Ipah Uid Lynn: "I aim to capture more than just an image"
Underwater photographer Ipah Uid Lynn has just won the Female Fifty Fathoms Award in 2024's Ocean Photographer of the Year competition. In this interview, she speaks to Oceanographic about what the award means to her, the importance of boosting the visibility of female photographers in a male-dominated industry, and more.
The Female Fifty Fathoms award, presented by Blancpain, celebrates inspirational women in ocean photography. This year, Malaysia-based PADI instructor and underwater photographer Ipah Uid Lynn impressed the Ocean Photographer of the Year judging panel with her portfolio. She is renowned for her unique ability to fuse art with life through her lens. A mother of six, Ipah seamlessly balances her roles as an artist and a parent, infusing her work with the depth and beauty of her personal experiences.
Oceanographic: When did you first connect with the ocean?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “I first connected with the ocean when I learned to overcome my fear of water. It was a transformative experience that allowed me to see the ocean not as something to be feared, but as a vast, beautiful world waiting to be explored. This connection deepened as I began diving, revealing the ocean’s mysteries and igniting a passion for marine life. The sense of peace and wonder I felt underwater has stayed with me ever since, guiding my journey into underwater photography and beyond.”
Oceanographic: How did you get into underwater photography?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “My journey into underwater photography began with my fascination for marine life and a desire to capture its beauty. Initially, I was a land-based macro photographer, focusing on tiny details, but once I started diving, I saw a whole new world through my lens. The unique challenges and rewards of shooting underwater, combined with the calming effect it had on my mind, drew me deeper into this art form. Over time, I honed my skills, blending creative storytelling with my images. That’s how underwater photography became my passion.”
Oceanographic: How would you describe your style of photography?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “I would describe my style as creative, with a strong emphasis on storytelling. I aim to capture more than just an image; I strive to evoke emotion and convey a narrative through my work. Whether I’m shooting macro or wide-angle, each photograph is carefully composed to highlight the beauty and intricacy of marine life, often with a touch of surrealism. My style is a blend of technical precision and artistic expression, which I believe brings a unique perspective to underwater photography.”
Oceanographic: Why did you decide to enter the 2024 Ocean Photographer of the Year competition?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “I entered the 2024 Ocean Photographer of the Year competition to share my passion for the ocean with a broader audience. This competition offers a platform to highlight the beauty and fragility of our underwater world, and I wanted to contribute to that narrative. Additionally, I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself and to be recognised among the best in the field. The chance to showcase my work and inspire others to appreciate and protect our oceans was a key motivation for entering.”



Oceanographic: Tell us about the background behind your portfolio. How did you put it together? Why did you select to submit this choice of images?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “My portfolio is a reflection of my journey through various underwater environments, including wreck diving, cave diving, taking wide-angle shots, and creative macro photography. I selected these images to showcase the diversity of marine life and the different techniques I’ve mastered over the years. Each image was chosen not only for its visual impact but also for the story it tells about the underwater world. From the eerie beauty of wrecks to the vibrant colours of coral reefs, my portfolio is a celebration of the ocean’s wonders.”
Oceanographic: Many of your images were taken in Malaysia. How would you describe the underwater offerings in your home country?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “Malaysia offers an incredible diversity of underwater experiences, making it a paradise for underwater photographers. From the pristine coral reefs of Sipadan to the mysterious depths of cave systems, the underwater world here is teeming with life and opportunities for exploration. The macro life is particularly rich, with countless species of nudibranchs and other small creatures. The waters around Malaysia are also home to impressive wrecks and stunning wide-angle scenes, offering endless possibilities for both creative and technical photography.”
Oceanographic: What are conservation concerns in Malaysia?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “One of the major conservation concerns in Malaysia is coral bleaching, which has been exacerbated by rising sea temperatures and environmental stressors. This phenomenon threatens the delicate ecosystems that many marine species depend on. Overfishing, plastic pollution, and coastal development are also significant issues, impacting the health of Malaysia’s marine environments. Addressing these concerns requires a concerted effort from local communities, government bodies, and international organizations to protect and preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations.”
Oceanographic: Why is an award like the Female Fifty Fathoms Award so important? Why are women still underrepresented in ocean photography?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “The Female Fifty Fathoms Award is crucial as it shines a spotlight on the contributions of women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Women are still underrepresented in ocean photography due to societal barriers, lack of representation, and limited access to opportunities. This award not only acknowledges the talent and hard work of female photographers but also encourages more women to pursue their passion for the ocean. It’s a powerful step towards gender equality, inspiring future generations of female photographers to break through these barriers.”




