Mobula ray school captured

Underwater photographer Brooke Pyke captured a school of mobula rays using a fisheye lens in Baja California.

“With marine life, you never know what you might see, and that's part of the magic.”

Mono Award 2026 win

Brooke Pyke won the Animal category at The Mono Awards 2026 with her black-and-white image.

Baja California location

The photo was taken in Baja California, Mexico's northwestern coastal state.

Gear used

Pyke used a Canon EOS R5 Mark II camera with a Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L fisheye lens and Nauticam housing.

Photography challenge

Pyke kept expectations low, knowing wildlife photography requires patience and luck.

Award prize

Pyke won AU$2,500 and an 8TB Synology NAS storage for her Mono Award win.