UPY 2025

UPY  Compact - Highly Commended
'Carp in the river a few days after a flood'
Jack Berthomier

Every year, during the heavy rain season, the rivers of New Caledonia overflow and their level exceeds 3 to 4 metres. The very strong current tears trees along the banks and drags them for several kilometres . A few days after a flood even if the current remains strong I will spend several days with friends who live on the banks of the Ouenghi river in search of green waste, leaves, branches etc. in which are hung the edges . New Caledonian carp, the most common fish in our rivers, are looking for insects that have remained stuck in this waste and it is common to see them come and swallow something on the surface. You have to stay on the lookout in the same place sometimes several hours to capture this precise moment. This image is the perfect example of this behavior which requires patience and a little luck to be successful.

Judge's comment: This is a beautiful image, without a doubt. But was too similar to our category winner from last year, by the same photographer to place higher this time. - Alex Mustard