Winners Gallery
Finalist Adventure Photographer of the Year
James Ferrara Ontario, Canada
"Having a freediver under the ice gives a feeling of swimming through the clouds," says Ferrara. "Ice patterns can vary throughout the winter season due to the ebb and flow of the wind and weather. The geometric shapes of the ice can make for a very dramatic backdrop. From the surface you can’t tell what the ice is going to look like underneath - it was a surprise each time."
BEHIND THE LENS
James Ferrara United States (US)
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Early afternoon shoot
- -9 degrees Celsius air temperature
- Taken while freediving
- Captured on 3rd day of a shoot
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
Conservation (Impact)Photographer of the Year
2026 Raa Atoll, Maldives
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.
