Journey to Awe

Under normal light, many marine organisms blend into their surroundings. However under specific wavelengths of light, like blue or ultraviolet (UV), they can glow with vivid, unexpected colors. This phenomenon is called fluorescence. When these light wavelengths hit fluorescent proteins in the tissues of certain animals or chlorophyll in the cells of photosynthesizers, these molecules absorb the energy and re-emit it as visible light, often in bright reds, greens, or blues.

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Using fluorescence in underwater photography opens up a completely different view of ocean life. It reveals patterns, structures, and behaviors that are invisible under white light. For example, corals, anemones, and some crustaceans display stunning neon outlines or hidden markings when photographed with blue light. This technique uncovers a visual language that many marine creatures may use for communication, camouflage, or mating but which we can only observe with the right lighting.

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Fluorescent photography doesn't just make ocean life more beautiful, it also makes it more emotionally engaging. It adds an element of wonder and mystery, inviting viewers to see familiar creatures in an entirely new way. By exposing the unseen glow of the ocean, fluorescence reminds us that much of the marine world is still hidden, waiting to be discovered. Several of the images and videos in the gallery were taken using UV light. 

 

In the images below, move the slider to the left to discover how algea and animals fluoresce under UV light.