UPY 2025

UPY  Compact - Highly Commended
'Squat lobster in crinoid'
Ilaria Mariagiulia Rizzuto

I found this small crustacean inside the crinoid I portrayed it with a pose and light that made it like the center of a vortex. It was very difficult, because this is a secretive species and also one that rarely stays still. I photographed it in Puerto Galera, in the Philippines, which is a place full of both sand and coral diving. You can find many crinoids here and study their mutualistic relationships, like this one. I think the particular aspect of this image is the central composition with the vortex effect that draws the eye towards the subject.

Judge's comment: This swirling whirlpool of crinoid arms sucks our eyes straight towards the tiny, camouflaged squat lobster, which makes its home here.
Alex Mustard