4th Place Macro

Lilian Koh

"Eye"

The Story: 

As a scuba diver and underwater photographer, I'm constantly in pursuit of those moments that define the beauty and mystery of the underwater world. At a modest depth of 18 meters, nestled within the vibrant ecosystem of a tropical coral reef, I was fortunate enough to capture this image of a Durban Dancing Shrimp, scientifically known as Rhynchocinetes durbanensis. In this photo, the body of the shrimp glows with delicate colors of red and white, a stark contrast to the blues and greens of the surrounding waters. The calm of the ocean allowed for a clear shot, focusing on the eye of this tiny creature—a glistening orb that seemed to hold the vastness of the sea. This serene encounter was a game of patience. As I hovered, motionless, the shrimp seemed to grow comfortable with my presence. It was a dance of trust as it positioned itself, allowing me to capture its portrait. The eye, especially, with its magnificent detail, became the center of this visual story. This image is a reminder of the intricate, often unnoticed lives that thrive beneath the waves. It speaks to the artistry and resilience of marine life, and to the deep, personal connection I feel with the ocean every time I dive into its depths.

Location: 

Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia

Equipment Used: 

• Camera: Canon 5D Mark IV
• Housing: Nauticam Canon 5D Mark IV
• Lens: TTartisan 100mm f2.8 Bubble Bokeh
• Lights/Strobes: Minigear MS-03

Camera Settings: 

• Aperture: F2.8
• Shutter Speed: 1/200 sec
• ISO: 100

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