Winners
Thank you to everyone who took part in the Seas & Scenes: Love the Caribbean Photo Contest 2025! We were amazed by the creativity, talent, and passion captured in each submission. From breathtaking seascapes to vibrant moments of Caribbean culture, your photos truly celebrated the beauty and spirit of the region.
After careful review by our panel of judges, we are proud to announce this year’s winners.
Grand Prize Winners
🏆 Category Audience Choice Category
🥇 1st Place – Rusty Wallace
Click here for full Photo Story:
“I wanted to capture the feeling of freedom that comes from standing between two worlds—the calm, clear lagoon and the endless open sea. Flying my DJI Mini 2 high above, I saw how the island stretched like an invitation into the horizon, and I knew I had to freeze that moment of pure escape.“
🥈 2nd Place – Stephen Sookharry
Click here for full Photo Story:
“On a romantic evening get away at Chaguaramas bay, the beauty of nature in its rawest form with all its elements on display, naturally coming together to create such a resplendent display that will come and go in mere minutes of a day. I could not pass the opportunity to capture and share this amazing sunsetting day.“
🥉 3rd Place – Peter Rivera
Click here for full Photo Story:
“One of the wonders of bird photography is that you never know what you’re going to find. And that’s what happened with this Snowy Egret. It was a day when the sea was raging and the waves crashed against the rocks, and in the midst of that raging sea, a Snowy Egret danced among the waves. And although in its own world, it was just struggling to find food, to the observer, it was performing a piece of Water Dance.“
🏆 Category Caribbean Nature & the People who Love it
🥇 1st Place – Aracelis Jimenez
Click here for full Photo Story:
“At low tide, the waterline splits the world in two—the sky above and a nursery beneath the red mangroves roots. I took this in the Exumas, where the water was clear enough to watch juvenile fish shelter among the mangroves. This picture reminds me of the importance of these critical coastal habitats in offering a home for juvenile fish, reducing storm-surge impacts for coastal communities, and serving as long-term carbon sinks that benefit people and nature.“
🥈 2nd Place – Samantha Daniel
Click here for full Photo Story:
“I was inspired to take this photo of the green monkey, because of the quiet dignity it held in that moment. It sat there so calmly, lost in thought, almost human in its stillness. I love how the black and white tones bring out the textures in its fur and the mood in its expression. This wasn’t just a shot of wildlife, it was a moment of connection, a reminder that nature often mirrors us in the most unexpected ways.“
🥉 3rd Place – Nicola Cornwell
Click here for full Photo Story:
“Just a regular Sunday on Lower Bay, some kids were playing with a ball and errant throws required running into the sea to retrieve. The joy was infectious.“
🏆 Category Sailing & Yachting Adventures
🥇 1st Place – Sherard Little
Click here for full Photo Story:
“This photograph captures a grounded yacht on the Port Royal Cays, blending beauty and vulnerability. The worn vessel lies on a pristine sandbank, its faded sails and battered hull telling a story of nature’s power and the sea’s unpredictable mercy. It highlights the complex relationship locals have with the ocean—beautiful yet dangerous—reminding us that storms and failures are constant risks beneath the idyllic surface. The perspective contrasts the inviting turquoise waters with the wreck’s fractured state, symbolizing a moment frozen in time where the sea reclaims what’s lost. It reflects resilience, transformation, and the quiet beauty of life’s unpredictability. The scene urges viewers to appreciate Caribbean charm while respecting its formidable forces, acknowledging that love for the region involves embracing both its allure and dangers. Ultimately, the image is a metaphor for life’s unpredictable course—beautiful, fragile, awe-inspiring, and humbling.“
🥈 2nd Place – Anastasia White
Click here for full Photo Story:
“I ended up at the Calliaqua fish market and started snapping pictures of fishermen in their element. While taking pictures of them I learnt so much about, how everyone had different roles and how they also play an important part in ensuring food security. The excitement and passion they spoke with as they educated me on their reasons for becoming a fisherman and how they ensure that they’re being good steward of the environment. Managing the coasts, tracking ocean health , advocating for certain marine areas to be protected & passing down the information they learned from their forefathers, they continue to protect and preserve the environment that provides not only them and their families, but the community with the products of their labor. It’s important to highlight the individuals who don’t publicly show the work they do behind the scenes. The unsung heroes of the ocean: Fishermen.“
