Name: Luca Luigi Mario Ghezzi
Picture title: Love in the Deep
Category: Underwater
Nationality: Italy
Occupation: I’m not a full-time photographer. I work in the phytosanitary service.
Technical information
Camera: Canon 7d Mark ii
Lens: Tokina 10-17
EXIF:1/125 sec f/13 ISO 400
Accessories: Diving suit and torch
RUNNER-UP CATEGORY UNDERWATER
Luca Luigi Mario Ghezzi | Love in the Deep
Name: Luca Luigi Mario Ghezzi
Picture title: LOVE IN THE DEEP
Category: Underwater
Nationality: Italy
Occupation: I’m not a full-time photographer. I work in the phytosanitary service.
Technical information
Camera: Canon 7d Mark ii
Lens: Tokina 10-17
EXIF:1/125 sec f/13 ISO 400
Accessories: Diving suit and torch
Luca Luigi Mario Ghezzi says:
The Adda River, which flows near my home, is the body of water I know best. I often go snorkeling here, trying to capture fish through my lens. One day, I decided to focus on the European catfish (Silurus glanis), an invasive and predatory species that has spread through the Lombard waters in recent decades and now thrives throughout the Po basin. These non-native species have a significant impact on local biodiversity, causing the decline of native species and disrupting the balance of ecosystems.
I went to an area known for the presence of these fish, even though they are difficult to spot during the day. That day, however, I was lucky: beneath a pile of logs deposited on the riverbed, I spotted the shape of a fish. As I submerged to try to photograph it, I was surprised to discover that there were two. The two European catfish seemed to be embracing tenderly, and the pile of logs formed a natural frame, creating an image reminiscent of a pair of newlyweds.
When I surfaced, I carefully reviewed the shots, hoping that at least one was well-lit and managed to capture the scene I had just witnessed on the muddy riverbed.
Luca Luigi Mario Ghezzi
Italy
My passion for nature has been a lifelong companion, a deep love that I have pursued through countryside and mountain explorations during my childhood.
I’ve always been fascinated by the different forms of life, their unique characteristics and behaviors. This intense connection with nature led me to earn a degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Milan, where I completed my studies with a thesis in ecology titled “Microplastics in Barn Owl (Tyto alba) Pellets.”
My interest in photography also began at a young age, but it truly blossomed during a two-year stay in Australia. There, I had the opportunity to observe up close the animals that I had only ever seen in books and documentaries. This experience triggered a firmly established passion for wildlife photography. From that moment, photography became an essential part of my life.
Over the years, I have explored nearly every photographic technique, from underwater to macro photography. Taking part in wildlife conservation projects and traveling to different parts of the world have greatly enriched my experiences, deepening both my connection and respect for nature.
For me, wildlife photography is a way to reconnect with the rhythms and beauty of the natural world. Additionally, it serves as a powerful tool to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and preserve our ecosystems.