Winners Gallery
2nd place Adventure Photographer of the Year
Gergo Rugli Sydney, Australia
33°54'12.3"S
151°16'05.8"E
"This afternoon was one that I am never going to forget," says Rugli. "A big swell reached Sydney’s coastline with some waves reaching over 10 feet in height. Very few surfers had the courage to fight with these monsters. It was just before sunset, and the sky was covered with clouds. I didn’t expect any colours, but just before the sun reached the horizon, a gap opened up, and the setting sun painted the whole sky with mysterious red light. I wanted to create a dreamy feeling and started to shoot with a slow shutter speed to capture the unique scene."
BEHIND THE LENS
Gergo Rugli Australia
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Taken from the shore
- Stormy conditions
- Big swell
- Rare conditions - once every couple of years
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
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.