🥉 3rd Place – Chris Layman
Click here for full Photo Story:
“Island life had many different meanings while I was living in St. Thomas. To some it’s a causal day spent by the local pool bar your friends worked at; To some it’s your favorite beach/ bar/ quiet place cause it’s convenient to home. For myself island life meant I had a whole new world to explore and see all the beautiful pieces that brought it together. This photo encompasses what a well-planned day off looked like. Located somewhere off the coast of Hans Lollick we gathered, we snorkeled, we relaxed, we embraced the ultimate experience of an island soul.“
🏆 Category Audience Choice Award
🥇 1st Place – Rusty Wallace
“Where the Blues Meet the Breeze“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“I wanted to capture the feeling of freedom that comes from standing between two worlds—the calm, clear lagoon and the endless open sea. Flying my DJI Mini 2 high above, I saw how the island stretched like an invitation into the horizon, and I knew I had to freeze that moment of pure escape.“
🥈 2nd Place – Stephen Sookharry
“Summer’s Sunset“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“On a romantic evening get away at Chaguaramas bay, the beauty of nature in its rawest form with all its elements on display, naturally coming together to create such a resplendent display that will come and go in mere minutes of a day. I could not pass the opportunity to capture and share this amazing sunsetting day.“
🥉 3rd Place – Peter Rivera
“Water Dance“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“One of the wonders of bird photography is that you never know what you’re going to find. And that’s what happened with this Snowy Egret. It was a day when the sea was raging and the waves crashed against the rocks, and in the midst of that raging sea, a Snowy Egret danced among the waves. And although in its own world, it was just struggling to find food, to the observer, it was performing a piece of Water Dance.“
🏆 Category Caribbean Nature & the People who Love it
🥇 1st Place – Aracelis Jimenez
“Two Worlds at Low Tide“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“At low tide, the waterline splits the world in two—the sky above and a nursery beneath the red mangroves roots. I took this in the Exumas, where the water was clear enough to watch juvenile fish shelter among the mangroves. This picture reminds me of the importance of these critical coastal habitats in offering a home for juvenile fish, reducing storm-surge impacts for coastal communities, and serving as long-term carbon sinks that benefit people and nature.“
🥈 2nd Place – Samantha Daniel
“Stillness of the Wild“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“I was inspired to take this photo of the green monkey, because of the quiet dignity it held in that moment. It sat there so calmly, lost in thought, almost human in its stillness. I love how the black and white tones bring out the textures in its fur and the mood in its expression. This wasn’t just a shot of wildlife, it was a moment of connection, a reminder that nature often mirrors us in the most unexpected ways.“
🥉 3rd Place – Nicola Cornwell
“Wave Jumper“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“Just a regular Sunday on Lower Bay, some kids were playing with a ball and errant throws required running into the sea to retrieve. The joy was infectious.“
🥇 1st Place – Sherard Little
“Shattered Dreams, Silent Beauty“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“This photograph captures a grounded yacht on the Port Royal Cays, blending beauty and vulnerability. The worn vessel lies on a pristine sandbank, its faded sails and battered hull telling a story of nature’s power and the sea’s unpredictable mercy. It highlights the complex relationship locals have with the ocean—beautiful yet dangerous—reminding us that storms and failures are constant risks beneath the idyllic surface. The perspective contrasts the inviting turquoise waters with the wreck’s fractured state, symbolizing a moment frozen in time where the sea reclaims what’s lost. It reflects resilience, transformation, and the quiet beauty of life’s unpredictability. The scene urges viewers to appreciate Caribbean charm while respecting its formidable forces, acknowledging that love for the region involves embracing both its allure and dangers. Ultimately, the image is a metaphor for life’s unpredictable course—beautiful, fragile, awe-inspiring, and humbling.“
🥈 2nd Place – Anastasia White
