Winners Gallery
Finalist Adventure Photographer of the Year
Gergo Rugli Australia
A common dolphin photographed in the Port Stephens Marine Park off Broughton Island. “This dolphin was expertly riding the pressure wave of a 52ft catamaran,” says photographer Gergo Rugli. “Around 40-50 common dolphins surrounded our boat and began riding the bow. I positioned myself in the net between the bows of the catamaran and started photographing them whilst I was hanging upside down from the moving boat.”
BEHIND THE LENS
Gergo Rugli Australia
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Captured in the morning
- Sunny conditions
- Taken hanging upside down from a moving boat
- 15m underwater visibility
Francesca Page is a multi-disciplinary visual artist, ocean explorer, and conservation storyteller. Merging underwater photography, photojournalism, filmmaking, and illustration, her work uncovers the overlooked, untold stories of the natural world. Driven by a deep curiosity about the power of visual communication, Francesca shines a spotlight on the planet’s most misunderstood creatures and fragile marine habitats. She travels the globe documenting vital wildlife stories to inspire positive change and deepen the connection between humanity and the sea. She has the belief that art has the power to save this planet, and she is on a mission to do just that!
MORE IMAGES BY Gergo Rugli
Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean
2026 Sydney, Australia
AdventurePhotographer of the Year
2023 Sydney, Australia
Reconnect. Immerse yourself. Be inspired.
Enjoy the vibrancy, beauty and impact of each year's finalist photography, celebrated in our Ocean Photographer of the Year coffee table book collection.