About
Ocean storyteller. Photographer. Always drawn to the water.
The ocean is where everything slows down for me.
It’s where I feel most like myself—grounded, present, and connected. That feeling is what I aim to capture through my work.
I’m Sammy! An ocean and surf photographer based on the Outer Banks.
My connection to photography started early, with a retro Polaroid at seven years old, and later a DSLR that quickly became a way of seeing and understanding the world around me.
Over time, that curiosity turned into a deeper focus on documenting people, movement, and emotion. While I explored different paths, including wedding photography, everything eventually led me back to the ocean.
The water became more than a subject. It became a place of grounding, clarity, and creative energy. It become a space where storytelling felt the most natural.
That’s where Swell Stories was born.
Swell Stories is where my love for the ocean, surfing, and storytelling come together.
Through imagery and reflection, I capture both the energy and stillness of the water. Creating something that feels personal, honest, and lasting. It’s not just about what a moment looks like, but what it feels like to be in it.
When I’m not in the water, you’ll probably find me searching for shark teeth, working in my garden, or creating something with my hands; whether that’s seashell jewelry, painting, or baking.
I’m always listening to music (everything from reggae to alternative metal), and I love getting lost in books; especially mysteries, autobiographies, and historical deep-dives.
These slower, creative moments are what keep me grounded and they naturally find their way into how I see and capture the world.