On a recent adventure to the furthest reaches of Antarctica, I had the honour of capturing a moment that has now become a finalist in the prestigious Oceanographic Magazine's Ocean Photographer of the Year Awards. This accolade marks not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the incredible creatures that inhabit our planet's marine landscapes.
The Gentoo Penguin
The featured photograph - Taking Flight - captures the essence of the elusive Gentoo Penguin, a species native to the remote and icy regions of the Antarctic. These magnificent creatures are seldom seen, making the image a rare and captivating glimpse into their world. In my image, the Gentoo Penguin, with its sleek black and white plumage, powerfully launches itself out of the cool waters.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Gentoo Penguin photograph holds a deeper significance. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of life in the oceans and the importance of preserving the habitats of unique and vulnerable species. In an era where climate change poses unprecedented threats to our planet, such images become powerful tools to advocate for the protection of our oceans.
The journey behind the lens
The journey to capture this extraordinary moment was both thrilling and challenging.
On my first day at sea in Antarctica, I had my camera in hand and was ready to capture the Gentoo Penguin. Surrounded by diverse wildlife in Paradise Bay, a raft of energetic Gentoo Penguins soon charged towards our inflatable - an amazing moment. Getting low on the boat I prefocused my lens, anticipating the moment. Freezing the fastest penguin species in the world head on wasn’t easy, as they raced at speeds of over 20mph (30km/h) towards me.
The freezing temperatures and unpredictable weather only added to the sense of accomplishment when the magical moment finally presented itself.
Ocean Photographer of the Year Awards
To be recognised as a finalist in the Ocean Photographer of the Year Awards by Oceanographic Magazine is a true honour. This competition, renowned for showcasing the best in ocean photography, provides a global platform to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation and the need to protect these delicate ecosystems.
The image is now on display at the National Maritime Museum in Sydney, alongside other beautiful and thought-provoking imagery from some of the world’s best ocean photographers.
