Book to showcase Mandurah wetlands

A new photo book showcasing the wonders of the Mandurah wetlands will go on sale in October.

Peel photographer David Rennie, who was named Australian Geographic ANZANG nature photographer of the year in 2013, said almost all of the book's photographs were taken over a three-year period at marshlands across the region.

Mr Rennie said the Art in Nature initiative was born out of a deep desire to share his experiences of wildlife photography with fellow Peel residents.

He had hoped to put together a publication sooner, but was faced with costs of up to $100,000.

"It was after they spotted me on Australian Story in March this year, that a publisher came forward and asked me if I would do a book," Mr Rennie said. "It was great because I had already been thinking that was what I would like to do.

"I'm hoping to put on a launch in Mandurah at the end of October."

Mr Rennie said he started photographing nature just three years ago in a bid to beat bipolar disorder.

He said he had never looked back, and could often be found trawling through the region's wetlands, waiting to capture the perfect shot of a bird, or other native creature.

Publisher Exisle chief executive Gareth St John Thomas said the NSW-based publishing house was delighted to have the opportunity to work alongside Mr Rennie.

Mr Thomas said Art in Nature would be accompanied by glimpses into his own life.

"David's photographic work, his commitment to the environmental cause and his personal story are rich with complexity and integrity," he said.