BEHIND THE LENS

BIO

Dean Maguire, a passionate photographer, proud father of three, and loving husband, is based in Wilton, NSW. With the stunning Illawarra coastline as his backyard, Dean draws inspiration from both the natural beauty around him and breathtaking locations across Australia. What began as an interest in traditional land and seascape photography has evolved into a deep passion for fine art black and white imagery. Dean’s unique style captures the power of the ocean and the intricate beauty of landscapes, using long exposure techniques that reflect his distinct artistic perspective.

From an early age, Dean’s connection to the ocean was formed during family holidays at North Narrabeen, a place that remains close to his heart. It was here, at just 13 years old, that Dean’s love for black-and-white imagery began. A teacher’s comment about his uncolored ocean drawings sparked his determination to break artistic rules and create his art on his terms. That defining moment led him to embrace photography and pursue it with a dedication to capturing every line, shadow, and detail.

After purchasing his first camera at age 18, Dean’s photographic journey initially covered a wide range of subjects, from portraits to street photography, but it was his growing admiration for the works of renowned Australian photographers like Ken Duncan and Glenn McKimmin that led him back to the ocean. Land and seascapes became his focus, though his creative approach always leaned towards something more personal, refined, and emotionally driven.

One of Dean’s proudest moments in his career was having an image featured in Australian Photography magazine, a photograph of North Narrabeen pool that holds deep sentimental value. Capturing this image during a visit with his wife and children, he felt as though he had allowed his emotions to come through in his work, something he had never done before. This image was not only a technical achievement but also a representation of family, memory, and tradition.

Though photography has always been a passion, there was a period when Dean stepped away from the craft. After a fall while shooting on the Illawarra coast led to the loss of his camera, and with his growing family and career in the fast-paced broadcast television industry, Dean took a break. However, thanks to the support of his wife Candice and a generous gift from friend and fellow photographer Karl Strand, Dean was able to re-enter the world of photography in 2019, reigniting the spark that had once driven him.

Now, Dean’s work continues to evolve, with a focus on black and white photography, a medium he feels allows him to strip away distractions and capture the true essence of his subjects. His photography is not just a craft but an ongoing journey of self-expression, driven by a passion for breaking boundaries and embracing his creative vision.

Dean wishes to recognize the creators and photographers who have been instrumental in helping him stay true to his artistic vision.

"Thanks for the years of guidance, support, honest opinions, critiques, and always being there in times of need" - Dean

Glenn Mckimmon, Adam Resch, Jordan Wheatley, Tim Wrate, Andrew Cooney, Kaid Burgess, and Karl Strand. If Karl hadn't given Dean a camera to help him get back on his feet, Dean wouldn't be sharing his story here, camera in hand.

Finally, a special shoutout to Dean's Wife Candice, and kids Bodhi, Kai, Marli for their unwavering support and honesty, without whom Dean Maguire Photography wouldn't be possible.

 

 

“Thank you all for visiting my page, I sincerely hope you have enjoyed my work”

                                                                                  Dean Maguire