UPY 2025

UPY  Compact - Highly Commended
'A different crib'
Andrea Michelutti

This small tube sponge crab was hiding inside the sponge to safeguard itself and its precious cargo of orange eggs. I opted to light the scene with both flashes, to include the background in the composition. After a long wait, my patience was rewarded by this endearing pose of the creature. The direct gaze, strategic placement atop the sponge, and the eggs nestled within the claws, all add depth to this environmental portrait.

Judge's comment: The judges loved the pose of this secretive crab emerging from the sponge, and then in this monochromatic frame you realise why it is shy. It is carrying bright orange eggs. The off centre composition works perfectly to reinforce the feeling of a secret critter being revealed.
Alex Mustard