Finalists from nine different countries were selected in five categories: Awaken New Depths, Small Island Developing States, Big and Small Underwater Faces, Underwater Seascapes, and Above Water Seascapes. Winners were chosen from thousands of global entries submitted by both amateur and professional photographers. Scroll down to see the awarded images and to learn more about one of the winning photos taken by Australian photographer Vanessa Mignon.
More info: worldoceanday.org | Instagram | divephotoguide.com We asked Mignon to tell us more about the moment she captured in her photograph. We learned that: “I have always enjoyed observing behaviour, and that’s why I went to Baja California; I was hoping to witness the majestic aggregation of mobula rays. We were lucky to see several groups but always in murky waters. One day we decided to head out at sea and look for them in deeper, bluer waters. We were lucky to encounter that group. I remember feeling mesmerized as I watched them move. It looked like a synchronised, hypnotic dance.” Also, I always make sure I work with local operators who are experienced and licenced, and who are mindful around animals. For example, if you decide to go on a whale swim trip, make sure the operator has the relevant permit in place. This will ensure that the crew has received the relevant training on how to approach the animals, read the behaviour, etc. It will also ensure your safety as typically boats also need to be assessed (length, safety equipment, etc.) as part of the permit obtention.” Follow Bored Panda on Google News! Follow us on Flipboard.com/@boredpanda! Please use high-res photos without watermarks Ooops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.
