The Farne Islands, located off the east coast of England, are home to the largest colony of grey seals in the United Kingdom. For many photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, these islands are a dream destination due to the incredible marine life and unique underwater opportunities they offer. Ellen Cuylaerts embarked on a journey to capture the essence of this remarkable place, eventually earning 2nd Place in the Cold Water category of the Ocean Art 2016 competition. Her trip was not just a photographic expedition but a test of patience, timing, and respect for nature’s unpredictable rhythm.
The adventure began in Beadnell, a small village near Seahouses, where boats depart for the Farne Islands. Arriving in November, Ellen faced the notorious British weather, which has a reputation for being harsh and uncooperative. For weeks, the seas had been too rough, halting any boat departures and creating uncertainty about whether the trip would even be possible. Finally, fortune shifted, and the conditions allowed three consecutive days of diving. These days aligned perfectly, or perhaps ironically, with the occurrence of the supermoon, which triggered massive tidal shifts and strong currents. The ocean’s temperament transformed into a complex blend of opportunity and challenge, setting the stage for what would become an award-winning encounter.
Despite the difficult conditions, being in the presence of the grey seals was a reward in itself. Their curious faces occasionally popped above the water’s surface, giving glimpses of their playful nature. Beneath the surface, their silent elegance contrasted with the swirling currents and limited visibility. Ellen and her team adapted quickly, staying in the water as long as the tides would allow and shifting locations to find the best balance between safety and opportunity.
On one particular dive, the boat dropped them near a rocky area where there were no kelp beds to obscure the view. This proved to be a pivotal moment. The sun broke through the clouds, illuminating the water and enhancing the visibility. It was as though nature had decided to reward their persistence. The sudden clarity transformed the underwater scene, creating a rare window where light, environment, and subject converged in harmony.
Ellen’s approach to photographing the seals was rooted in patience and respect. Rather than chasing or startling them, she remained calm and allowed their natural curiosity to bring them closer. This method reflected her philosophy as an underwater photographer: to become part of the environment, blending in so that the wildlife reveals itself naturally. When the seals swam near, their whiskers glistened in the sunbeams that filtered through the water. Ellen used a combination of ambient light and her Sola 3000 light source to capture the fine details, dialing down her camera settings to balance exposure and enhance the natural rays.
This moment encapsulated the essence of the trip. It was not just about technical skill or equipment, though those played a vital role. It was about aligning with the rhythms of the natural world, waiting for the right moment when all elements come together. The Nikon D800 paired with a Nikkor 16mm lens, encased in Subal housing, became the tool through which Ellen translated this fleeting encounter into an image that would resonate with audiences worldwide. Her settings—F7.1 aperture, 1/250 shutter speed, and ISO 800—were carefully chosen to capture both the subtle play of light and the movement of the seals in the cold water environment.
The experience underscored a simple yet profound truth about underwater photography: success often hinges on persistence and adaptability. The ocean does not yield its treasures easily, and every image tells a story not just of the subject but of the journey taken to capture it. Ellen’s award-winning photograph reflects this narrative, embodying both the challenges and the beauty of the Farne Islands.
Her achievement in the Ocean Art 2016 competition is more than a testament to her technical ability. It speaks to her dedication to the craft, her willingness to endure discomfort for the sake of authenticity, and her deep respect for the marine life she photographs. The grey seals of the Farne Islands, with their inquisitive eyes and playful demeanor, became partners in the creation of a piece of art that continues to inspire. Through this image, Ellen not only captured a moment but also conveyed a message about patience, harmony with nature, and the rewards of perseverance in the face of uncertainty.
Understanding the Grey Seals of the Farne Islands
The Farne Islands are more than just a cluster of rocky outcrops off the Northumberland coast. They are a living sanctuary, home to one of the most significant grey seal populations in the United Kingdom. For an underwater photographer like Ellen Cuylaerts, understanding the behavior and ecology of these marine mammals was not just a matter of curiosity but a necessity for capturing an authentic and impactful image. Her award-winning photograph did not happen by chance; it was built upon a foundation of research, observation, and respect for the species that calls these waters home.
Grey seals, known scientifically as Halichoerus grypus, are one of the rarest seal species in the world, making the Farne Islands an important conservation site. The colony here is estimated to number in the thousands, with the population growing each year. These seals are particularly captivating due to their expressive faces and playful behaviors. Unlike some marine animals that maintain a wary distance, grey seals often display a curious nature, approaching divers to investigate. This natural inquisitiveness makes encounters both thrilling and challenging, as the photographer must balance the desire to capture close interactions with the responsibility to avoid disrupting the animals’ natural behavior.