“The Unsung Heroes of the Sea“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“I ended up at the Calliaqua fish market and started snapping pictures of fishermen in their element. While taking pictures of them I learnt so much about, how everyone had different roles and how they also play an important part in ensuring food security. The excitement and passion they spoke with as they educated me on their reasons for becoming a fisherman and how they ensure that they’re being good steward of the environment. Managing the coasts, tracking ocean health , advocating for certain marine areas to be protected & passing down the information they learned from their forefathers, they continue to protect and preserve the environment that provides not only them and their families, but the community with the products of their labor. It’s important to highlight the individuals who don’t publicly show the work they do behind the scenes. The unsung heroes of the ocean: Fishermen.“
🥉 3rd Place – Chris Layman
“A Day in the Life of an Island Soul“
Click here for full Photo Story:
“Island life had many different meanings while I was living in St. Thomas. To some it’s a causal day spent by the local pool bar your friends worked at; To some it’s your favorite beach/ bar/ quiet place cause it’s convenient to home. For myself island life meant I had a whole new world to explore and see all the beautiful pieces that brought it together. This photo encompasses what a well-planned day off looked like. Located somewhere off the coast of Hans Lollick we gathered, we snorkeled, we relaxed, we embraced the ultimate experience of an island soul.“
Caribbean Choice Awards
In addition to the main prizes, our panel selected 16 photographs that stood out for their unique perspective, technical skill, or storytelling. These Caribbean Choice Award winners represent the diversity and creativity of entries from across the Caribbean and beyond.
EPIC Advocacy Award – Awarded by the EPIC team to celebrate an image that captures the resilience of nature and the need for stewardship to shape a stronger, more sustainable future.
Celebrating Seabirds: EPIC Co-Founders Award – Named for EPIC’s co-founders whose early research showcased Caribbean seabirds and their life on land, in the air, and in the sea.
Journey Through the Islands Award – Awarded by Caribbean Compass magazine’s team to celebrate an image that captures the spirit of exploration across the Caribbean.
Caribbean Compass Magazine: Cover Worthy Award – An image with the visual impact and storytelling power to grace the cover of Caribbean Compass magazine.
Coolest Caribbean Critter Award – Celebrating native creatures, great and small, that make the Caribbean come alive.
Stories of the Islands Award – Honoring a photo that tells a story about people, place, and culture in the Caribbean.
Wave Keeper Award – A tribute to those who work and live alongside the sea.
Nautical Perspective Award – Awarded by judge Matthew Cohen, this award highlights the beauty, drama, and detail of maritime life.
Adventure Award – Awarded by judge Mathhew Burzon, this award honors the rush, energy, and excitement of life.
Sea & Wind Award – Awarded by judge Lexi Fisher, this award celebrates the harmony between ocean and sky, current and breeze.
Ocean Guardian Award – Awarded by judge Etienne Lake, this Award celebrates the beauty and protection of our oceans.
The Heart of the Caribbean Award – Awarded by judge Makil Bedminster, this award honors a photo that captures the soul of our region. Not only its beauty, but its resilience, its spirit, and above all, its people.
Guardians of Nature Award – Awarded by judge Irtha Daniel, this award showcases visual stories that inspire care and protection for the environment.
Coastal Generations Award – Honoring an image that captures the traditions and shared experiences of life by the sea, where culture and community are passed from one generation to the next.
Hope for Change Award – Celebrating an image that captures the delicate balance between growth and human development, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of environmental pressures.
Best Snapshot Award – Recognizing a single striking shot that captures a perfect moment, blending creativity, timing, and perspective into an unforgettable image.
Sea & Wind Award
Awarded by Judge Lexi Fisher, the Sea & Wind Award goes to Nicolle Trudeau for celebrating the harmony between ocean and sky, current and breeze. Taken in Union Island, St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
“In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, I was assessing the damage of the area. The waterfront in Ashton was completely destroyed, with the remaining pieces of buildings and boats scattered along the shoreline. The only thing that remained, was a tiny resilient floating hut. I took the picture with the last remaining light from the sunset as the island had lost all electricity. It was a reminder that the sun will set and rise another day.”