Oceanographic: What does this award mean to you?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “Winning the Female Fifty Fathoms Award is a tremendous honour and a validation of my dedication to underwater photography. It means that my work is recognised not just for its artistic merit but also for its impact in raising awareness about the ocean’s beauty and the importance of its conservation. This award motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft and to use my platform to inspire others, especially women, to explore the underwater world and pursue their creative passions.”
Oceanographic: How did you feel when hearing about winning the FFF award?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “Hearing that I had won the Female Fifty Fathoms Award was an overwhelming and surreal experience. I felt a deep sense of pride, not just for myself, but for all the women who have worked tirelessly to make their mark in ocean photography. It was a moment of validation for the countless hours spent perfecting my craft and an affirmation that my voice and perspective as a female photographer are valued. The award filled me with joy and renewed energy to continue my work with even greater passion.”
Oceanographic: How do you try to inspire other female underwater photographers?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “I strive to inspire other female underwater photographers by sharing my journey openly, offering mentorship, and highlighting the importance of perseverance and creativity. Through workshops, talks, and social media, I encourage women to explore underwater photography, embrace their unique perspectives, and challenge industry norms. By showcasing my work and experiences, I aim to demonstrate that success in this field is achievable, regardless of gender. My goal is to build a supportive community where women feel empowered to pursue their passions and contribute to the art of ocean photography.”
Oceanographic: Why is it important to advance female visibility in the industry?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “Advancing female visibility in the underwater photography industry is crucial for promoting diversity, creativity, and inclusivity. Women bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the field, offering fresh insights and approaches to capturing the underwater world. Increased visibility challenges stereotypes, breaks down barriers, and creates more opportunities for women to excel in this traditionally male-dominated industry. By elevating female voices and achievements, we can inspire the next generation of photographers and ensure a more balanced and dynamic representation of the ocean’s beauty.”


Oceanographic: Any advice for aspiring underwater photographers?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “For aspiring underwater photographers, my advice is to dive in with passion and patience. Mastering underwater photography takes time, but the rewards are immense. Start by honing your skills in both diving and photography, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and perspectives. Embrace the challenges and learn from every dive. Most importantly, stay curious and connected to the ocean – your love for the underwater world will shine through in your work. Build a portfolio that tells a story, and always strive to improve and innovate.”
Oceanographic: Your favourite ocean moment to date?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “My favourite ocean moment to date was diving with manta rays. It was a surreal and humbling experience to be in the presence of such graceful and majestic creatures. The way they effortlessly glide through the water, with their immense wingspans and gentle movements, left me in awe. Capturing their beauty on camera was both a challenge and a privilege, and it reminded me of the incredible diversity and wonder that the ocean holds. This encounter deepened my connection to the sea and reinforced my commitment to its preservation.”
Oceanographic: What’s the main aim behind your photography? What are you trying to achieve?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “The main aim behind my photography is to inspire a deeper connection between people and the ocean. I strive to capture the beauty, mystery, and fragility of the underwater world, encouraging viewers to appreciate and protect it. Through my images, I hope to raise awareness about marine conservation and the need to preserve these ecosystems for future generations. My work is a visual testament to the wonders of the ocean, and my goal is to evoke a sense of wonder and responsibility in those who see it.”



Oceanographic: What plans do you have for the future? Any exciting expeditions planned?
Ipah Uid Lynn: “Looking ahead, my next project focuses on the exploration and documentation of sea mangroves. These vital ecosystems are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in coastal protection and biodiversity. I plan to embark on an expedition to capture the intricate beauty and ecological importance of mangroves, using both macro and wide-angle photography. This project aims to raise awareness about the conservation of mangroves and their significance to marine life. I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of my work and exploring new underwater landscapes.”
You can now see all 2024 Ocean Photographer of the Year category winners and finalist images here. Or for the latest updates on the entry process and more, go follow OPY on Instagram: @opy_awards
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