Multi-award winning underwater photographer Josh Blank was selected as a Finalist in the highly-esteemed Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 by Oceanographic Magazine. Here Josh shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to get this top-notch shot plus the equipment he used to capture his vision.
How I Got the Shot
The image was captured at Lady Elliot Island on the southern Great Barrier Reef. During a period of rough weather, I decided to snorkel the protected shallow lagoon on the eastern side of the island. The plan was to photograph the many turtles feeding and cleaning on the reef, but as soon as we entered the water we came across a bunch of octopus all out of their coral crevices.
I counted at least eight different octopus with the highlight being the two captured in the image which shows the male initiating mating. The male would repeatedly make advances while the female would move away. This went on for some time until she eventually relented. This was a first for me so was very excited to be able to capture part of the moment.
Finalist, Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026, "Arms of Connection" by Josh Blank
The Gear
- Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Camera
- NIKKOR 8-15mm fisheye lens
- 200DL Underwater Housing for Nikon Z8 Deluxe Version
- Dual DS230 TTL Strobes
Learn From Josh
Josh has authored two underwater photography tutorial books, Big Animal Underwater Photography (eBook) and Advanced Techniques for the Big Animal Photographer (eBook) both available on his website www.joshblankphotography.com.au where you can also find his underwater photography blog, Wild Narrative. Or, you can join Josh on an expedition like the sardine run or shooting pelagic sharks.
Image of Josh Blank by Jennifer Idol
Additional Viewing
Behind the Lens: Pelagic Sharks in Cabo San Lucas with Josh Blank
Behind the Lens: Sardine Run in Mexico with Josh Blank
Secrets to Photographing Mako Sharks Underwater with Josh Blank [VIDEO]
How to Take a Great Octopus Photo [VIDEO]
Understanding Octopuses for a Friendly Photographic Experience
Josh Blank is a diver and underwater photographer based out of the Gold Coast of Australia. Through a combination of scuba diving and freediving, Josh is passionate about exploring the open ocean and photographing the larger marine species that inhabit the deep blue. With his photography he hopes to inspire, inform, and instill an interest in the underwater world. Josh is multi-award winning photographer, the author of two e-Books, and runs the Wild Narrative blog. Read more...