Judge Lexi Fisher's Comments
“I love how the photographer framed this photo; how the line in the foreground draws your eye to the floating hut and the pinks and purples in the sky above it, which are then reflected in the water below. The title and caption add depth and meaning to the image, especially for an island that was so heavily impacted by Hurricane Beryl.“
Celebrating Seabirds: EPIC Co-Founders Award
Awarded by the EPIC team, the Celebrating Seabirds: EPIC Co-Founders Award goes to Sherrel Charles for showcasing striking moments that bring seabirds to life. Taken in Redonda, Antigua and Barbuda.
“As the science communications officer with the Environmental Awareness Group in Antigua, I use photography and videography as tools to connect conservation with storytelling. One of my goals is to document the incredible wildlife we work to conserve while deepening my understanding of their biology and behaviour. I was inspired to capture this photo because of the striking indication of the sex of this Brown Booby. Birds exhibit an extraordinary condition known as sexual dimorphism, where animals of the same species display different physical characteristics. In Brown Boobies, this is most clearly seen in their beaks. Adult females display a soft pink coloration, while males exhibit a bold blue. These details remind me of the intricacies and diversity of nature. Redonda is home to 1% of the global population of this species, highlighting the importance of protecting them. Through my lens, I hope to share these wonders and help others better understand and appreciate wildlife.”
Why EPIC Chose This Photo
“The EPIC team selected this photo for its powerful combination of storytelling and science. It beautifully captures the connection between species and place, showing how one small island like Redonda can hold global importance for seabird conservation. The image’s clarity, color contrast, and educational value reflect the spirit of EPIC’s founding work: using research and stewardship to inspire protection of Caribbean wildlife.“
Journey Through the Islands Award
Awarded by Caribbean Compass magazine’s team, the Journey Through the Islands Award goes to Roy van Zutphen for an image that captures the spirit of exploration across the Caribbean. Taken in between Sint Maarten and Saint Barths.
“Out here, it’s just us, the sailboat, and the sea.
No noise, no distractions‚—only the sound of the wind in the sails and the gentle rhythm of the waves beneath us.With nothing but endless ocean ahead, and the silhouette of islands on either side, we felt something rare
Total freedom.This is what sailing in St. Martin is all about: letting go, breathing deep, and feeling completely alive. The Caribbean has a way of reminding you how good it feels to be off the grid and on the water.”
Why Caribbean Compass Chose This Photo
“Caribbean Compass magazine selected this photo for how powerfully it conveys the spirit of exploration and freedom that defines life in the Caribbean. The image and story capture the essence of sailing — connection, calm, and adventure — and remind us why time spent at sea continues to inspire those who call the islands home.”
Adventure Award
Awarded by Judge Matthew Burzon, the Adventure Award goes to Javier Campos for showcasing the rush, energy, and excitement of life. Taken in Venezuela.
“No matter how hard life is, face your challenges like a surfer faces the waves.“
Judge Matthew Burzon's Comments
“This image captures the essence of adventure through the silhouetted surfer confronting a powerful wave—symbolizing courage, agility, and the thrill of the unknown. The dramatic backlighting, crisp spray, and dynamic composition reflect both risk and resilience. Set against Venezuela’s wild coastline, the photograph and its caption together convey a deeper message: face life’s challenges with strength and fearless determination.“
Hope for Change Award
The Hope for Change Award goes to Ramiro Miranda Romero for capturing the delicate balance between growth and human development, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of environmental pressures. Taken in Parque Colon Beach, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
“I was walking along the beach at sunset, and I found this solitary seagrape in front of the city lights. It seemed so peaceful that I felt the same.“
Ocean Guardian Award
Awarded by Judge Etienne Lake, the Ocean Guardian Award goes to Nina Banks for celebrating the beauty and protection of our oceans. Taken in Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands.
“This beautiful Hawksbill Turtle was coming towards me on Radar Reef, Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands and my dive buddy saw it and tapped her tank for me to get the Photo. It was so precious swimming towards me to say HELLO!“
Judge Etienne Lake's Comments
“Hawksbill turtles are “guardians of the ocean” because they help protect coral reefs – one of the most vital ecosystems on the planet. They maintain ecological balance, they safeguard biodiversity, shoreline stability, and the health of the marine world.“
Coolest Caribbean Critter Award
The Coolest Caribbean Critter Award goes to Nathan Chinapen for celebrating native creatures, great and small, that make the Caribbean come alive. Taken in Surama, Region 9, Guyana.
