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Ocean’s Happiest Face

A resting Leopard / Zebra Shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) getting a gentle clean—and showing its unmistakable smile. A peaceful moment that reveals how gentle these sharks truly are.

Awards

Color Photography Contest

2026

Nominee

Underwater

Non Professional

Ocean’s Happiest Face

A resting Leopard / Zebra Shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) getting a gentle clean—and showing its unmistakable smile. A peaceful moment that reveals how gentle these sharks truly are.

About Artist

Vadim Belakhov

I am a certified freediver and underwater photographer based in Melbourne, Australia. Photography has been a long-standing passion of mine, and about five years ago I combined it with another passion—freediving—turning breath-hold diving into both my way of exploring the underwater world and my creative tool. Whether I am travelling or diving locally in Port Phillip Bay, I focus on telling visual stories that show you do not need to be a scuba diver to experience the extraordinary beauty the ocean has to offer.

Vadim Belakhov

Photographic Areas of Focus

Macro, Underwater

Location

Australia

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Honorable Mention
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