UPY 2025

UPY  British Waters Compact - Commended
'Fluo rockpool'
James Lynott

I had the idea of taking a split-level shot with fluorescing snakelocks anemones back in 2020 when friend and dive buddy Alasdair O’dell showed me a rockpool that was full of snakelocks, and just so happened to be in a great location. It wasn’t until some time later that I was able to finally try and capture the image I had in mind. Careful planning, and a bit of luck, was needed in order to get the optimum conditions needed! I usually use blue light for underwater fluorescence, but a UV light was perfect for this as it allowed me to capture these images without the need for a yellow filter which would impact the above water view.
Using a tripod setup allowed me to position my camera and take images with a smaller aperture and slower shutter, while aiming the UV torch by hand.

Judge's comment: An inventive and fantastic image. An idea worth refining. A more attractive sky could see this type of image at the top of the tree. - Alex Mustard