
Kian’s passion for the ocean is what makes Raw Edge Photography so unique, for him, being able to freeze a breaking wave in a moment of time is incredibly rewarding.
Kian Bates
Multi-award-winning photographer
“I grew up next to the ocean, so I’ve always had an affinity for it. It doesn’t matter whether I’m on a surfboard, spearfishing, free-diving or simply behind the camera – I feel recharged by the ocean's raw energy”
Kian photographing Humpback Whales in Vava’u Tonga.
Starting with a waterproof camera in high school, Kian has since learnt to develop his craft by continuously experimenting with a series of cameras and lenses.
Kian is constantly amazed by the view from behind the lens, both above and below the surface. Photographing marine life below the surface is exciting, you never know what interactions you will have. Humpback Whales, Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, Eagle Rays and False Killer Whales to name a few are all unique with behaviour and interactions. Its rewarding to capture beautiful images of these animals in their environment and Kian finds it helps create awareness and can help in protecting their future through imagery.
He loves capturing images of barrelling waves, backwash, vortexes, wedges, micro-waves, good clarity and stormy swells also make for a great session.
On land he captures the beauty of the beaches, lakes and headlands around the Barrington Coast region. Sunrises, sunsets and those picture perfect clear water days.
When it’s storm season Kian will be out chasing mother natures beautiful and violent displays of lightning and shelf clouds, this is his favourite form of landscape photography and for him an adrenalin rush.
Pacific Palms is the perfect spot for Kian, Ashley and their family. Being surrounded by such an incredible coastline means there is a never ending source of photographic inspiration and opportunity.
Award Winning Photography
Raw Edge Photography has been awarded several accolades including being highly commended as one of Australia’s top emerging photographers and won bronze two years running in the Epson Pano Awards.
Kian has also had success winning categories in the Classic Surf Art Exhibition and local favourite, the Pacific Palms Art Festival.
Visit the Raw Edge Gallery
Meet Kian and Ashley at their gallery space in Boomerang Beach. The gallery showcases a range of photographic prints, framed photos, and canvases, all available for purchase. Request a gallery viewing by sending a message on Facebook or via the contact page.
Opening Hours for school holidays:
Friday, Saturdays & Mondays 10am-2pm
Open during the long weekends as above.
Out of School Holidays we open every Saturday 10am-2pm.