Winners Gallery
Finalist Conservation (Impact) Photographer of the Year
Sirachai Arunrugstichai Myeik, Myanmar
"A large pile of spadenose sharks is butterflied and salted for preservation at a shark factory to be later sold as salted fish," says Arunrugstichai. "Although targeted shark fisheries have been legally banned in Myanmar since 2009, there are still active markets for shark products both for local consumption and for export overseas through neighbouring countries via land borders. The sharks are supplied from both targeted fisheries and from bycatch by non-selective fishing gear, while enforcement and monitoring efforts are lacking."
BEHIND THE LENS
Sirachai Arunrugstichai Thailand
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Rainy, monsoon day
- Morning shoot
- Shot using natural light in the factory
- Site accessed by scooter
Sirachai “Shin” Arunrugstichai is a Thai photojournalist and marine biologist focused on marine conservation and humanity’s complex relationship with the ocean. An Associate Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, a National Geographic Explorer and a Vital Impacts' Sylvia Earle Grant recipient, Shin’s work spans from environmental crises to social issues. His images have appeared in National Geographic, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian, often through his role with Getty Images. When not in the field, Shin contributes to shark and ray research in Southeast Asia as a co-founder of Thai Sharks and Rays, a collaborative marine science initiative.
MORE IMAGES BY Sirachai Arunrugstichai
Conservation (Hope)Photographer of the Year
2025 Thailand
Conservation (Hope)Photographer of the Year
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Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean
2025 Taiwan
Conservation (Impact)Photographer of the Year
2024 Myeik Archipelago, Myanmar
Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean
2023 Rayong, Thailand
Conservation (Impact)Photographer of the Year
2023 Rayong, Thailand
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.