UPY 2025

UPY 2018 British Waters Macro - Runner Up
'Topshell tapestry'
Cathy Lewis

During a dive on the Manacles I came across a Painted topshell on a furry-looking kelp blade. This fluffy growth is actually a hydroid, made up of zigzag strings of tiny organisms. Both subjects are somewhat unremarkable but I thought there was potential for a simple, graphic shot, using the hydroids to create a textured background. I angled the strobes in towards the camera to create a very shallow beam, allowing the light to reach the shell and hydroids but keeping the drab brown kelp in darkness. The strands of hydroid lit up rather nicely, allowing the colourful topshell to ‘pop’ from its delicate lacy backdrop.

Judge's comment: So simple yet beautifully executed. The angle of the painted topshell within the picture frame is compositionally perfect and there are so many angles in which to approach this. The author (in my opinion) has chosen the best one, which in turn allows the eye of the viewer to sink into the background with the harsh, contrasty, monochrome look. Love it! Martin Edge