UPY 2025

UPY  Behaviour - Runner Up
'Face to face'
JingGong Zhang

This is a picture of blenny in a fight. It is a species of chaenopsid blenny found around Japan and South Korea. Its most distinctive feature is its very cool hairstyle, which is often referred to as Punk Blenny or Mohican Blenny. In fact, this kind of Blenny fight scene is very rare because they usually just stay in their lair and don't interact with other individuals. But during the breeding season, if an area is too densely populated, the blenny will engage in fierce fights for a mate, and these fights are often quickly settled.
Blenny is one of my favorite projects. From getting information to the long waiting and searching, it took me about three years intermittently to shoot this scene. I would like to thank my Japanese friends who have helped me in this process. At the same time, I am very honored to share this charming moment.

Judge's comment: Thank you for your detailed 'Back Story'. The dedication you put into this project is commendable. The composition of the two blenny and the peak of the action are amazing. The black background sets off the drama, it would never have worked if it was any other back ground colour.
- Martin Edge