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3rd place Fine Art Photographer of the Year

Ysabela Coll Mexico

20°22'18.2"N 87°01'40.7"W

"With a powerful sweep of its pectoral fins, a stingray vanishes into the blue, leaving behind a swirling cloud of sand," says Coll. "This dramatic burst isn’t just beautiful—it’s a survival tactic. The stingray’s sudden movement disturbs the seafloor, creating a dense visual barrier that confuses predators and conceals its escape. In a single graceful motion, it demonstrates a remarkable adaptation for life on the ocean floor—where defence, camouflage, and movement come together in a fleeting but unforgettable display."

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, YSACOL5

Ysabela Coll Dominican Republic

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Strong current
  • Excellent visibility
  • Morning shoot
  • Overcast conditions

Ysabela is an underwater photographer from the Dominican Republic who has been diving since childhood. Though she began her career as a psychologist, her passion for the ocean led her to study photography in Spain and co-found a conservation and fine art company alongside her mentor and stepfather. Her work captures not just the beauty of marine life but the emotional experience of being underwater. Through her images, Ysabela hopes to inspire a deeper love for nature and a shared commitment to protecting the ocean and the fragile ecosystems that connect us all.