Congratulations to our 2023 Photo Contest Winners!

 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the amazing individuals, both familiar faces and newfound friends, who shared their captivating photographs for this year’s contest, dedicated to honoring Laguna’s Marine Protected Areas. Each submission demonstrated an overwhelming affection and reverence for our vast ocean!

This year’s collection of images presented a mesmerizing tapestry of vibrant hues and enchanting perspectives on our marine life and their ethereal habitat. They depict individuals embracing the natural environment and engaging harmoniously with the marine residents within the cherished boundaries of the Laguna Beach Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

We are immensely grateful for this visual journey, which inspiring a profound appreciation for the splendor and fragility of our oceanic realm. Through these shared moments of beauty and connection, we strive to deepen our commitment to safeguarding and preserving these invaluable marine ecosystems. Our sincerest appreciation goes out to each participant for their contributions, and to the organizers for fostering such a magnificent celebration!
The Contest was judged by internationally acclaimed National Geographic and TIME Magazine photographer Cristina Mittermeier, Laguna’s Rich German and Global Marine Scientist Julianne Steers.

They selected the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Winners in two categories: Amateur and Professional as well as 2 Honorable Mentions in each.
Congratulations to ALL!

Judges quotes to come. 

AMATEUR WINNERS

First Place -  “Surfer at the Beach” by Charles Keller  

Second Place – “Dances with Dolphins” by Bassim El Hatem

Third Place – “Anemone Crown” by Susana Cruciana

Honorable Mention – “The Forever Tide Pools…” by Roger Su

Honorable Mention – ” “Eye” Worthy” by Yvonne Bellgardt

PROFESSIONAL WINNERS

First Place – “A Sea Star Is Born” by Noah Gilbert

Second Place – “Surf and Shadows” by Christian Welch

 
Third Place – “Over the Sunset” by Andre Magarao Honorable Mention – “Shell Set” by Sean Brown Honorable Mention – “Sunset Lookout” by Craig Hatfield