In this photo, you can see a tiny crab engaged in an unusual interaction with a jellyfish - a rare moment I captured underwater during a dive in Lake Grevelingen, one of the most beautiful and surprising dive sites in the Netherlands. The crab seems caught in a silent dance with its translucent prey, while fine details such as the jellyfish's tentacles and texture become visible if you look closely.
What makes this image special is the lighting. I used a snoot, a technique in which the light is highly focused on a single point. This creates a dramatic contrast between light and dark: the surroundings fade into mysterious black, while the crab and jellyfish light up like protagonists in an underwater stage. This technique not only highlights the shapes and colours, but also creates a sense of intimacy and silence.
My inspiration for this work comes from my fascination with the hidden life under Dutch waters. People often think of tropical reefs when they think of underwater photography, but it is precisely here - in our own seas and lakes - that magical moments can be discovered if you take the time to really look. This photo reminds me of the peace I experience while diving, and the sense of wonder when you come face to face with the unexpected.
The mood of this photo is mysterious, almost poetic. The image raises questions: is this an attack, a dance, or a chance encounter? This open interpretation makes the work not only visually interesting, but also suitable for interiors that focus on nature, tranquillity and wonder.
Whether you are a diver, a nature lover, or simply love unusual images with a story: this work is an eye-catcher with depth.
My name is Joost Boerman, born in the netherlands, but when I was 20, I moved to the sunny island of Aruba. Here I discovered the beauty of the underwater world. Soon I bought a gopro to capture this world. But when I moved to Australia a.. Read more…