Swedish photographer Alex Dawson has been awarded the prestigious title of Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 for his stunning image titled Whale Bones. The captivating photo captures a breath-hold diver exploring a minke whale skeleton beneath the Greenland ice sheet.
According to Amateur Photographer.com, Dawson’s winning image stood out among 6500 entries from underwater photographers worldwide. His photograph not only showcases the beauty of the underwater world but also sheds light on the plight of marine life. Despite depicting the by-product of small-scale whaling, the image highlights the global decline in marine and wildlife populations.
Former marine biologist and competition judge Alex Mustard praised Dawson’s work, stating in the photograph’s judge’s comments section that the masterful composition invites viewers to consider our impact on the planet’s great creatures. Mustard emphasised the need for change in our approach to wildlife conservation, as wild animals have declined by 85% since the rise of humans.
In a statement to the BBC, Mustard highlighted the challenging conditions under which Whale Bones was photographed, with the breath-hold diver descending below the Greenland ice sheet to witness the carcasses. He noted that the diver’s suit and torch give the image a visiting alien feel, drawing viewers into the scene.
Following his win, Dawson took to Instagram to express his gratitude, stating, “I am honoured to have been given the award of Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 in London this weekend with my winning image ‘Whale Bones’. This image was submitted in the Wide Angle category, with freediving mode.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/C3gJGL1NPU0/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=c967282f-39a0-4e8a-ae79-236e201e8b44
The competition comprises 13 categories, such as Macro, Wide-Angle, Behavior, and Wreck, along with four dedicated to photographs taken in British waters.
Underwater photographers brave challenging conditions to explore the least-known regions of our blue planet and share the marvels of the sea. The UPY competition features underwater images from photographers worldwide, with winners selected across twelve categories including macro, behaviour, wrecks and compact, with three categories dedicated solely to British waters. Additionally, the competition awards the Save Our Seas Foundation Marine Conservation Photographer of the Year title.
The winning photographers were revealed at an awards ceremony held in Mayfair, London, and hosted by The Crown Estate.
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