Story & Lesson Highlights with Greg Johnston of Bali, Indonesia

Greg Johnston shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Greg, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
As an ocean landscape photographer, I am always up early before the sunrise. Usually researching and scouting potential locations. I also study google maps. for spots that offer interesting foreground elements with a clear view of the horizon. I check the tide schedule for access to certain areas and weather conditions for both sunrise and sunset to take advantage of shifting light. By planning ahead, arriving early, and being mindful of the changing light conditions, I can maximize my day and let my creativity flow with the interplay of light, water, and land.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My journey as a photographer began with a fascination of the underwater world. A lifelong career began a compelling narrative combining passion, exploration, and artistry. Capturing the beauty of the ocean became an extension of my curiosity and creativity. Many years working as an editorial photographer with dive magazines led to advertising success in the resort, hotel and tourism industry. My photography caught the interest of general travel publications and books as a tropical island destination photographer. I began working as a mentor to aspiring photographers, leading workshops, and conducting seminars on ocean photography. Today after forty years, the islands of Indonesia is my home and capturing the beauty in fine art gallery images.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a daydreamer in school, history was my favorite subject. Always fascinated by exploration. I studied civil engineering thinking about commercial diving. It was my first underwater photo sale in the local newspaper, and the editor’s first assignment, that gave me courage to pursue my passion.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was a time several years ago when social media was becoming more mainstream. Everyone had a digital camera cell phone and blogging was a less expensive way for Public Relation firms to get more exposure for their tourism clients. Travel magazines were disappearing and photo assignments were almost nonexistent. I gave up for a few years and began real estate house flipping. Then covid pandemic erupted and YouTube and social media began to make sense to me. I moved to Bali and refocused on fine art ocean photography

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
The first time I picked up a camera I knew this was destiny for me. In the travel business all of us photographers knew of each other. There seem to be a lot of competition and jealousy among us. One of my agents told me many of the photographers I knew could not compete in the digital social media age. One of my closest friends who is an editorial director having worked with many photographers said, “even in the midst of a Caribbean hurricane I would complete the assignment” he appreciated me being a true artist.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope my legacy will include a mentor, a teacher and one who put every ounce of his intellect, creativity and personality into his art. And mostly his personal vision was truly unique and applauded and lifetime appreciated.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
All photos copyright 2025 Greg Johnston

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