Articles

A well-camouflaged orangutan crab peers out from its anemone home, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
 

This week’s Photographer of the Week is Valerie Cornet, a marine scientist, conservation photographer, and underwater naturalist whose work explores the intersection between science and visual storytelling. Not only is Valerie talented with a camera, but she holds a PhD in marine biology focused on coral bleaching and reef resilience, where her research investigates how environmental conditions influence coral sensitivity to rising ocean temperatures.

Alongside her scientific career, Valerie uses photography as a tool to communicate the beauty and vulnerability of the ocean. Her images focus on species and ecosystems that are often under pressure. From whale sharks and manta rays to intricate reef ecosystems, her work aims to highlight both the biodiversity of the oceans and the urgent need to protect them.

Having spent years working and diving across the Indo-Pacific, Valerie approaches underwater photography with the curiosity of a researcher and the patience of a naturalist. She is particularly drawn to documenting animal behavior and the human stories behind marine conservation efforts.

When she’s not underwater with a camera, Valerie works at the intersection of marine science, data analysis, and conservation outreach, continuing to explore new ways to connect people with the ocean and inspire its protection.
 

Sand tiger sharks, surrounded by baitfish, hang out in an underwater cavern, Australia
 

A trio of mantas circle overhead, Palau, Micronesia
 

A nurse shark looks bored with its companion, Maldives
 

A pair of psychedelically-colored mandarinfish prepare to spawn, Palau, Micronesia
 

Eye to eye with a small version of the largest fish in the sea, the whale shark, Thailand
 

A green turtle heads towards the surface to breathe, Thailand
 

A manta passes by, partially obscured by a cloud of fish, Palau, Micronesia
 

A squadron of eagle rays pass overhead near Wolf Island, Galápagos, Ecuador
 

A young whale shark with an entourage of remoras, Thailand
 

A duality of Mola mola cruise through deep water, Galápagos, Ecuador
 

A bird’s-eye view of a manta ray cruising over a reef, Palau, Micronesia
 

To see more of Valerie’s underwater work, please give her a follow on Instagram.