UPY 2025

UPY  Up & Coming - Highly Commended
'Shortfin mako'
Jules Jacobs

Once a common sight in San Diego’s waters, mako sharks suffer from their prominent and attractive dorsal fins, a literal target on their back for use in Shark Fin soup. Found mainly on the high seas, their conservation falls to the international community. After earning CITES Appendix II protection in 2019, this species is on the uptick. To ensure their future in San Diego’s waters, we must ensure that Makos are protected throughout the whole of their pelagic home, not just in any one nation’s waters. As I watched the shark look into my camera’s domeport, I felt it study my movements. I left the water, sharing an interaction that could be described as the mutual respect and curiosity of two sentient creatures. I left knowing that we must do everything possible to protect them and their pelagic home.

As I watched the shark look into my camera’s domeport, I felt it study my movements. I left the water, sharing an interaction that could be described as the mutual respect and curiosity of two sentient creatures. I left knowing that we must do everything possible to protect them and their pelagic home.

Judge's comment: What a nice and artistic split shot! The image caught my attention from the beginning and was one of my favourites for the top three as well. Excellent light from the strobes. Well done!
Tobias Friedrich