In the vibrant coastal town of Airlie Beach, Queensland, lies a gallery that offers more than just stunning visuals. Above and Below Gallery, founded by the passionate and talented photographer Brooke Miles, encapsulates the breathtaking beauty of North Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Whitsunday Islands. Through her lens, Brooke invites us to see the world from new perspectives—both above and below the ocean’s surface. In this feature, we delve into Brooke’s journey, inspirations, and the magic behind her captivating work.

A Journey from West to East

Brooke Miles’s journey to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef began in Scarborough/Perth, Western Australia. Moving first in 2008 with her wedding and commercial photography business, and then permanently in 2012, Brooke was immediately drawn to the unparalleled beauty of the Whitsunday Islands. “The islands are like nowhere else in the world. 74 islands surrounded by reefs and jungles, and just a little further out is the Great Barrier Reef. The first time I flew over the reef, I was blown away,” she recalls. This awe-inspiring environment became her playground, where she honed her skills in aerial and underwater photography, ultimately leading to the birth of her gallery.

Capturing Memorable Moments

Every click of Brooke’s camera is a memory etched in time. From aerial shots of the Whitsunday Islands to underwater encounters at Heron Island, each experience holds a special place in her heart. “One of the dives was swimming with around 50 or so sharks. Totally amazing! And the whale encounters in Tonga are truly breathtaking. It’s like being on another planet,” she shares. Her work not only showcases the beauty of these locations but also tells the story of her adventures, filled with unpredictability and excitement.

Distilling the Essence of the Ocean

The vastness of the ocean presents a unique challenge—capturing its essence in a single photograph. For Brooke, it’s about finding the beauty in every moment and sharing that connection with others. “All I can do is capture the life and colour and beauty that crosses my path, in the hope that that beauty connects with someone else too,” she explains. Her photographs serve as a reminder of the ocean’s magnificence and the importance of its preservation.

Creating an Emotional Connection

Above and Below Gallery aims to transport viewers to the serene coasts through Brooke’s photography. “Peace is what comes to mind first up. I hope my images/prints allow people to stop and take them in for a while, exploring the layers and detail within, and in doing so, it slows down time… for just a little while,” she hopes. Beyond aesthetics, her work inspires conversations about conservation and the fragility of marine ecosystems.

Memorable Marine Encounters

Brooke’s encounters with marine life are as vivid as the images she captures. From the gentle giants of Tonga to the playful octopuses, each interaction is a story waiting to be told. “My favourite underwater creature is the octopus. They are so clever and interact with you like a timid child. If you spend time with them, they warm up to you and play,” she describes. These experiences not only enrich her portfolio but also deepen her appreciation for the ocean’s wonders.

In-Person vs. Online Experience

Visiting Above and Below Gallery in person offers a unique sensory experience. “In person, you can see the texture of the mediums I use to print on and get a feel for the framing options and profiles available,” Brooke explains. However, her online gallery ensures that even international buyers can enjoy her work, bringing a piece of the ocean into their homes.

Inspiring Nature Conservation

Through her art, Brooke aims to evoke a greater appreciation for nature and its preservation. “Hopefully, by focusing on the ocean from perspectives that most people don’t see for themselves, I can help to evoke an emotional connection to these environments,” she says. Her images spark conversations, leading to actions that can make a difference.

Balancing Art and Business

As an artist and business owner, Brooke balances creativity with entrepreneurship. Her values—respect, transparency, and empowerment—guide her endeavours. “I try to create a good workplace for my team and strive to empower them to be the best they can be,” she notes. This balance ensures that her gallery continues to thrive while staying true to her artistic vision.

Staying Motivated and Inspired

Nature itself is Brooke’s endless source of inspiration. Even when faced with creative blocks, she finds solace in observing the ocean. “Sometimes I will sit and stare at the ocean and not take a single picture. It’s important to sit back and watch sometimes,” she reflects. This approach allows her to recharge and return to her work with renewed passion.

Looking to the Future

Brooke’s aspirations for Above and Below Gallery are as expansive as the horizons she photographs. She aims to release new collections regularly and expand the gallery’s reach internationally. “I would love to partner with a gallery or investor overseas and exhibit other artists’ works, giving them exposure too,” she envisions.

A Call to Experience the Ocean’s Beauty

Brooke Miles’s Above and Below Gallery is more than just a collection of photographs—it’s an invitation to experience the ocean’s beauty and contemplate its significance. Whether you’re exploring her work online or visiting the gallery in Airlie Beach, you’ll find yourself immersed in the tranquility and majesty of the sea. Follow Brooke’s journey at www.aboveandbelowgallery.com.au and on social media @aboveandbelowgallery to stay connected with her latest collections and adventures.

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