Ellen’s preparation for the trip included learning about the seasonal patterns of the seals. November is a critical month for the colony as it coincides with the pupping season. During this time, female seals give birth on the rocky beaches, and the males engage in displays of dominance to secure mates. Understanding this context helped Ellen approach the dives with sensitivity. The presence of newborn pups and protective mothers meant maintaining a respectful distance when necessary and reading the seals’ body language to avoid causing stress.
Her time in the water revealed the dynamic personalities of these marine mammals. Some seals approached cautiously, peering from a distance, while others boldly swam within arm’s reach, their large eyes studying the strange human presence. It was during these moments that Ellen’s philosophy as a photographer shone through. She did not rush the interaction or attempt to control it. Instead, she allowed the seals to dictate the terms of engagement. This patience paid off, creating an environment of trust that translated into natural, unforced images.
The challenges of photographing in cold water added another layer of complexity. The North Sea in November is far from forgiving. With temperatures often hovering around 8°C or lower, staying in the water required not only physical endurance but also careful equipment management. Cold water affects both the diver and the gear. Batteries drain faster, condensation becomes a threat inside camera housings, and the diver’s dexterity can be compromised by thick gloves and the numbing chill. Ellen’s experience and preparation allowed her to navigate these obstacles, ensuring that technical issues did not overshadow the opportunity to capture meaningful moments.
Lighting in such conditions is another challenge unique to cold water photography. The low angle of the winter sun, combined with the often-overcast skies of the UK, creates dim and diffuse lighting underwater. While this can result in moody, atmospheric shots, it also demands careful balancing of artificial and natural light. Ellen’s use of the Sola 3000 light was a strategic choice. Rather than overpowering the ambient light, she used it to complement the sun’s rays, highlighting the fine details of the seals’ whiskers and fur without creating harsh contrasts. This subtle interplay of light became a defining characteristic of the final image, adding depth and texture that elevated it beyond a simple wildlife portrait.
Beyond the technical aspects, there is an emotional depth to photographing grey seals that is difficult to articulate. These animals exude a sense of intelligence and playfulness that creates a connection between the subject and the photographer. Ellen often describes her underwater encounters as conversations without words, where mutual curiosity bridges the gap between species. In the Farne Islands, this silent dialogue was enriched by the unique environment. The rocky seabed, swaying kelp, and shifting currents provided a dynamic backdrop that mirrored the energy of the seals themselves.
Ellen’s awareness of conservation issues added another layer of meaning to her work. Grey seals in the UK have faced historical challenges, from hunting to habitat disruption. Although their numbers have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts, they remain vulnerable to environmental changes and human interference. By capturing the beauty and individuality of these animals, Ellen’s photograph serves as both art and advocacy. It invites viewers to appreciate the seals not just as subjects of a stunning image but as vital members of a fragile ecosystem.
The experience in the Farne Islands reinforced a principle that Ellen carries into all her underwater photography: the image is not just about the subject but about the relationship between the subject, the environment, and the photographer. Each dive is a negotiation, a balancing act between observation and interaction. The seals, with their gentle curiosity and sudden bursts of playfulness, became active participants in this process. They were not simply captured by the camera; they co-created the moment.
In reflecting on this part of her journey, Ellen often speaks of the unpredictability of the ocean. No matter how much planning goes into a trip, nature always has the final word. The supermoon’s influence on the tides, the fleeting sunlight breaking through the clouds, and the seals’ willingness to engage were all factors beyond her control. Yet, it was precisely this unpredictability that made the experience so profound. The photograph that earned her 2nd Place in the Cold Water category of Ocean Art 2016 is a testament to the beauty that emerges when preparation meets serendipity.
Ultimately, the story of the Farne Islands is not just about a single image or even a single trip. It is about the ongoing relationship between humans and the ocean, between art and nature. Ellen’s work captures a moment in that relationship, a glimpse into a world where cold water, wild creatures, and human artistry intersect. Through her lens, the grey seals of the Farne Islands are not just marine mammals; they are ambassadors of a world that exists parallel to our own, inviting us to slow down, observe, and appreciate the delicate balance that sustains life beneath the surface.
