Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, RAFARM6 - Oceanographic

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Finalist Fine Art Photographer of the Year

Rafael Armada Tarragona, Spain

40°48'18.1"N 0°43'49.1"E

Yellow-legged gulls swarm around fish thrown from a boat off the coast of Tarragona, Spain, their wings and bodies merging into a blur of movement. This image captures more than feeding chaos; it reflects the relationship these birds have developed with human fishing activity. Discards from fishing vessels are largely responsible for the population growth of several gull species in the Mediterranean, so as well as being a beautiful image this shows us how dependent these birds have become on human activity.

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, RAFARM6

Rafael Armada Spain

  • Follow Rafael On Instagram

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Site accessed via Boat
  • Canon EOS R3 & 600mm RFL lens
  • ISO 100, f25.0, 1/20

Rafael is a wildlife photographer, author, and guide based in Barcelona, with over 35 years of experience photographing birds. In recent years, his focus has shifted toward seabirds and oceanic environments, where he combines conservation, storytelling, and field documentation. Rafael’s work often takes him to remote and challenging locations, capturing the lives of marine wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on. Through his imagery and guidance, he aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the urgent need to protect it.

IMAGES BY Rafael Armada

Fine ArtPhotographer of the Year

2025 South Georgia Island

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, RAFARM1

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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