I am Dawn McDonald

An avid traveler, scuba diver and photographer for over 20 years, my mission is to bring the natural world, especially the mysterious beauty of the ocean depths, to people who might not have the opportunity to experience it firsthand.

I’ve seen dramatic changes to our environment in a relatively short amount of time, particularly in marine life. Much of my photography is inspired by my support for the advocacy and conservation of these amazingly unique and varied sea creatures. From the wide-angle of a whale shark, to the macro image of a pygmy seahorse, this passion informs my entire body of work. My happy place is under the sea, and I want to share its magnificence with as many people as I can so that they might learn to love and protect it as I do.

Above the water, I strive to photograph wildlife, landscapes and seascapes as fine art. I love exploring the interplay of light and shadow, and am especially drawn to stormy skies and crashing waves, capturing the impact of nature and the elements all along the coast.  Calmer weather lends itself to long exposures, peaceful scenes, and starry skies.

My photography has been featured in various exhibits throughout Massachusetts, and I’ve been honored to receive numerous awards, including Best in Show for Photography from the Newburyport Art Association and the Gerald R O’Brien Memorial Award for Excellence in Photography from the Rockport Art Association.  I was privileged to have my first solo show, Fisheye: My Under Water Vision, at the Rockport Art Association and Museum in October 2022.

My art business has been designated as a "Trusted Art Seller" with The Art Storefronts Organization, which means you can shop with confidence, and know that I stand behind the quality and value of my products.