"So many exciting visual events happen around us continuously - displaying magic, courage and the determination of spirit. 
Seizing the essence of that spirit in an image - to relive or rekindle its power when viewed at another time - is what I strive to do.
Either you do it - or you don't. There is no half way."
- Doug Elsey, P.Eng. photographer / ocean engineer/ undersea explorer 



All images and copy are © 2000-2008 Doug Elsey and may not  be reproduced in any form without express permission.

Testimonials:

“Doug Elsey is a masterful documentary photographer. An essential member of my Arctic expeditions, he has an uncanny ability to "see" the shot and capture its essence. His experience as a ocean engineer and explorer of the natural world add unique dimensions to his work."
  —Dr. Joe MacInnis, physician-scientist, undersea explorer and author

 “In the last 20 years, our firm has contracted Doug Elsey to document a number of our major underwater projects in Canada, the U.S. and overseas. In his style of work, he combines the precision of a trained engineer with the eye and sensibility of an artist. He consistently turns in material that is not only thoroughly detailed, but also aesthetically pleasing. We are well satisfied with the results that Doug has obtained for us, and will continue to use his services in the future.”
- Dr. Phil Nuytten, Technologist – Businessman President, Nuytco Research Ltd./Can-Dive Construction

“Doug Elsey has photographed the Deep Divers from the Norwegian Navy using their underwater breathing equipment during several exercises. His ability to capture the drama of our equipment being used in the world’s most hostile and harsh marine environments has enabled us to prove beyond a doubt that we have tough gear for tough people. His value as a documentary photographer to tell our story is done with stunning and hard hitting images that capture the moment and the emotions both in arctic as well as tropical environments. He displays the NATO Special Forces Deep Divers in an excellent manner.”
- Norwegian Naval Special Warfare Group - EOD Commandos (Citation)

 
Doug Elsey on assignment in Norway
(Photo: On assignment in N
 Photo: On photo assignment in the Norwegian high Arctic (where taking gloves off is a BAD idea!)  © W.Korsvik		      Doug Elsey is a Canadian documentary photographer specializing in expedition and adventure photo documentation for corporate clients - including National Geographic, NATO Special Forces, the Canadian Department of National Defence and Popular Science magazine.

Doug Elsey uses his professional engineering background and photographic skills to create unique and dramatic images. "Doug's the kind of photographer you want when it's 4 a.m. and the temperature is forty below," says expedition leader Dr. Joe MacInnis, " he's smart, tough, and determined to get the impossible shot. And he does it with a wicked sense of humour."

Doug Elsey works with his clients to design the most effective way "to get the image." He also gives keynote presentations on "The Adventure of Getting the Image." To contact him, or inquire about purchasing his stock images, click on the image to the left.

                                                                                   

Partial Client List

  • National Geographic Society - High Arctic and underwater photo documentation of major scientific expeditions.
  • National Geographic Adventure Magazine
  • Air Canada Enroute Magazine.
  • TV Ontario
  • Canadian Dept. of National Defence.
  • Toronto Sun Newspaper
  • Popular Mechanics Magazine
  • Science Magazine
  • The Globe and Mail Newspaper
  • Book cover "Breathing Underwater" - Dr. Joe MacInnis.
  • NATO Special Forces.
  • Icelandic Coast Guard EOD Command
  • Norwegian Naval EOD Commando
  • White Squall Paddling Centre .
  • Oceaneering Intl. (cinematography)
  • Diver Magazine
  • Adventure Kayak Magazine
  • numerous websites, newspapers, books and  magazines....