Winners Gallery
Finalist Conservation (Hope) Photographer of the Year
Dan Mele Virgin Islands, USA
Grooved brain corals (Diploria labyrinthiformis) sit in a land-based coral nursery moments before their annual spawning. The still water, created to help researchers collect eggs and sperm for coral breeding, reflects each colony's unique patterns. Assisted spawning is an important conservation technique, helping restore threatened coral reefs by increasing the genetic diversity of future generations.
BEHIND THE LENS
Dan Mele Virgin Islands (US)
ABOUT THE IMAGE
- Approached by foot
- Taken on the shore
- Canon R5 with Canon 8-15 Fisheye in a Nauticam NA-R5 Housing
- ISO 100, f/6.3, 1/250
Dan Mele is a science photographer and filmmaker based in the U.S. Virgin Islands. With a background in marine science, he specializes in underwater storytelling that reveals the people, passion, and process behind scientific discovery. His work helps researchers, conservation organizations, and universities connect with broader audiences through compelling visual stories. Dan is an Emerging League member of the International League of Conservation Photographers, a TEDx speaker, and has contributed to Emmy-nominated and award-winning films. Supported by NOAA's Climate Resilience Regional Challenge grant, he collaborates with universities, NGOs, government agencies, and research labs to bring science and conservation stories to life.
