Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, MARLEN6 - Oceanographic

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Finalist Adventure Photographer of the Year

Marc Lenfant French Polynesia

17°51′07″ S 149°16′01″ W,

Three surfers converge on the same wave at Teahupoʻo, French Polynesia, after a paddler is thrown from his board. The tow-in surfer immediately changes course, grabbing the cameraman to avoid a collision. At Teahupoʻo, where waves can become almost vertical, decisions are made in fractions of a second. This image captures the split-second judgment and teamwork needed to stay safe in one of the world's most demanding surf breaks.

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, MARLEN6

Marc Lenfant France

  • Follow Marc On Instagram

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Surfing
  • Accessed via boat
  • Olympus E-M1 II & 40-15mm lens
  • ISO 500, f8.0, 1/1600s

Marc is a French photographer who has called French Polynesia home for over 25 years. A geographer by training and avid traveler, he captures the deep connection between ocean, culture, and people through powerful imagery. From outrigger canoes and waves to underwater seascapes, his work focuses on the beauty and fragility of tropical marine ecosystems. A certified diver and sailor—having crossed from France to Polynesia by yacht—Marc combines exploration with environmental awareness, using photography to inspire a deeper respect for the ocean and its communities.

IMAGES BY Marc Lenfant

AdventurePhotographer of the Year

2025 French Polynesia

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, MARLEN5

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