Lens Across Navies: Welsh Photographer's Journey from Royal Navy to Royal Australian Navy

Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts brings decades of global experience to his new role with the RAN.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:44am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, geometric illustration featuring sweeping, smooth gradients and towering forced perspectives, conveying the grand scale and technical prowess of the Australian military through the eyes of a skilled photographer.A striking visual representation of the global reach and technical expertise of the Australian Defence Force, as captured through the lens of a seasoned military photographer.Bethesda Today

Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts, known as 'Iggy' across the English and Australian fleets, has had an extensive career as a photographer spanning over 20 years and multiple countries. After transferring from the Royal Navy to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) three years ago, he has continued to capture powerful imagery, winning the 2025 RAN Rosemary Rodwell Prize for his photo 'Royal Flush'. Despite his many accolades, Roberts remains humble about his contributions to the Australian Defence Force.

Why it matters

Roberts' diverse experience and award-winning photography provide a unique perspective on the work of the Australian military, showcasing the important role that imagery specialists play in documenting the actions and operations of the nation's armed forces.

The details

Roberts first took up photography in his hometown of Bethesda, Wales, before joining the Royal Navy. Over the years, he has traveled to over 20 countries, including working with the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Jamaican police force's anti-drugs squad. He also completed training with the Royal Marines before deploying to Afghanistan. Roberts ultimately transferred to the RAN after meeting his Australian wife, Michaela, during Exercise Long Look, a four-month exchange program.

  • Roberts first took up photography in his hometown of Bethesda, Wales.
  • He joined the Royal Navy and began his extensive global travels.
  • Roberts completed training with the Royal Marines before deploying to Afghanistan.
  • He met his Australian wife, Michaela, during Exercise Long Look and transferred to the RAN three years ago.
  • In 2025, Roberts won the RAN Rosemary Rodwell Prize for his image 'Royal Flush'.

The players

Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts

A Welsh photographer who has served in both the Royal Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, capturing powerful imagery from his travels around the world.

Michaela

Roberts' Australian wife, whom he met during Exercise Long Look, leading to his transfer to the RAN.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I once spent two weeks with the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo working with Angelina Jolie.”

— Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts, Photographer

“In Jamaica I was with the police force's anti-drugs squad, where I did a dawn raid on a known drug dealer.”

— Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts, Photographer

“Transferring to the RAN was never on the cards until I met her, and it remains the best decision I've ever made.”

— Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts, Photographer

“For me, the Australian Defence Force is where all the strongest and most meaningful imagery comes from. I'm just glad to be a part of it and contribute my little bit.”

— Leading Seaman Ioan Roberts, Photographer

The takeaway

Roberts' diverse experiences and award-winning photography showcase the important role that imagery specialists play in documenting the work of the Australian military, providing a unique perspective on the nation's armed forces and their global operations.