Biography

Rian Cope (b. 1986, QLD, Australia) is a Paris-based photojournalist and documentary producer, working globally across remote-location shoots and human-focused stories. His background spans news, commercial, and broadcast work, with clients ranging from media outlets and NGOs to brands, government bodies, and streaming platforms.

He first stepped into storytelling through Eat.Sleep.Surf, a travel-meets-adventure TV series he co-created and hosted, exploring remote coastlines and the communities that live by them. That early mix of culture, travel, and documentary filmmaking still runs through his work today.

Rian’s photography blends cinematic framing with raw, unfiltered moments - often focusing on culture, people, and the quiet rhythms of everyday life. Whether working with digital or film cameras, his approach is hands-on and grounded in trust, with a strong emphasis on connection and authenticity.

Alongside his photojournalism, Rian continues to work in video, branded content, sport, and travel - bringing the same focus on story and substance to each project. This broad experience informs his shift toward more narrative-driven work: stories that amplify unheard voices, highlight environmental and social issues, and capture life in places often overlooked.

He continues to work with Nikon Australia as a Creator and Education Lead.


Work

2025 – Documentary Project: “Unveiled” – Independent / Ongoing
2025 – Paris Marathon 2025 – Nikon 
2025 – Paris Fashion Week 25 – The Lab Fashion Week Paris
2025 – Documentary Project: “Echoes of Elsewhere” – Independent / Ongoing
2024/25 – Eyes on Paris – Personal Series
2024/25 – Photojournalism Mentorship Program – Agencé France Presse x Spéos, Paris
2023 – Heart of Australia – Remote Multimedia Production – Nikon/Harley Davidson 
2023 – Dust and Light” – Middle East Series - Nikon 
2022 – Destination Dessert – Sloane Media – Network Ten
2021/22 – Subaru's Great Australian Detour– Sloane Media – Network Nine
2021 – Creator & Education Lead – Nikon School, Australia & Remote (Ongoing)
2019 – ScUBER campaign – Tourism Queensland & UBER 
2018 – Port Douglas Daintree Ambassador 
2014 – Series Sequel: “EatSleepSurf - Taiwan” – Streaming Apple TV & Prime Video 
2014 – Muru – Crossing the Gibson & Great Sandy Deserts -  
2011 – Series Sequel: “EatSleepSurf - New Zealand” – Streaming Apple TV & Prime Video 
2009 – Series Launch: “EatSleepSurf - Banda Aceh” – Streaming Apple TV & Prime Video  


Selected Clients

  • Tourism Australia
  • Nikon Australia 
  • Harley Davidson
  • TEQ
  • Merrell
  • Bankwest
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • Escape Magazine
  • We Are Explorers
  • Prime Video
  • Apple TV +
  • Marmot
  • Lord Howe Island
  • Fjällräven 
Using Format