Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
beyond the edge of darkness #12

My series "beyond the edge of darkness" reimagines the feeling of awe I experience when diving: and the vast mysterious sea is my stage. These images utilize unique perspectives that highlight bioluminescence and surreal colors inspired by coral reefs and nudibranchs, and they envision how underwater species sense the world via ultraviolet and infrared sight. As our oceans are in a vulnerable state, it is my hope that my focus on beauty and wonder will spark reflection about humanity’s role in our interconnected ecosystems. * The title is a reference to the wonderful inspiring book by Dr.Edith Widder "below the edge of darkness"

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Weilheim, Germany
Copyright: © Melanie Schoeniger