UPY 2025

UPY  Black & White - Highly Commended
'The Dutch Tompot Blenny'
Luc Rooman

To create this frame, I literally gritted my teeth during 6 weeks of trying, for several hours each day. But, finally, I managed to get my desired result. Actually, my desired results is not this photo, but I am very satisfied with it. My intention was to highlight only the eye and the outline of the fish. But to my surprise everyone appreciates this variation of composition more than the planned image.

Judge's comment: At first it seems a shame that a colourful fish such as the Tompot Blenny should be reduced to black and white, but here it is an excellent choice because it focuses out attention on the lighting which emphasises the shape, texture and eye, while the backlit foreground completes the simplicity. A good choice for Black and White.

Peter Rowlands