Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 AJIDHA6 - Oceanographic

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Finalist The Ocean Unseen: Hidden Worlds

Ajiex Dharma Tulamben, Bali

8.2838° S 115.5868° E

A tiny urchin shrimp (Stegopontonia commensalis) hides among the venomous spines of a sea urchin. The shrimp has adapted to align itself vertically, mimicking the shape and orientation of the sea urchin's spines. This remarkable camouflage allows the shrimp to live safely within its host, gaining protection while leaving the urchin unharmed. Look closely and you may spot the shrimp's translucent eye, almost invisible against the striped body.

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 AJIDHA6

Ajiex Dharma Indonesia

  • Follow Ajiex On Instagram

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Scuba, Coastal Walk-in
  • Sony A7iv
  • iso : 100 Shutter Speed 1?200 F6.3

Ajiex Dharma is a freelance dive guide based in Tulamben, Bali. Alongside guiding dives, she enjoys searching for underwater macro critters, capturing the fascinating details and unique marine life that often go unnoticed. As a freelancer, she values flexibility, creativity, and building genuine connections with people through her work. Whether she´s leading a dive or photographing tiny underwater creatures, she is dedicated to creating memorable experiences while continuing to learn and grow every day.

MORE IMAGES BY Ajiex Dharma

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2024 Bali, Indonesia

Ocean Fine Art Photographer of the Year 2024, AJIDHA4

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.

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