Sunburst Silhouette

Photographer

JUNYA HIGASHI

Category

Fine Art Photography - Abstract

Company

Submission Group

Amateur

Year

2026

Country / Region:

Japan

"Captured in the crystal-clear waters of Iheya Island, Okinawa, during the height of summer, this image explores the ethereal connection between the ocean’s depths and the life-giving light of the surface. As a mermaid instructor, I seek to portray the underwater world not just as a physical space, but as a realm of spiritual harmony. The intense 'sunburst' filtering through the water serves as a celestial spotlight, illuminating the mermaid's silhouette as she ascends toward the light. This composition represents the universal yearning for hope and the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the vast, blue unknown. By stripping away detail into a pure silhouette, the focus shifts to the grace of movement and the overwhelming power of natural light."

More Honourable Mentions Winners
Amateur
2026

Midnight Cuban Diary

Photographer / Company

Bobby Izquierdo

Category

Fine Art Photography - Still Life

Country / Region

United States

Professional
2026

Wheel

Photographer / Company

Krzysztof Muskalski

Category

Minimalist Photography - Cultural Expressions

Country / Region

Poland

Professional
2026

The Serve

Photographer / Company

Arnab Sarkar

Category

People Photography - Portrait

Country / Region

India

Amateur
2026

The Sicilian Widow

Photographer / Company

Stephan Obermueller

Category

People Photography - Portrait

Country / Region

Germany