Sea Lions at play
I recently reprocessed this photograph that was originally shot back in 2001 on a trip to the Galapagos Islands. There isn’t much dramatic change from the original version, just a bit more contrast and pop I wanted to add. However, aside from the technical processing tweaks, this photograph remains symbolic of one of my most memorable experiences with wildlife.
There is a sea lion colony off Santiago Island in the Galapagos that congregates around a place called “Cousins Rock.” The name is appropriate, because this “island” looks like a rock sticking out of the ocean, although a rather large one. Waves and surf crashed against and battered its surface, making it look like a particularly unfriendly place to visit. But the sea lions like it, and I am sure it offers some protection against predators.
Tug-of-War
As we took the inflatable craft from the main boat to this rock, our dive guide handed us a rope. At first we thought it was because of heavy currents in the area. But he explained..”No, this is for tug-of-war.” The sea lions apparently get a lot of amusement not only swimming around clumsy divers, but having their way with you in a game of tug-of-war as well. As you can imagine, it was great fun.
Working on this image again reminds me of so many things – the playful nature of these wonderful animals, the crashing surf of the environment, and the effortlessness of their movement underwater. It is one of those experiences that you remember for a lifetime.
Hi! Love the picture of selions at play. Thanks for posting that again (I haven`t seen it before).
BR Lars Andreas Dybvik
Hi Mark, the photo of playing sealions is amazing! Thanks for posting. It must have been unforgettable experience.
Wonderful scene and image Mark, that must have been an incredible adventure, thanks for sharing it with us !!
Mark, what a wonderful experience these photos so beautifully represent. I think it’s easy to lose touch with the fact that we are but one of many intelligent species on this blue/green planet. Your visit to the sea lions environment was one I truly envy-beautiful photos, sir.
Your photographs give me a welcome peek into one of the planet’s gifts that I will never enjoy except vicariously. And, by the way, the blues are stunning. How nice for us that you periodically revisit old files.
Thanks a lot folks. It would be nice to get back there someday.
Cool shot Mark. Was that your first experience with underwater photography?
Thanks Richard. To your question – no it wasn’t – I would have to go back to around 1994 for that!
Surely a tremendous experience this must have been. Beautiful shot.
What an amazing experience!!! Great pictures of sealions.