UPY 2025

UPY  British Waters Compact - Commended
'Time and Plaice'
Martin Edser

Drift diving is one of my favourite types of dive. Diving on the Ledges at Brighton is one I have done many times and in varying conditions. It normally gives an opportunity to come across a variety of the UK’s marine life. This was taken in mid-summer with a fair degree of Plankton in the water causing visibility issues and a green background. Spotting this Plaice sat on top of one of the ledges gave a brief opportunity to take an unusual angle of a fish that is normally only seen from above. My buddy in the background helps to give drama to the shot. I try to photograph common species in unusual angles and I love the look of surprise on the fishes face with the diver looming over it. Using a wide angle lens really helps in these conditions allowing me to get close to the subject.

Judge's comment: It just goes to show that great images are possible in limited visibility. The water column between lens and subject is kept to a minimum with a wide angle lens and even though the background diver is masked in plankton his light is perfectly placed. It’s easy to leave the camera behind if the viz looks bad but this shot encourages otherwise.
- Peter Rowlands