20 Striking Images From The 2025 IPA’s Finalists

Bored Panda reached out to Ben Yavar, a freediver and underwater photographer based in Panglao, Philippines (originally from Chile), whose stunning image “Sardines” earned him the title of Nature Photographer of the Year at the 2024 IPA. We wanted to learn more about Ben’s work and what goes on behind the scenes of his breathtaking deep-water shoots.

To begin, we asked how he prepares — both mentally and physically — before each dive: “As an underwater photographer and freediver, preparation is both mental and physical. Each dive requires me to be fully present.

Mentally, I always start by slowing down. I take a few moments to breathe deeply, center myself, and connect with the environment. Freediving photography isn't just about capturing a shot; it's about entering a different world calmly and respectfully. Any tension or stress can affect both your performance and the outcome of your images.”

The photographer continued: “Physically, I maintain specific workouts in my free time for my legs. One session can be quite demanding physically, so having general activities regularly will help. Also, I keep my gear checklist tight. Everything must be tested and assembled correctly before entering the water. This helps me relax and prepare for a smoother breath-hold.”

Ben also shared some of the specific rituals and routines he follows before each dive, saying: “I wouldn’t call them superstitions, but I do have habits. I like to enter the water slowly, take a moment to float on the surface, scan the visibility, and feel the conditions. That short pause reminds me to appreciate the moment and to approach every dive with humility, because the ocean is powerful, unpredictable, and always in control.

Underwater photography on breath-hold isn’t just about skills; it’s about being in tune with yourself and your surroundings. That’s where the magic happens.”

When asked to recall a moment in his underwater photography career that brought him the most joy or pride, Ben shared: “Every time I get to work with new clients, travel to a different place, or even just have a simple conversation with friends or my girlfriend Jay, I’m reminded of how grateful I am to be living a life guided by passion. It’s in those everyday moments that I realize how incredible it is to be doing what I love. This journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been real, and it’s mine. And that makes everything worth it.”

We were also curious about the most profound lesson Yavar has learned from spending so much time underwater. The photographer explained that it’s the deep realization of how everything is connected — and how little control we truly have. He elaborated: “When I’m beneath the surface, especially on a breath-hold, there’s no room for ego. You have to surrender to the rhythm of the ocean, to the movement of the creatures around you, to the silence. I've watched massive manta rays glide effortlessly above me, sardines move as one living pulse, and even the tiniest nudibranchs remind me that every part of this world matters.

Being in their world teaches humility. These animals don’t perform for the camera; they move by instinct, with grace, and on their terms. To photograph them well, I have to earn their trust by being calm, patient, and present. That alone has taught me more about respect, stillness, and timing than any book or class ever could.

Above all, the ocean reminds me that life flows best when we stop trying to control everything and simply allow ourselves to be part of it, not separate from it.”