Articles

Photographer of the Week – Scott “Gutsy” Tuason

By Lia Barrett, June 5, 2014 @ 02:00 AM (EST)

Scalloped hammerhead shark, Darwin Island, Galápagos

When you have a nickname like “Gutsy,” you might have to spend your life trying to fulfill big expectations. Apparently, though, our Photographer of the Week Scott Gutsy Tuason was so aptly named because he had a ravenous appetite as a toddler. The name seems to have stuck with him and is definitely an appropriate description for the sort of life he leads today.

Larval anemone, Palau

Scott gives nothing short of absolute dedication to getting his shots. Whether he’s tied by a line in the middle of black water somewhere over deep ocean in the dark of night to shoot passing macro pelagics, or sticking his nose into a bait-ball feeding frenzy, Gutsy will tell you that he “thrives on thrills.”

But one flip through his portfolio will explain why he does what he does. His images are dynamic, telling, and filled with beautifully captured behavioral portrayals. His mode of mediums is interchangeable, and the geographic footprint of his images tells the story of a man well-traveled and a life spent in pursuit of some of the most wonderful treasures this world holds.

Dusky shark and sardines, East London, South Africa

Gutsy has been shooting since he was 16 and has made underwater photography his life passion. He lives and works in the Philippines, has co-authored a book on Anilao, and finds great pleasure in being an avenue of inspiration in spreading ocean conservation messages through his work. Partnering with World Wildlife Fund Philippines and the Department of Tourism, Scott has worked in support of whales and sharks in the Coral Triangle, and has participated in several campaigns to spread awareness over the national public.