2021 APoY finalist, James Ferrara - Oceanographic

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Finalist Adventure Photographer of the Year

James Ferrara Dominica

15*19’18” N 61*25’46” W

A sperm whale and sargassum weed. “It is exhilarating being in the water with a 40 ton adult sperm whale barreling past you,” says photographer James Ferrara. “The bubble trail left behind by the whale’s head is a testament to its speed and power. The awkward elegance of his oversized head, minuscule eye, and non-proportional pectoral fins are framed beautifully by the sporadic sargassum weed drifting in the currents of the Caribbean.”

BEHIND THE LENS

2021 APoY finalist, James Ferrara

James Ferrara United States (US)

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ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Captured mid-afternoon
  • Windy conditions
  • Taken while snorkelling
  • Site accessed via boat

James Ferrara is an underwater photographer based in South Florida. For the past 19 years, he has served as a career firefighter/paramedic while pursuing his passion for exploring the world's oceans. His adventures have taken him to remote destinations in search of extraordinary marine life and unforgettable natural moments. Through striking imagery, James seeks to inspire a deeper appreciation for the underwater world while promoting marine conservation. His work combines technical precision with artistic vision, capturing intimate encounters that showcase both the beauty and fragility of our oceans.

MORE IMAGES BY James Ferrara

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Fine ArtPhotographer of the Year

2026 USA

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, JAMFER6.2

Fine ArtPhotographer of the Year

2026 Mexico

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, JAMFER6.1

AdventurePhotographer of the Year

2023 Ontario, Canada

Ocean Adventure Photographer of the Year 2023, JF

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.

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