Frequently Asked Questions

How long have you been doing this work? 

A life-long storyteller, I honed my writing and photography skills as a student at the UNC School of Journalism, where I also learned audio and video production. I graduated with a B.A. in Journalism and a minor in Spanish.  

I have been working as a professional photographer, videographer, and science writer since 2012. I began specializing in documenting field work and research expeditions in 2015.

When I’m not working at sea or in the field, I enjoy visiting classrooms to speak with students about expedition work, science communication, and untraditional career paths.

What is the most extreme thing you’ve ever done?  

Skydiving, swimming with sharks, jumping into icy Antarctic water — I find those sorts of experiences exhilarating. But the “most extreme” thing I’ve ever done was leave the safety and security of a good job (with a lovely boss and great co-workers) to navigate the volatile world of full-time freelance work.

It is also the most rewarding and fulfilling decision I have ever made!

Where are you located?

Central North Carolina is home base, but I spend much of my time traveling. In 2023, I spent five months in other places, including 100 days living and working at sea.

With a current passport, a clean bill of health (including current flu shot and COVID vaccinations) and a few well-worn pairs of boots and backpacks, I am available to work on projects anywhere in the world.

Do you collaborate with other photographers and videographers? 

Absolutely! While I often work independently (expedition teams can typically only bring along one outreach person) I always welcome the opportunity to work with other creative people.

If you are a photographer or videographer looking to collaborate on a project, I would love to hear from you. 

Learn more about me and my professional experience at:

Association of Science Communicators | Marley Parker

Closing the Gap | Marley Parker

Her Wild Vision | Marley Parker

Nautilus Live | Marley Parker

I am a professional photographer, videographer, science writer, and ocean explorer 

I utilize vibrant visuals and narrative storytelling to illustrate the value of scientific research and discovery — typically in the middle of the ocean.

Over the past six years, I have worked with a wide variety of research teams on both domestic and international projects sponsored by the National Science Foundation, NASA, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the Ocean Exploration Trust, the British Geological Survey, and many others. My work has been featured in major media outlets including CNN and CBS, as well as a Ted Talk at the National Academy of Sciences.

Since 2018, I have joined over two dozen ocean science expeditions on various research vessels in the Pacific, the North Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Antarctic Peninsula.

What equipment do you use? 

• Canon bodies and lenses

• GoPro cameras and accessories

• DJI drones

• Nauticam underwater housing

What certifications and licenses do you have?

• PADI Open Water scuba diver (with current DAN insurance)

• PFI Freediver (Level One)

• Wilderness First Responder (including current CPR)

• FAA UAS Remote Pilot Part 107

• Current U.S. Passport (valid through 2025)

What are your favorite science topics to cover?

While I love documenting all kinds of science, I am particularly fascinated by the inner workings of our planet, including geophysics, volcanology, and chemosynthesis in the deep ocean.

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

Mountaineering and scuba diving. In both my personal and professional life, I regularly alternate between the ocean and the mountains.  

Wait, I have more questions! 

Awesome! Head over to my Contact page or shoot me an email at mlparkermedia@gmail.com