Sharks ’ skylight

At sunset in Moorea , Polynesia , sharks and seabirds meet at the surface in a lavish display of form and colour . Photographer Renee Capozzola was awarded Underwater Photographer of the Year 2021 with this photograph , taken during a visit to Moorea in August last year when she was hoping to shoot the sunset through the water ’ s surface . “ It took many attempts , but on this particular evening the water was calm , the sharks came into a nice composition , and I got lucky with the birds as well ,” Renee said . Competition judge Alex Mustard described the photograph as an image of hope . “ It ’ s a glimpse of how the ocean can be when we give it a chance , thriving with spectacular life both below and above the surface .”

RENEE CAPOZZOLA / UPY2021