The Art and Technique Behind the Cold Water Image
Creating an image that resonates both artistically and emotionally requires more than just technical proficiency. For Ellen Cuylaerts, the journey to capturing her award-winning photograph in the Farne Islands was a culmination of years of experience, understanding light and composition, and the ability to adapt to the unpredictable nature of the ocean. In cold water photography, where conditions are often harsh and fleeting moments define success, technique becomes inseparable from artistry.
The foundation of Ellen’s image lies in her deliberate approach to composition. Underwater photography presents unique challenges in framing because the environment is in constant motion. The photographer, the subject, and even the particles in the water are never truly still. In the Farne Islands, the presence of shifting currents and the seals’ unpredictable movements required Ellen to adopt a fluid, responsive style of shooting. Instead of forcing a specific composition, she allowed the natural behavior of the seals and the surrounding environment to guide the frame. This organic approach created a sense of authenticity that became one of the defining features of the image.
The use of a Nikon D800 paired with a Nikkor 16mm lens was a deliberate choice. Wide-angle lenses are essential in underwater wildlife photography because they allow the photographer to get physically closer to the subject while still capturing the surrounding environment. This proximity is key for maintaining color accuracy and reducing the amount of water between the lens and the subject, which can otherwise create a hazy effect. For Ellen, the wide-angle perspective also enhanced the sense of intimacy with the seal, drawing the viewer into the moment as if they were there in the water alongside her.
One of the most critical aspects of this image was the interplay of natural and artificial light. Cold water environments often present low-light conditions, and in the Farne Islands, the overcast skies added to the challenge. Ellen’s decision to use a Sola 3000 light to supplement the ambient light was not about overpowering the scene but about enhancing the natural rays of the low winter sun. She carefully balanced the strobe and the natural light to create a soft, even illumination that highlighted the fine details of the seal’s fur and whiskers. This subtle lighting created depth without sacrificing the authenticity of the scene, a hallmark of Ellen’s style.
Color management in cold water photography is another layer of complexity. Water naturally absorbs and scatters light, with red wavelengths disappearing first, followed by orange and yellow. In the cold, often greenish waters of the North Sea, this effect can create a muted, monochromatic palette. Ellen’s understanding of this phenomenon allowed her to adjust her camera settings and post-processing techniques to bring out the natural tones of the seal and the surrounding water without over-saturating the image. Her goal was not to create an exaggerated version of reality but to reveal the beauty that already existed beneath the surface.
Beyond the technical considerations, Ellen’s approach to this photograph was deeply rooted in her philosophy as an artist. She views underwater photography not merely as documentation but as storytelling. Each image is an opportunity to convey a narrative about the relationship between the subject, the environment, and the viewer. In this case, the story was one of curiosity, connection, and the quiet elegance of life in cold water. The seal’s gentle gaze, the soft lighting, and the surrounding textures of the sea combined to create a portrait that transcended simple wildlife photography and entered the realm of fine art.
Working in cold water also demands a level of physical and mental endurance that directly impacts artistic output. The numbing temperatures, heavy exposure protection, and limited dive times mean that every moment counts. For Ellen, staying calm and focused despite the physical discomfort was essential. This mindset allowed her to remain patient, waiting for the perfect alignment of subject, light, and composition rather than rushing to capture as many frames as possible. It is this patience that often distinguishes a good underwater image from a great one.
Another element of technique that played a crucial role in this image was buoyancy control. In underwater photography, maintaining stable buoyancy is the equivalent of holding a steady hand on land. In the presence of strong currents, as was the case during the supermoon tides at the Farne Islands, this becomes even more challenging. Ellen’s precise control over her positioning in the water allowed her to frame the shot without disturbing the environment or startling the seal. This level of control is achieved only through extensive practice and an intimate understanding of one’s equipment and body in the water.
Post-processing is often where the artistic vision is fully realized. For Ellen, the goal was to maintain the integrity of the moment while subtly enhancing the visual elements that drew her to the scene in the first place. Adjustments to contrast, color balance, and sharpness were made with a light touch, avoiding the temptation to over-edit. The final image retains a natural feel, inviting the viewer to believe they are glimpsing an unaltered moment in the seal’s world. This restraint in editing is part of what makes the photograph resonate so deeply; it feels honest and unforced.
