3rd Place winner
Kelp Warrior
DESCRIPTION
Kelp Warrior is part of a underwater fine art photography series is a visual meditation on the symbiotic relationship between the feminine form and the untamed beauty of the underwater world. Shot within the surreal and serene kelp forests of California's Channel Islands, each image invites viewers into a dreamlike world where women—representing diverse archetypes—become part of the ocean's delicate ecosystem. The kelp, with its garden-like quality, acts as both sanctuary and mirror, reflecting themes of transformation, power, and rebirth.The tattooed woman, floating in the kelp forest, represents the archetype of The Warrior—someone who has faced inner or outer battles and carries the marks of her journey. Her tattoos are symbolic of life experiences, personal victories, and scars that she wears with pride. This archetype celebrates individuality, embracing imperfections, and standing strong in her vulnerability.
Her presence underwater is powerful yet serene. The way she interacts with the environment shows harmony between her strength and the natural world around her. She is both fierce and grounded, representing the unbreakable connection between personal identity and nature’s raw beauty.
AUTHOR
Fran Reina is an Italian underwater photographer based in Mexico. Drawn to water from an early age, she pursued a career traveling as a scuba diving instructor and underwater photographer. However, her true fulfillment came from capturing the natural beauty of the underwater world while incorporating the human element into each scene.Through her art, Fran seeks to highlight the beauty and tranquillity of the underwater environment. Her work focuses on integrating the human form into the underwater landscape, creating a powerful connection between the viewer and the scene. By featuring a variety of human figures that are not typically represented within modern beauty standards, she aims to promote inclusivity and inspire self-esteem in both the subjects and viewers.
Despite being an experienced scuba diving instructor, Francesca captures all of her underwater images while breath-holding. This technique allows her to move fluidly through the water without the burden of heavy equipment, creating a deeper connection with the subject—also breath-holding—and the surrounding environment.
