Oceanographic magazine has announced the winners of its annual Ocean Photographer of the Year award. The competition received over 15,000 images from photographers worldwide. These winning images highlight the beauty, power, and vulnerability of the ocean across ten distinct categories. Among the recognized talents is French photographer Ben Thouard, known for his striking ocean imagery.
The competition serves as a global platform for ocean photography. It aims to connect people with marine environments through powerful visuals. The diverse categories ensure a wide range of photographic styles and subjects are celebrated, from artistic interpretations to critical conservation messages.
Key Takeaways
- Over 15,000 images submitted to Ocean Photographer of the Year.
- Ben Thouard won for a photograph taken at Nazaré, Portugal.
- The awards span ten categories, including Fine Art and Conservation.
- Photography acts as a bridge, connecting people to ocean issues.
Ben Thouard's Winning Image from Nazaré
Ben Thouard, a photographer based in Teahupo’o, Tahiti, secured a top honor in the competition. While Thouard is well-known for his work in Tahiti, his winning photograph was captured in the challenging waters of Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal. This location is famous for its exceptionally large waves, attracting big-wave surfers and photographers globally.
Thouard described the conditions on the day he took the photo. He noted it was a rough day at Nazaré with difficult wind conditions. This made surfing particularly tricky. Few surfers ventured out, but Justine Dupont and Eric Rebiere, his subjects for the day, decided to attempt it.
"A rough day at Nazaré," Thouard explained. "The wind was blowing from the north which makes the surf tricky. Not many surfers went out, but Justine Dupont and Eric Rebiere, who I was there to shoot, decided to give it a try. It was the end of the afternoon; the light was interesting from the beach instead of from the usual cliff view. It was hard to shoot anything because of the big sets and the saltwater in the air. But, eventually, this moment happened."
The photograph captures a unique moment. The light was particularly striking from the beach, offering a different perspective than the typical cliff views of Nazaré. Thouard faced challenges, including large waves and saltwater spray, which made photography difficult. Despite these obstacles, he managed to capture a powerful image.
Interesting Fact
Praia do Norte, Nazaré, holds the world record for the largest wave ever surfed. Garrett McNamara surfed a 78-foot wave in 2011, and Sebastian Steudtner later broke that record with an 86-foot wave in 2020.
The Importance of Ocean Photography
Will Harrison, director of Ocean Photographer of the Year, emphasized the role of photography beyond art. He stated that these images serve as a crucial bridge between people and the ocean. They allow viewers to connect with marine environments even if they never experience them directly.
Harrison highlighted the urgency of planetary issues. He believes that photographs invite people to see, feel, and ultimately care about the ocean. This understanding is essential for protection efforts. The competition aims to foster a deeper connection and sense of responsibility towards marine ecosystems globally.
Competition Categories
The Ocean Photographer of the Year awards are divided into ten distinct categories. These include:
- Fine Art: Recognizes artistic and aesthetic merit.
- Wildlife: Focuses on marine animals in their natural habitats.
- Adventure: Captures human interaction with the ocean in adventurous settings.
- Conservation (Impact): Highlights negative impacts on ocean health.
- Conservation (Hope): Showcases positive efforts and signs of recovery.
- Human Connection: Explores the relationship between people and the sea.
- Young: For photographers under a certain age, encouraging new talent.
- Portfolio: Awards a collection of works by a single photographer.
- FFF (Female Fifty Fathoms): Dedicated to female photographers.
- Overall Ocean Photographer of the Year: The top award for the best single image.
These categories ensure a comprehensive celebration of ocean photography. They cover various aspects of marine life, human interaction, and environmental concerns.
Connecting Through Visuals
The power of visual storytelling is central to the competition's mission. Photographs can convey complex messages and emotions quickly and effectively. They can bypass language barriers and resonate with a global audience. This makes them a powerful tool for advocacy and education.
The images chosen by Oceanographic magazine provide a window into the underwater world and coastal environments. They show both the serene beauty and the harsh realities faced by marine life and habitats. By showcasing these diverse perspectives, the awards encourage a broader appreciation and understanding of the ocean's significance.
Warren Miller's 'SNO-CIETY' Film Tour
In other outdoor sports news, Warren Miller Entertainment is set to release its 76th annual ski film, 'SNO-CIETY'. This film tour marks a long-standing tradition in the outdoor sports community. It signals the start of the winter season for many snow sports enthusiasts.
The tradition began in 1949. Each year, Warren Miller films travel to ski towns worldwide. These films aim to inspire and excite audiences about the upcoming ski and snowboard season. They foster a sense of community among snow lovers.
Last year's film, '75', featured the creative crew Real Skifi. This group is known for its innovative approach to skiing. Their segment, titled 'Perspective', highlighted their unique style. Real Skifi's work often involves unconventional skiing techniques and optical illusions, making their segments highly engaging.
Warren Miller films are known for their fun and creative content. Even those who primarily snowboard often find these films enjoyable. The blend of impressive athletic feats and artistic expression makes them a staple in winter sports culture. 'SNO-CIETY' is expected to continue this legacy, bringing new adventures and perspectives to the screen.
Did You Know?
Warren Miller Entertainment has produced an annual ski film for 76 consecutive years, making it one of the longest-running film series in sports history.
The Art of Skiing: Real Skifi's 'Perspective'
Real Skifi's contribution to '75' demonstrated their outside-the-box approach. Their segment, 'Perspective', explored the boundaries between jibs (skiing on non-snow surfaces) and optical illusions. This creative blend challenges traditional perceptions of skiing.
The group's ability to transform everyday environments into ski parks showcases their ingenuity. They use urban landscapes and natural features in unexpected ways. This often results in visually stunning and thought-provoking sequences. Their work encourages viewers to see skiing from a fresh viewpoint.
Ultimately, both the Ocean Photographer of the Year awards and the Warren Miller film tour highlight the power of visual media. They connect people with natural environments and inspire passion for outdoor activities. They remind audiences of the beauty of our planet and the human spirit of adventure and creativity.