Dreamlike Kelp Forests
Photo by Gabriel Lu
Like a captivating dream, gliding through the dense kelp forests of the Southern California Channel islands will leave you breathless. Sunlight filters through the thick canopy, trickling down to the marine life below. These lush forests are among the most dynamic ecosystems on earth.
Orange Skunk Clownfish Territory
Photo by Gabriel Lu
An orange skunk clownfish darts out from the reef to charge an approaching diver. These cute little fish can get aggressive when protecting their family.
Up Close with Great Whites
Photo by Gabriel Lu
Here is another picture from our recent shark trip to Guadalupe on the Nautilus Explorer Belle Amie dive boat. He was less than three feet from my camera. Close enough for us to reach out and grab each other.
A Close Encounter : Cage Diving with Great Whites
Photo by Gabriel Lu
Last week we embarked on a Great White Shark diving expedition to Guadalupe island aboard the Nautilus Explorer Belle Amie. The crew on this top-notch operation gave us a thrilling experience as they lowered our cages into the baited waters of Baja California. Originally, I wasn’t too excited about cage diving but the intensity of the shark activity outside the cages was enough to keep even the bravest divers tucked inside. To capture this image, I hung outside the cage for just a moment, holding onto the bars as the massive great whites swirled around us. By the second day, I was happy to enjoy the show from the safety of the cage.
Flatfish Metamorphosis
Photo by Gabriel Lu
Flatfishes are born with one eye on each side of their head. During larval metamorphosis, one eye migrates to the other side of the fish’s head, producing asymmetrical features. By the time the skull is fully ossified, the eyes are permanently fixed in place.
