20 Photo Winners Of The IPA 2023 To Celebrate The Spirit Of Summer With

To learn more about the winners of this competition, Bored Panda reached out to Ben Yavar, a photographer who captured a magnificent shot called “Underwater Portal”.

Ben shared what inspired him to take this picture: “As an underwater freediving photographer, my goal is to capture and convey the harmonious coexistence of ocean creatures, their environment, and humans. 'Underwater Portal' was inspired by my deep connection with the sea and the desire to share the beauty and tranquility of the underwater world with others. I aim to evoke a sense of wonder and respect for our oceans, encouraging others to appreciate and protect these delicate ecosystems.”

With the photo taken under the water, we were curious to know what challenges Ben faced while taking this shot, especially since it was done on a single breath-hold.

“For a shot like this, the challenges include precise timing, managing breath-hold duration, maintaining proper equalization, and moving slowly. Quick movements can alarm the school of sardines, causing them to react differently and scatter,” explained Ben.

As a photographer and instructor, we asked Ben to give advice to new photographers who want to capture travel and adventure photos.

Ben wrote: “First and foremost, I recommend taking a freediving course. Safety is the top priority, and proper training can only be acquired through a course in the ocean or a deep pool, not online. Secondly, always take care of our environment and avoid harming it for the sake of a few photos. Respect the ocean and its inhabitants, and strive to capture their beauty without causing any damage.”

Ben also explained how he prepared for this photoshoot in Moalboal.

“I traveled to Moalboal specifically to shoot with this school of sardines. I booked accommodation for four days near the ocean, dedicating my time to capturing the perfect shot. After days of shooting and patiently waiting for the right conditions, this shot was finally created.”

Lastly, Ben added: “I love sharing my experiences with others and showing how beautiful the ocean and its creatures can be. By approaching the ocean with respect, we can witness so many incredible scenarios that feel otherworldly. I hope to inspire others to appreciate and protect these magnificent underwater environments.”