6 - Underwater Photographer of the Year

UPY Black & White - Highly Commended
'Synchronised Batfish'
Jade Hoksbergen

A pair of young batfish, almost like each other’s shadow, in a synchronised underwater dance. They are a beautiful fish, with juveniles sporting disproportionately long fins and bold vertical bands of black. However, their striking appearance is accompanied by a shy wariness, and they have become famous for giving divers the side-eye. With hours dedicated to gentle acquaintance, they eventually grew comfortable in my presence, even curious. Once “the ice was broken”, so to speak, they were happy to face me, which allowed me to create this portrait of the duo. I must say I was relieved to no longer be at the receiving end of a side-eye (or two)!

Judge's comment: A simple composition that is transformed into a fabulous composition by conversion into monochrome, which is exactly what this category is all about. Great image.
Alex Mustard

You can use the Prev/Next buttons, left and right cursors or swipe to go to the previous or next image