Highly Commended - Annual Open Portfolio Competition.
British Society of Underwater Photographers (BSoUP).
December 2017

Judged by Robert Bailey

"Some nice images here. Caught my attention immediately. I like the high key image at top center with the svelte snorkeler, I think the shark pic (and I do love it), might not be the best choice for the grouping. Image from the cenote is nicely done, divers in the background can work some for some, and possibly distract others. The fishtail is a risk, personally I’m not sure it compliments the other images. Some very competent lighting, and a good range of techniques. This portfolio should feel at home in the highly commended category."

The brief ... which is the last major annual competition on the British Society of Underwater Photographers (BSoUP) calender:

"The objective of the Open Portfolio competition is to identify photographers who can demonstrate a range of skills in underwater photography. The overall impression of the portfolio should communicate variety, not necessarily of subject, but certainly of approach and technique."

N.B. In this instance, Highly Commended doesn't quite make the grade of being featured as part of the winning gallery - but it's still fantastic. Portfolios are tricky challenges. All the images need to be technically strong in their own right. As well as that, the layout and overall effect has to be harmonious. Almost but not quite there!

Photographer: Laura Storm