Ocean Baptism in the Thames Estuary at Southend-on-Sea – My Photograph of the year 2026

Last year, I reflected that I didn’t seem to have a clear stand out “best” photograph to share for this series, but this year I feel a little different. Another religious event I was documenting, this time Christian, the Apostles of Muchinjikwa as they gather in Southend-on-Sea for a baptism in the ocean. This year was stormy, and quite dangerous, and I felt good about my decision to cover exclusively with my Nikonos, with GoPro attached, all fully water sealed and ready for those conditions.

There are several frames from the day that stand out above anything else I’ve shot this year, as the moody weather and impeccable traditional robes were absolutely perfect in black and white, on Delta 400 which I used throughout the day. However, the standout even to me, is this one, caught as one of the men began to shout out in a moment of elevated devotion, a trance like state and crescendo in rhythm with the ocean and wind.

Similarly to last years event, this was not without “controversy” and I recieved messages after sharing the series of images from the day regarding the fact that, to some Christians, this kind of annual baptismal service is actually heresy. This is actually the topic of what was apparently once voted the best religious joke of all time, by the legendary comedian Emo Phillips:

“Once I saw this guy on a bridge about to jump. I said, “Don’t do it!” He said, “Nobody loves me.” I said, “God loves you. Do you believe in God?”

He said, “Yes.” I said, “Are you a Christian or a Jew?” He said, “A Christian.” I said, “Me, too! Protestant or Catholic?” He said, “Protestant.” I said, “Me, too! What franchise?” He said, “Baptist.” I said, “Me, too! Northern Baptist or Southern Baptist?” He said, “Northern Baptist.” I said, “Me, too! Northern Conservative Baptist or Northern Liberal Baptist?”

He said, “Northern Conservative Baptist.” I said, “Me, too! Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region, or Northern Conservative Baptist Eastern Region?” He said, “Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region.” I said, “Me, too!”

Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1879, or Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1912?” He said, “Northern Conservative Baptist Great Lakes Region Council of 1912.” I said, “Die, heretic!” And I pushed him over.”

The GoPro, and a few clips Amanda caught on her camcorder, gave me enough footage to make a short video from the day. I think it’s great to have this kind of supplemental work to accompany a main piece of work, and while my heart is in photography, I have been spending more time learning video oriented skills.

My favourite film I’ve made this year is, of course, my first feature length documentary, which is about street photographers in London.

It’s been a productive year, even if moment to moment I feel overwhelmed and overtaken by the projects I’ve taken on. It’s a great opportunity to look back and really appreciate that progress, and I’m grateful to Hamish and the rest of the community here for offering a space to share my feelings and thoughts with others on the same path.

🙂

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