Swim Gym Laurent Ballesta, France

We were still a few metres from the surface when I heard the strange noises. Suspecting Weddell seals – known for their repertoire of at least 34 different underwater call types – I approached slowly. It was early spring in east Antarctica, and a mother was introducing her pup to the icy water. The pair, unbothered by my presence, slid effortlessly between the sheets of the frozen labyrinth. They looked so at ease, whereas I felt so inappropriate. Nikon D4S, 17-35mm f/2.8, 1/640 sec, f/11, ISO200