Articles
An ornate slippery goby sporting an impressive mouthful of teeth, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
Our newest DPG Photographer of the Week, Cheng En Wu, hails from Taiwan and has developed a wonderful proficiency for capturing the ocean’s smallest and most intricate critters. Although Taiwan itself offers a rich variety of marine ecosystems and compelling underwater photographic opportunities, Cheng’s creative focus is largely drawn to the renowned macro meccas of Indonesia and the Philippines—and for good reason. Making up the most significant part of the Coral Triangle, these countries provide unparalleled access to the world’s most biodiverse reefs—and their most photogenic macro subjects.
Cheng’s portfolio showcases an extraordinary array of rare and fascinating subjects, from delicate nudibranchs and grumpy frogfish to octopuses and other elusive marine life. His images are defined not only by technical precision, but also by a keen sense of timing and composition, revealing intimate moments that often go unnoticed. Through his work, Cheng elevates these tiny creatures into captivating subjects, inviting viewers into a vibrant, hidden underwater world and fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity—and fragility—of marine ecosystems.
A spiky little Shawn the Sheep approaches the precipice of an algae leaf, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
A nearly microscopic cuttlefish developing in its egg, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
A peacock mantis shrimp holding tightly to a precious clutch of eggs, Romblon, Philippines
A creatively lit coconut octopus resting in his shell home, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
The wondrous Melibe colemani, one of the world’s most unusual nudibranchs, Romblon, Philippines
A beautiful little Cyerce slug looks like it is made of blown glass, Taipei
A coconut octopus that has taken up residence in an old pipe, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
A pair of yellow gobies watch over a clutch of nearly ready-to-hatch eggs, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
A creatively lit hairy frogfish, a sought after macro subject, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
A dusty frogfish lurks in the muck, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
An adorable pair of Shawn the Sheep share a small algae leaf, Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
The eye of a hawksbill turtle peers out of the darkness, Romblon, Philippines
A cardinalfish aerates a clutch of eggs he’s mouthbrooding, Romblon, Philippines
To see more of Cheng En Wu’s wonderful macro work, head over to his Instagram page.
