Winners Gallery
Finalist Adventure Photographer of the Year
Karim Iliya Hawai'i
"This photo shows a windsurfer riding a wave at Ho’okipa Beach in Maui, a spot famous for its big waves and strong winds," says Iliya. "Taken from above with a drone, the image offers a unique look at a sport most people rarely get to see up close. The photo was captured during the American Windsurfing Tour competition, where some of the best windsurfers in the world come to test their skills. From this aerial view, you can really feel the power of the ocean and the connection between the rider, the wave, and the wind driving it all forward."
BEHIND THE LENS
Karim Iliya United States (US)
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Early afternoon
- Sunny and windy
- Shot from the beach using a drone
- Big swell
Karim Iliya is a photographer, filmmaker, and whale swimming guide based in Iceland and Hawaii. He is the co-founder of Kogia, a non-profit media initiative dedicated to marine conservation. Raised in the Middle East and Asia, Karim’s passion for nature has taken him from volcanic eruptions to Arctic ice and underwater encounters with whales. His work focuses on threatened animals and fragile ecosystems, using visual storytelling to inspire protection of the natural world. Karim has worked in over 45 countries, won multiple awards, and been featured in National Geographic Magazine and BBC Earth for his humpback whale photography and films.
MORE IMAGES BY Karim Iliya
Conservation (Impact)Photographer of the Year
2023 Iceland
Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean
2022 Hawaii
