Publications

Conservation writing & award-winning photography

Dr Richard Smith has established himself as one of the world's most published marine conservation voices. In addition to his acclaimed book “The World Beneath”, his hundreds of articles and award-winning photographs reach international audiences through leading diving, wildlife, and travel publications.

His work seamlessly integrates scientific expertise, compelling storytelling, and stunning visual documentation, making complex marine biology accessible to diverse global audiences.

Richard's published portfolio spans scientific research, conservation advocacy, field exploration, and visual storytelling. His long-running columns and feature series have educated millions of readers about ocean wildlife, while his award-winning photography has graced dozens of magazine covers worldwide, bringing the ocean's most elusive creatures into the spotlight and advancing marine conservation through powerful imagery.

Published Writing

Richard's expertise in marine biology, conservation, and underwater exploration has made him a sought-after contributor to the world's leading diving and wildlife publications. His writing combines scientific accuracy with engaging storytelling, making complex research accessible to both specialist and general audiences.

Regular columns and series include:

  • Sport Diver UK - Long-running series: 'Photographing Behaviour' & 'Critter Hunting'

  • Sport Diver USA - 'Species' column

  • Sport Diving Australia - Conservation and species features

Published internationally in: Alert Diver USA, Asian Diver Singapore, Scuba Diver AustralAsia, Scuba Diver TTL, Australian Geographic, Asian Geographic, Dive Chronicles USA, FiNS Singapore, Action Asia, DIVE UK, Diver UK, Marine Conservation Society UK, DivePhotoGuide, Tauchen Germany, Wild Travel UK, and 72 & Rising.

Award-Winning Photography

Richard's underwater photography transcends documentation—it serves as a powerful conservation tool and scientific record. His images capture the ocean's most elusive inhabitants, often representing the first and only photographs of rare species in their natural habitat.

Recognition & Achievements:

  • 2019 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year - Winner, Animal Habitat category ('Small but Mighty')

  • Multiple Exhibiting Finalist - Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year (2019 and previous years)

  • Dozens of magazine covers - International diving and wildlife publications

  • High-profile portfolios - Featured in Australian Geographic and other leading magazines

  • Scientific documentation - Only existing photographs of several living, wild marine species

  • Diverse portfolio - Including underwater fashion photography

Ethical Photography

Every image in Richard's portfolio has been captured without manipulation or disturbance to subjects. His PhD research included investigating diver interaction effects on pygmy seahorses, leading to his creation of the first-ever code of conduct for safely photographing these delicate creatures—guidelines now used by photographers and divers worldwide.