The award itself, earning 2nd Place in the Cold Water category of Ocean Art 2016, was a recognition not just of technical excellence but of the emotional weight carried by the image. It validated Ellen’s belief that underwater photography is as much about connection as it is about equipment and technique. The photograph’s success lies in its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and empathy in the viewer, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the fragile ecosystems that exist beneath the ocean’s surface.
Ultimately, the art and technique behind this cold water image reflect a balance between mastery and humility. Mastery of the camera, lighting, and diving skills is essential, but so is the humility to let the ocean and its inhabitants lead the way. Ellen’s photograph from the Farne Islands embodies this balance. It is a testament to the idea that the best underwater images are not taken; they are given by the sea, a fleeting gift to those patient enough to wait and skilled enough to receive.
Through this lens, the image becomes more than a snapshot of a seal in cold water. It becomes a meditation on the relationship between humans and the ocean, on the interplay between art and nature, and on the quiet beauty that exists in places few people ever see. For Ellen Cuylaerts, this photograph is not just an award-winning piece but a reflection of her journey as an artist, diver, and storyteller, forever intertwined with the cold, green waters of the Farne Islands.
The Emotional Depth and Conservation Message
Beyond its technical and artistic merits, Ellen Cuylaerts’ award-winning image carries a profound emotional weight and a strong message about conservation. Photography has the unique ability to bridge the gap between science and emotion, turning data and facts about marine life into stories that resonate with the human heart. In the cold waters of the Farne Islands, Ellen found more than just a subject; she discovered a moment of pure connection that speaks to the delicate relationship between humans and the natural world.
The gentle gaze of the grey seal in the image invites the viewer into a moment of shared curiosity. There is no sense of fear or dominance, only mutual respect and wonder. This dynamic is at the core of why underwater photography can be such a powerful tool for conservation. When people see animals not as distant creatures but as sentient beings with personality and presence, they are more likely to care about protecting their habitats. Ellen’s photograph captures this idea perfectly, using visual storytelling to foster empathy and awareness.
The setting of the Farne Islands adds another layer of meaning. This area is home to the largest colony of grey seals in the United Kingdom, making it a critical habitat for the species. However, like many marine environments, it faces challenges from climate change, pollution, and human activity. By highlighting the beauty and intimacy of this ecosystem, Ellen’s work encourages viewers to consider the impact of their actions on such fragile environments. The photograph becomes more than an image; it becomes a call to action to preserve these cold water sanctuaries for future generations.
One of the most striking aspects of this photograph is its ability to convey stillness in an environment defined by movement. The ocean is rarely static, and in cold water, the currents can be unpredictable and strong. Yet, in this frame, there is a sense of calm, as if time itself has paused to allow this connection between species to unfold. This stillness mirrors the need for humans to pause and reflect on their relationship with nature, to slow down and appreciate the intricate balance that sustains life in the ocean.
For Ellen, this image also holds personal significance. It represents not only a moment of success in her career but also a reminder of why she chose this path in the first place. Her journey into underwater photography was fueled by a desire to tell stories that matter, to give a voice to the silent world beneath the waves. Winning an award was an honor, but the true reward lay in knowing that her work could inspire others to see the ocean with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of responsibility.
Conclusion
The story of Ellen Cuylaerts’ 2nd Place Cold Water image from Ocean Art 2016 is one of art, technique, emotion, and advocacy converging in a single frame. It began with a journey to the cold, unpredictable waters of the Farne Islands, where harsh conditions and fleeting opportunities tested every skill a photographer could possess. Through patience, mastery of light, and a deep respect for her subject, Ellen captured not just a picture of a seal but a moment of connection that transcends the boundaries of species and environment.
The photograph stands as a testament to the power of underwater photography to move hearts and minds. It reminds us that the ocean is not a distant, separate world but an integral part of our shared planet, filled with lives that deserve protection and reverence. Ellen’s work bridges the gap between art and conservation, using beauty to spark awareness and empathy.
In the end, the image is more than an award-winning photograph. It is a story told without words, a silent plea from the cold waters of the Farne Islands to cherish and protect the wonders of the sea. It reflects the essence of Ellen’s philosophy: never let someone dim your light, simply because it’s shining in their eyes. In the depths of the ocean, where light is scarce and fleeting, Ellen’s photograph is a beacon—a reminder that even in the coldest waters, beauty and connection can shine through, inspiring change and honoring the delicate balance of life beneath the waves.