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Jungle meets reef at “The Passage”, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
 

Originally from Germany, Photographer of the Week Joerg Blessing has worked as a full-time dive guide and instructor in enviable underwater domains including the Coral Triangle and the Indian Ocean. Like many shooters, Joerg’s interest in underwater photography began years before he acquired the proper equipment and know-how. As a self-taught photographer, Joerg learned a great deal from underwater photography books by field luminaries such as Martin Edge and Alex Mustard, as well as from online underwater photography publications. Years ago, whilst working at a dive center in Bali, he had his first opportunity to share his love of scuba diving and underwater photography with guests.

Today, Joerg continues to share his passion for underwater photography through the custom courses he teaches and the beautiful images he creates. The appealing compositions, vibrant colors, interesting layers and textures in each frame are a testament to his seasoned acumen. His “office” is now below the surface, working with the Ocean Dimensions crew on Kihaa Island in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll. The famous manta and whale shark aggregation site Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO World Biosphere Region, sits close by and is easily accessible. Joerg considers the Maldives the perfect diverse playground to shoot reef scenes, big animals, and macro critters, or even great surfing action and wave photography.
 

Hypselodoris nudibranch, Lembeh, Indonesia
 

A curious hawksbill turtle cruising past, Laamu Atoll, Maldives
 

A night paddleboard that lights up the reef underneath, Laamu Atoll, Maldives
 

A Mola ramsay getting cleaned by bannerfish, Nusa Penida, Indonesia
 

A pygmy squid captures a tiny shrimp, Laamu Atoll, Maldives
 

Schooling bigeye jacks and diver, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
 

Tropical wave perfection in the Maldives, Laamu Atoll, Maldives
 

Pygmy seahorse, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
 

Wobbegong and diver, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
 

Coconut octopus, Lembeh, Indonesia
 

Goby hanging out on a sea star, Lembeh, Indonesia
 

Joerg Blessing
 

See more of Joerg’s gorgeous work at www.joergblessing.com.