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

16th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Whale silhouette

I had this shot in mind for a long time but its not often you get to swim under a 45 tonne Whale as she surfaces to breath. This year i was fortunate enough to spend a lot of time in the water with these magnificent animals. When we found this very relaxed mum and calf in shallow water i knew i had a chance to get the shot. I dived down under, holding my breath, waiting for that special moment. As the baby swims back under mum i knew i had the shot.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2017
Date Uploaded: 09.2018
Photo Location: Ha'apai islands, Tonga
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Copyright: © Grant Thomas