New encounters in the ocean. Moments connecting to nature. The things that can’t be explained with words, only felt by the heart.
Who/what currently inspires you?
I am constantly inspired by the natural world.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
There are too many people. Humans need to stop breeding.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
Too many to count. I set a goal to read 100 books in a year when I was at Intel, I did so because I felt lost and unfulfilled. I was stuck doing a job I didn’t love. The book the alchemist really helped drive my inspiration to quit and live my “personal legend”.
If I died today, I would be happy with the life I’ve lived because I found my purpose. That’s enough for me
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
Follow your heart. Be real. Be authentic. There are a lot of people that want to tell you how to live your life. The more you live it the way you want, the more success you will have. Be in it for the right reasons. Not for social media. Not for popularity. Do it because the ocean has the ability to change your life for the better. And it also has the ability to take your life at any moment. Karma is real. Believe it
WEBSITE: www.tannerunderwater.com
LINKTREE: linktr.ee/tannerunderwater
INSTAGRAM: @tannerunderwater
YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com
