UPY 2025

UPY  My Backyard - Highly Commended
'Two Worlds at Casino Point'
Renee Capozzola

This split-level image was taken near my hometown in Southern California at Casino Point on the island of Catalina, which is a protected marine preserve. I took this picture in late May, 2020, just after the island opened back up to diving and was very fortunate to visit on a day when practically no one else was there. Since the water was relatively calm and clear, I decided to spend the first part of my morning capturing some half and half shots in the shallows with the iconic Catalina Casino in the background. In order to produce this image, I used a very small aperture, a higher ISO, and strobes to light the underwater portion of the image.

Judge's comment: Judging the new My Backyard award we were very aware that each underwater photographer has very different subjects available to them in their local spot. I think quite a few would love to have a scene as spectacular as this in easy reach.
- Alex Mustard