UPY  British Waters Living Together - Highly Commended}

UPY  British Waters Living Together - Highly Commended
'Pash and pal'
Martyn Guess

This image was shot at Lundy Island UK the home of a large colony of Grey Seals. I go there to dive with the Seal pups at least once every year. It is a truly amazing experience. My friend Pash Baker was free diving and using her brightly coloured free diving fins which attracted this little guy. He simply wouldn't leave her alone, even when she was coming up for air. In the late afternoon sun Pash was surrounded by strong sun beams which I think really help make the image pop. The interaction of both diver and Seal, the grasping of the fin and the eye contact between them completes the story. Shot with the amazing Nauticam WACP, giving me a zoom capability on my full frame camera, which helped me to quickly compose the image in the split second that the action all came together.

Judge's comment: A joyous photo, showing a seal gently approaching and interacting with a snorkeller. A perfect poster for one of many recreational opportunities in our seas.
Alex Mustard