SHAPED BY THE SEA

Diving off Scotland’s west coastline, camera in hand, wildlife cameraman Doug Allan explores the marine life among the kelp as it sways with the rhythm of the waves. ‘When seals come up quite close, it’s always a privilege to encounter another mammal like that underwater in the wild – they’re choosing to spend time near me. And while dogfish and sharks sneak around, I’ll find colourful anemones and crabs among the rocks,’ says Scottish-born Doug. Throughout his illustrious 35-year career, he has worked on more than 65 films, including the BBC’s Blue Planet, Ocean Giants and Life in the Freezer.

‘Off the Scottish coast, visibility can be 30m if you’re lucky, but it’s as diverse down there as on a coral reef.’ While the conditions might not be as predictable as