Alex McNaught has multiple pieces on display at Coastline Art Hub in Kempsey

Alex McNaught has always been a talented photographer, but it wasn't until a sea change that he really started to make it his focus.

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Alex moved to Port Macquarie five years ago, looking to start fresh after quitting his job as a geo-physicist, and finalising a divorce.

He decided to take a punt on himself and start a career in a life long passion, photography.

"I was thinking, 'there is a risk here', where I take something that means a lot to me and what if no-one likes it, but I had one card left to play in the deck, and thought let's see where it goes," Alex said.

It started with a simple market stall, selling prints and mugs, but over time has established himself in the area as a well known, talented photographer.

He currently has multiple photos on display at Art Hub Kempsey, as a part of their November exhibition, which aims to raise awareness for men's mental health by providing male artists a platform to show their work.

The artists receive all of the profits if the works are sold.

Alex was extremely thankful for the opportunity.

"It's amazing and gives a chance for people like me to have an audience, to show my wares, and it makes it possible for me to continue the process that I am going through in terms of healing from my personal circumstances," He said.

He also is a storm chaser, and said he takes calculated risks to get the best photos.

"I love taking photos of live storms, part of my personality profile is that I enjoy risky things, but I also enjoy not getting hurt," Alex said.

"I have literally been under the storm with lighting around me getting photos, but you just need to take that risk."

Storm over Lighthouse Beach. Photo: Alex McNaught

Now with lockdown lifting and things easing up, he has some exciting plans in store for the future.

"I bought a jetski and have been working on it over the last year to have all kinds of long distance capabilities, so I can travel to remote parts of the country," he said.

"I'm after unique shots of Australia that other photographers aren't getting because it's too hard to do."

He plans to make a calendar from his journeys and have it ready for next year.

If you want to see Alex's or other artists' works, the Community Hub is located at 26 Smith Street, Kempsey.

Alex McNaught's website: www.roving-eye.com

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