UPY 2025

UPY  Save our Seas Foundation Marine Conservation - Third
'Esperanza'
Giacomo Rossi

Esperanza, a boat symbolizing hope for ocean conservation, embodies the mission to preserve marine resources. Organizations like Pelagios Kakunja tirelessly work to protect sharks in the Sea of Cortés, Mexico. I was privileged to document the tagging and release of juvenile sharks, including hammerheads and a surprise juvenile tiger shark. Most inspiring was Pedro, a former shark fisherman turned into a conservationist, who helped with the tagging and handling of the tiger shark. His transformation underscores the power of change and collaboration in conservation efforts.
The Sea of Cortés was once a place where sharks were so abundant that children on the beach would play by tossing small stones at their dorsal fins. Sadly, this abundance is now a thing of the past. Today, we must strive to bring a new "Esperanza"—a New Hope—for the ocean and its incredible life.

Judge's comment: An image what "screams" marine conservation in all aspects! Very well executed split shot of the lovely, juvenile Tiger sharks which makes it a true eye catcher. Great positioning for the "models" as well, which all look in the subject and are very convivial in the background and not disturbing the overall composition.

Tobias Friedrich