The Wildlife Trust Selection

Charles Erb - Runner-up

Runner-up - Fireworks anemone and Squat Lobster by Charles Erb

I learned to dive in 1985 while at University in London. Though photography has been a passion since my early teens, I adapted my photographic skills to the underwater world only ten years ago. Although I have dived all over the world, I remain a UK diver at heart. My favourite dive locations are in Scotland and the South West of England.

The image was captured at Loch Duich in February 2008. This is a favourite dive site; the peaty run-off from the rivers makes the water dark, even though the water at depth is very clear. There is a very fine silt which is easily disturbed, so careful finning is required; there are many very impressive fireworks anemones and I was lucky to find one with a resident Squat Lobster. Not able to collect the prize in person, as I will be diving in the same location.