About
Hello welcome to my world of photography! I’m Udantha Chandraratne, most people know me as Dan. With over 10 years of experience behind the lens, I’ve dedicated my career to capturing the essence of sports, portraiture, nature, and everything in between.
Come and create with me, where every moment is an opportunity to capture the magic. Whether you're looking to book a session for portraits, sports events, special occasions, or simply to explore the beauty of nature, I'm here to bring your vision to life with vibrant color and precision. Let's embark on a journey together and immortalize your memories in stunning photographs.
My journey
Originally from Kandy, Sri Lanka, my passion for photography was sparked by my love for nature. Growing up, I was constantly traveling with my family, which ignited my curiosity and passion for capturing the world around me. My journey has taken me from the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka to the snowy terrains of Turku, Finland, and eventually to the rugged beauty of Newfoundland.
In 2019, I moved to Newfoundland to pursue my education and passion for photography. The stunning natural landscapes and the massive Puffin colonies were too alluring to resist. I transferred to Memorial University from my previous college in Florida, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Academic Background
I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from Memorial University of Newfoundland (2019-2023), where I integrated studies in biology and computer science, and was recognized as a Phi Theta Kappa International College Honor Society alumnus. Prior to this, I graduated with highest honors from Broward College, Florida, in 2018, earning an Associate degree in Art, which enriched my scientific pursuits with a robust understanding of the arts. My academic journey also includes a general degree in Computer Science from Turku University of Applied Sciences in Finland, where I developed technical proficiency and digital literacy. This diverse educational background across three countries has equipped me with a unique blend of skills and perspectives, fostering my growth as a versatile professional in media, marketing, and photography.
Photography Career
My journey into photography began with a focus on nature, particularly birds. Capturing birds in flight honed my skills in tracking fast-moving subjects, which seamlessly transitioned into sports photography. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with multiple notable brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Basketball Canada, Atlantic University Sport (AUS), Memorial University, Rocks Sports Academy, U Sports, Nikon Canada, NL Eats, PIE Media Group, Cheer Sharks, Destination St. John's, Dance Quest Canada, Skills Canada, Quidi Vidi Artisan Studios, Volleyball Newfoundland, Basketball Newfoundland, Soccer Newfoundland, School Sports Newfoundland, Cheer Newfoundland, Artistic Swimming Newfoundland, and Rogues Basketball Newfoundland.
In 2023, I was honored to be the Canadian National Winner in Photography at Skills Canada in Winnipeg. Today, as the proud photographer for the Memorial University Sea-Hawks, I capture the intensity and emotion of sports, portraits, special events, and nature. This diverse portfolio has allowed me to grow as a versatile photographer, dedicated to capturing the world in its most authentic form.