Nova West (They/Them) is an up-and-coming filmmaker, photographer, and visual artist. Nova’s career has been working in the oceanography/marine sciences industry as an expedition documentarian and an independent filmmaker focusing on LGBTQIA representation in science and marine science advocacy topics through beautifully compelling imagery that is sure to inspire.

Nova, would you tell us a bit about what you do for a living?

“I’m primarily a filmmaker who works on television shows and documentaries as a camera operator specializing in underwater cinematography. Having spent over 200 days at sea, I also contract with a deep-sea exploration vessel as a video engineer and expedition documentarian. I’m also an artist, illustrator, graphic designer, and photographer, among many things!”

What kinds of education and training did you pursue to start working in this industry? 

“Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental and Outdoor Education, minor in Art; PADI Rescue Diver; FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot”

How did you become interested in filmmaking and what inspired you to pursue it?

“Honestly, I fell into this field by accident. When I was graduating college I had no idea what direction I was going in, I just knew that I loved being outside and creating art. I managed to land an ‘unofficial’ internship with National Geographic post-college, which made me realize I could shoot for the stars. Fast forward 7 years later, and I am now a National Geographic Explorer, iLCP member, and deep-sea explorer!”

What do you think young women and gender minorities should know about being an expedition documentarian? How can this help them as they prepare for the workforce? 

“My biggest takeaway is to know that you have a place in this industry. Growing up, I had never seen someone like me in this field, so I had to become the person I needed when I was younger. Sometimes you have to forge the path for others, which makes it all the more worth it to chase after your dreams. Chase your passions and let your imagination run wild. Don’t ever let anyone tell you you can’t do it.”

What advice can you give to young women and gender minorities who may be trying to navigate a career path similar to yours?

“Reach out! Ask people who are doing what you want to do how they got there and what led them down that path. It looks different for everyone, but your network is so important to gaining opportunities, skills, and further connections.”

Anything else you think we should know about you?

“My first film, Diving for Rays, was released on Waterbear Network in 2023, which is about Queer access to STEM fields. Similarly, I’ve also released a short documentary, Project Lemon Aid, in 2024 that uncovers the importance of diversity and local initiatives in shark science. Currently, I’m working on my National Geographic Explorer project, which will be coming out in late 2024/early 2025. Stay tuned for all of the wild (currently under NDA) projects I’ve been working on! Lastly, as much as I am a filmmaker, I consider myself an artist first and foremost. If anyone is interested in seeing how art beyond film and photography can play an important role in science, I have field drawings that I’ve created across all of my travels and adventures!”

Nova’s Work

Science Communication Resources: