They Come, They Look, They Vanish
Juvenile Southern Reef Squid are inquisitive and playful, gathering in small groups and keeping a careful distance. Their curiosity is obvious as they hover just out of reach. Then, in a stealthy move, they vanish back into the dark water — the only trace they leave behind is the image in my camera.
Awards
Color Photography Contest
2026Nominee
Underwater
Non Professional
They Come, They Look, They Vanish
Juvenile Southern Reef Squid are inquisitive and playful, gathering in small groups and keeping a careful distance. Their curiosity is obvious as they hover just out of reach. Then, in a stealthy move, they vanish back into the dark water — the only trace they leave behind is the image in my camera.
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.
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