Founder and creative director of Pacific Media House, Tom Vierus, is passionate about the environment and capturing nature’s beauty through his camera.
He is a professional photographer, filmmaker and marine biologist.
“My work is usually divided between environmental assignments, sustainable tourism promotion content creation, and some commercial shootings,” he said.
“I first came to Fiji in 2015, but returned to Germany for about two years before returning and establishing my business.
“I have lived in Fiji for over three years.”
Fiji underwater diving – Tom Vierus.
What Are Your Hobbies?
I am lucky to say that my hobby and my job are the same. I love taking photos – on land, in the air and underwater, and love creating impactful films that touch people emotions. I love the oceans and most things related to them, especially diving!
Just generally being outdoors, all things adventure, and gardening. I also love ‘birding’, which basically means to go out with a camera or trying to find, observe and photograph specific birds.
Colo i Suva – Tom Vierus.
How Many Places Have You Visited So Far In Fiji?
Because of the nature of my work, I was able to travel to a few islands in Fiji, such as Vanua Levu, Kadavu, Taveuni, Ovalau, Wakaya, Beqa, and the Yasawas and Mamanucas and a few other smaller islands.
I have also been in a few diving expeditions that took me to some more remote and harder-to-access places which I really enjoyed. I love exploring, and when I can do it with my camera on an assignment – even better.
The view from Mt Korobaba, overlooking Lami and the Suva harbour.
What’s One Place In Fiji You’d Take Every Visitor To, And Why?
Living in Suva, I’d definitely take visitors to two of my favourite getaways around here: Mount Korobaba and the Colo-i-Suva rainforest park.
Korobaba offers a beautiful short hike up to a spectacular view over Suva City and the whole bay area, and Colo reminds me of Fiji’s lush forests and wilderness. I used to walk every day through Colo-i-Suva, and have taken hundreds of photos of the birds and trees – from the early morning light to almost complete darkness. The place can be magical.
Suva foreshore.
What Is Your Secret Backyard Favourite Spot?
I’d say the Suva foreshore at low tide.
We walk our dog there most days, and besides just being a great walk, the sunsets can be stunning, and there are lots of interesting shorebirds and other life of the intertidal zone to be discovered!
Bulaccino Fiji
What Is Your Favourite Place In Fiji For A Pie/Coffee?
I used to do quite a bit of computer work in cafes back in the day and would mostly go to Bulaccino. They have great coffee, and most importantly, they have a good variety of vegan food.
I have been living plant-based for more than seven years and love to support businesses that offer these options!
An island in the Lau group.
What Is The One Fiji Spot On The Top Of Your Bucket List?
I’d really love to explore the Lau group and hope to make it happen this year.
Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj