Summary
Swedish photographer Alex Dawson's captivating underwater photograph 'Whalebones' has been named 'Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024' after outcompeting over 6,500 entries globally.
Abstract
A photograph titled 'Whalebones' by Swedish photographer Alex Dawson has been awarded the prestigious 'Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024'. The image, which features a diver exploring the skeletal remains of a whale beneath the ocean's surface, was selected from a pool of more than 6,500 submissions from around the world. The photograph stands out for its depiction of the diver's interaction with the marine environment in the challenging conditions off the Greenland ice sheet, illuminated by the diver's suit and flashlight. The image's compelling composition and the narrative of exploration and discovery in a harsh underwater setting have been highlighted by the chair of the judging panel, Alex Mustard.
Opinions
- The judging panel, chaired by Alex Mustard, holds the photograph 'Whalebones' in high regard, praising its unique portrayal of underwater exploration.
- The extreme conditions of the dive, including the descent from the Greenland ice sheet, add to the image's perceived value and the skill required to capture it.
- The photograph is considered to transcend typical underwater photography, likening the scene to an encounter with a 'space creature'.