17th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Macro closeup of the back of an ocean dwelling lettuce Leaf Slug

I like to try and achieve composition or angles that are unfamiliar to those who aren't used to the underwater environment. With these shots, my goal is for the viewer to ask 'what is that?'. I hope that this will be a catalyst for curiosity and lead people to discover the underwater world for themselves.I honestly think curiosity is one of our strongest tools in conservationist strategy. I am drawn to the challenge and precision of macro underwater photography as it reminds us to really take the time to appreciate the fragility and complex beauty of the ocean environment. This ecosystem is often the first to be impacted by change and it will be a tragedy if we lose it.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2019
Date Uploaded: 06.2019
Photo Location: Cayman brac, Cayman Islands
Camera: NIKON Z 7
Copyright: © Ian Kay