“This curious fellow believed I was a branch and reached out to me as I photographed him, resulting in this funny photo. Guyana’s hinterland is a beautiful and wild place, and wildlife interactions just like this are commonplace. I believe showcasing our wildlife through photography and other art forms is an excellent way to foster conversation and conservation.“
Wave Keeper Award
The Wave Keeper Award goes to Bill Huggins for capturing a tribute to those who work and live alongside the sea. Taken in St. John, USVI.
“Cement worker headed home.“
Guardians of Nature Award
Awarded by Judge Irtha Daniel, the Guardians of Nature Award goes to Jane Irish for showcasing visual stories that inspire care and protection for the environment. Taken in Shirley Heights, Antigua.
“The best sunset party in the Caribbean happens at Shirley Heights, Antigua. It’s an iconic, beautiful setting that is often photographed. While the party is epic, the music mesmerizing and the view stunning, it’s the people that make this place so special. This creative gentleman offered a smile and a hand woven rose. A great reminder to slow down and savor every moment. The real treasure here – a priceless smile.“
Judge Irtha Daniel's Comments
“This image visually connects local, sustainable entrepreneurship with the preservation of the Caribbean’s natural environment, embodying economic development that respects the land and works with its natural materials.
It celebrates traditional craft, showing the crafter/artisan as a cultural guardian transforming natural resources into beautiful, eco-friendly products.
I love that you can see so much of the island of Antigua in the photo and the man looks so natural with a beautiful smile that embodies ‘the warmth of the Caribbean.’“
Caribbean Compass magazine: Cover Worthy Award
Awarded by the Caribbean Compass Team, the Caribbean Compass Magazine: Cover Worthy Award goes to David Polakoff for an image with the visual impact and storytelling power to grace the cover of Caribbean Compass magazine. Taken in Sir Frances Drake Channel, British Virgin Islands.
“Sailing along the Sir Frances Drake Channel, we had great wind an enough heel to enable the invigoration, satisfaction, and joy of sailing upwind. The water displacement and ensuing spray was refreshing and rejuvenating.“
Why Caribbean Compass Chose This Photo
“Caribbean Compass magazine selected this photo because it captures the rush and joy of Caribbean sailing in a single moment—the hull driving forward, salt spray flying, and open blue ahead. It feels like being on the rail, where sea and wind meet, and it reminds us why life on the water keeps calling people back.”
Stories of the Islands Award
The Stories of the Islands Award goes to Mark Krancer for honoring a photo that tells a story about people, place, and culture in the Caribbean. Taken in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
“Machete Meets Coconut in a scene that repeats itself throughout the day – a person living off the land in one of the truest forms possible, and providing a wonderful service doing so!“
The Heart of the Caribbean Award
Awarded by Judge Makil Bedminster, the Heart of the Caribbean Award goes to Jada Chambers for capturing the soul of our region. Not only its beauty, but its resilience, its spirit, and above all, its people. Taken in Baliceaux, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
“I once saw a graveyard come alive. It’s also the biggest graveyard I’ve ever seen. This place is called Baliceaux, a 142.1 km² island in the Caribbean that is part of the nation of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Baliceaux has a haunting history as beneath the feet of those who trod the land are the bones of 2026 Garinagu men, women and children who fell victim to what some consider to be, one of the greatest acts of genocide committed by the British.
Ironically, the attempt of the British to strangle the Garifuna heritage has led to a revival. Today, scores of Garifuna descendents from Central America, the United States of America, and the Caribbean conduct pilgrimages to Baliceaux to commemorate the pain that their people endured on that sacred island.
I made the journey myself, and that was when I saw a graveyard come to life. There were dancers and drummers. Emotions of sadness, anger, peace and joy exploded together across the island, and it came to life.“
Judge Makil Bedminster's Comments
“This year’s chosen photograph speaks profoundly to that essence. Taken on the sacred island of Baliceaux, it depicts individuals gathered on land that holds both immense sorrow and unshakable strength. Beneath this soil lie the remains of over two thousand Garinagu men, women, and children, victims of exile and genocide. Yet above it, life continues: descendants return, drums echo, and the community gathers in dance, remembrance, and revival.
