Age: 30 

How long have you been a shooter: Five years 

How long an underwater shooter: Two years 

How long diving: Eight years 

Day job: PADI master scuba diver trainer, underwater photographer and filmmaker 

Favorite underwater camera: My trusty Canon PowerShot G16

Favorite place to be underwater with a camera: I recently moved to the Red Sea, in Egypt. The clarity of the ­water, ­vibrance of the corals, abundance of marine life, and frequent large visitors such as sharks and rays makes it one of the most perfect places to dive with a ­camera. You truly never know what might show up, but you are guaranteed a ­beautiful dive every time.

Most unforgettable moment underwater with a camera: In New Zealand, I dived a site called Volkner Rocks, just off White ­Island in Whakatane. During this dive, we were joined by six bronze ­whaler sharks, hundreds of ­kingfish, and the biggest rays I have ever seen. It was a perfect dive, and as a team, we got some great ­footage.

Next underwater photography trip: I was thrilled to find that the prize for winning this category was a liveaboard trip in Honduras. I’ll be hoping to get out there as soon as I can.

No. 1 bucket-list dive destination: The Sardine Run. To be in the open ocean with huge schools of fish and amazing predators — I can’t even begin to imagine.

Advice for shooters entering their first photo contest: Surround ­yourself with work that makes your jaw drop. Ask ­questions, get feedback, and shadow ­talented photographers when possible. Keep shooting ­until you capture that one image that ­amazes you.