Winners Gallery
Finalist Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean
Sirachai Arunrugstichai Taiwan
"Fuji 268, one of Taiwan’s last fire fishing boats, ignites a fireball to startle sardines in the coastal waters of New Taipei," says Arunrugstichai. "By 2023, it was the sole survivor of this national cultural heritage of Taiwan, with the crew working to sustain the tradition by partnering with local guides and launching their own educational program to offset costs and dwindling fish stocks. The effort drew more than 5,000 tourists in 2024 - double the previous year - sparking enough demand for another fire fishing boat to return to operation under this growing business model."
BEHIND THE LENS
Sirachai Arunrugstichai Thailand
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Night-time
- Windy with light swell
- Grant-based shoot
- F/2.8, 1/500s, ISO 640
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
2025 Thailand
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 Myeik, Myanmar
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.