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UPY 2026 Portrait - Highly Commended
'Super red'
Toni Bertran
Seahorses are among the marine creatures I enjoy photographing most. Along the Spanish coast, Hippocampus guttulatus is a common yet elusive subject, distinguished by the spines that allow it to blend seamlessly into the surrounding seaweed. For a long time, I envisioned capturing this species in profile, silhouetted against a red backlight that would reveal its distinctive shape while preserving its natural camouflage. Achieving the right position and lighting was challenging, as seahorses are constantly hidden within their environment. In this rare moment, the subject revealed itself perfectly: its natural red coloration harmonized with the backlight, while a subtle snoot illuminated only the body, highlighting its form and texture among the seaweed.
Judge's comment: A fantastic marriage of technique and subject, with the backlighting highlighting both the characteristic silhouette of the seahorse and also this individual’s beautiful colour pattern.
Alex Mustard
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