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Pe'ahi Canonball

Aaron Lynton

United States of America

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A molten lava river flows down the steep slopes of Mauna Loa during the historic eruption of 2022.

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Nominee

The Eye of Pele

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Whale Tail

My flash illuminates an otherwise dark shore break barrel just before the first light of the morning. Chasing surf before the sun rises; there's not many better ways to start the day!

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Honorable Mention

First Light

As the sunrises, it dances through the banyan tree branches. Such a large root structure, one can only speculate how old she is. But what I do know is, when you are in her presence, time slows down and everything seems to be alright.

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Tree of Life Sunstar

Just off the coast of Maui, this playful humpback whale calf frolics and plays at the surface. The mom keeps a close eye from below.

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In an attempt to avoid an even worse big wave beating, Rafael Tapia hits the eject button

Silver

People’s Vote Award

In the vast silence of the ocean, where survival is not guaranteed, the mother's protectiveness becomes a sacred vow. Her watchfulness reflects this unwavering dedication. Taken legally under federal permit NMFS #26727

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Kohola Queen

Sometimes you gotta pay to play, and here Jack Akrop found himself a touch out of position while paddling into this giant wave, which resulted in one of the biggest wipeouts of the year.