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Finalist Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Rafael Fernandez Caballero Bermeo, Spain

43°27'48.1"N 2°42'28.2"W

Mako shark at sunset. "Mako sharks are the fastest animal in the ocean," says photographer Rafael Fernandez Caballero. "Spending sunset with a predator like this is magical. Not only for creating pictures, but for witnessing it speeding along amongst the orange rays. It makes your heart beat a little faster. Mako sharks are endangered and, according to some scientific studies, face extinction in just a few decades."

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2022, RFC2

Rafael Fernandez Caballero Spain

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Taken while freediving
  • Windy conditions
  • 7:30am dive
  • Access by boat

Rafael Fernández Caballero is a photographer, filmmaker, renewable energy engineer, scuba diving instructor, expedition leader, and wildlife cameraman. Internationally recognized for his visual storytelling, he has won prestigious awards including Underwater Photographer of the Year, Ocean Photographer of the Year 2024, and multiple CMAS World Championship titles. As a National Geographic Storyteller, he combines exploration, conservation, and compelling imagery to bring the underwater world closer to audiences worldwide. He also works as an expedition leader, wildlife specialist, and cameraman for the TV series *Cazadores de Imágenes*. Through powerful photography and film, Rafael inspires ocean conservation and connection.

MORE IMAGES BY Rafael Fernandez Caballero