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UPY 2026 Up & Coming - Third
'Shared Time'
Jinny Kim
"Heaven’s Gate," a breathtaking section of the Nohoch Nah Chich underwater cave system in Mexico, is where I took this photo. The experience of entering this space felt less like a simple passage and more like a journey across time, a profound shift from the present into the distant past. Within this sacred space, fundamental elements converge in a powerful dance: nature and humanity, light and profound darkness, and the ephemeral trail of the diver’s rising air bubbles. Photographically, I aimed to capture this convergence, striving to express, as grandly and beautifully as possible, the intense emotions and sheer awe that overwhelmed me in that ethereal place. It is a moment of pure, raw connection with the planet's hidden wonders.
Judge's comment: Very well composed and excellent light distribution in this image. Despite not being 100% perfect in centring the diver and lacking a bit of noise reduction from the post production it was very well received by all judges and a most deserved third place!
Tobias Friedrich
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