Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, NATCHA4

Finalist Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean

Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn Vietnam

13°46'14.8"N 109°17'33.8"E

"In this coastal region of Vietnam, Sargassum seaweed grows and regenerates naturally," says Chaturapitamorn, "often rising above the water’s surface when fully matured, creating the impression of an underwater forest. Fishermen carry out their work using traditional round basket boats, manually handling the nets with care. The translucent net fans out in all directions, forming the striking illusion of a blooming sea flower. Throughout the process, maintaining harmony with nature is essential, as preserving the delicate balance of the surrounding ecosystem remains a top priority."

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, NATCHA4

Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn Thailand

ABOUT THE IMAGE

4pm
Drone launched from beach
Calm seas
F/2.8, 1/1000s, ISO 100

Natnattcha is an award-winning travel photographer specialising in environmental portraits. Her photographic journey has earned her international acclaim across multiple prestigious platforms. In 2020, she won the Travel category of the Smithsonian Photo Contest. In 2024, her work was recognised at the Siena Photo Awards, where her images were honoured as remarkable artworks in the Nature and Travel category. That same year, she also won the prestigious Food Photo Award in the “Bring Home the Harvest” category. Most recently, in 2025, she was named the winner of the Portraits category at the 35th Memorial Maria Luisa Photo Contest, marking another milestone in her photographic journey.