In this image, the Caribbean’s heart beats strong. It honors our ancestors, acknowledges their struggles, and celebrates the unbreakable bond of people united by heritage, memory, and spirit. It reminds us that the Caribbean is not defined only by loss, but by the way its people transform grief into resilience and remembrance into celebration.
This photograph embodies the story of survival, identity, and collective soul. It is for this reason that I proudly award it The Heart of the Caribbean Award.“
EPIC Advocacy Award
Awarded by the EPIC team, the EPIC Advocacy Award goes to Quincy Augustine for capturing the resilience of nature and the need for stewardship to shape a stronger, more sustainable future. Taken in Mt. Hartman East Pond, Grenada.
“This photo was taken during a coastal field survey, where I spotted a Wilson’s Plover foraging among a shoreline littered with glass and debris. What inspired me to take this shot was the stark contrast between the bird’s delicate presence and the harsh reality of pollution surrounding it. To me, the image is a powerful visual reminder of how resilient wildlife is persisting even in degraded habitats. It also highlights the urgent need for conservation and habitat restoration, particularly in areas where nature and human impact intersect so visibly.“
Why EPIC Chose This Photo
“The EPIC team selected this photo for its strong blend of storytelling and science. A Wilson’s Plover perched on floating trash turns impact into insight, and its clarity, composition, and message align with EPIC’s mission to protect coastal habitats, reduce pollution, and engage communities in stewardship.“
Nautical Perspective Award
Awarded by Judge Matthew Cohen, the Nautical Perspective Award goes to Demornea Armstrong for highlighting the beauty, drama, and detail of maritime life. Taken in Little Bay, Montserrat.
“Through the natural frame of swaying palms, two vessels share the same turquoise Caribbean waters. A sleek yacht and a graceful sailboat. The contrast reminds us that no matter the size or style of the journey, the sea offers freedom and connection to all who embrace it. This moment captures the essence of Caribbean life: adventure, serenity, and the timeless beauty of nature surrounding every voyage.“
Judge Matthew Cohen's Comments
“Excellent use of a natural frame. The palm fronds guide the eye to two vessels sharing one horizon, and the scale contrast between superyacht and sailboat tells a clear story about access and belonging on the sea. Clean light, strong separation, and layered blues give the scene both calm and tension. A thoughtful nautical perspective that captures the character of Little Bay, Montserrat.“
Coastal Generations Award
The Coastal Generations Award goes to Simon Arvati for capturing the traditions and shared experiences of life by the sea, where culture and community are passed from one generation to the next. Taken in Caravelle Beach, Guadeloupe.
“This photograph was taken on a quiet afternoon in Guadeloupe, where the Caribbean sea meets a shore framed by leaning coconut palms. What drew me was the natural harmony between the landscape and the small human gesture: a father bending down to help his child build a sandcastle, under trees that seem to embrace the scene. To me, this moment reflects the essence of the Caribbean — not only its breathtaking beauty, but also the simple, intimate bonds that flourish beside it. It is a reminder that loving the Caribbean means cherishing both its fragile nature and the generations growing up in its shade.“
Best Snapshot Award
The Best Snapshot Award goes to John Griffith for recognizing a single striking shot that captures a perfect moment, blending creativity, timing, and perspective into an unforgettable image. Taken in Lance Aux Epines, Grenada.
“Every morning, I noticed this Bananaquit came to our Aloe Vera Flowers, and it seemed to be sucking the nectar out. So one morning, I decided to try to photograph it. I woke up early and positioned myself, and then waited. Not too long after the Bananaquit came in, with its beak and head all covered with pollen, even before eating from our flowers. While I was shooting, it was jumping around the aloe vera and stretching to reach some of the petals, ended up in this pose, and that’s how this shot was made.“
Celebrating Caribbean Voices
This contest was made possible by the support of our partners, sponsors, judges, and the incredible community of photographers who shared their vision with us. Together, we’ve created a gallery of images that will continue to inspire appreciation for the Caribbean’s natural and cultural heritage.
✨ Stay tuned for the next edition of the contest and follow us on social media for updates, stories, and more chances to get involved.