Meet Şebnem Coşkun, winner of MedFoto 2024 and finalist of the 2025 edition
Şebnem Coşkun, the voice of the ocean’s fragility
Do you remember your first encounter with underwater photography? What fascinated you about this world?
My interest in underwater photography actually began with my very first dive. The moment I took my first breath underwater, I was captivated by the enchanting blue world around me. At the same time, however, I noticed plastic bags drifting in the current. This contrast between beauty and threat moved me deeply, inspiring me to both document the wonders of the ocean and raise awareness of its fragility. I can say everything started in that single moment.
Your career has taken you to many countries. Has any particular photography experience deeply impacted you, both personally and professionally?
One of the most unforgettable moments of my career happened in the Arctic during Turkey’s National Science Expedition. At 81 degrees north latitude, on a sea completely covered in ice, a mother polar bear and her cub approached us. She stood up, sniffed the air, and waved. That moment felt like a silent cry: “See me, hear me.” That photo became a symbol of urgency for me — a call for help.
What did you feel at the moment you captured “Black death of baby sea turtles,” the winning photo of MedFoto 2024?
It was both heartbreaking and powerful. I was documenting the nesting season of sea turtles on the Hatay Samandağ coast when I witnessed hatchlings struggling to reach the sea due to a thick layer of oil on the sand. I felt helpless but had to act. I used my white T-shirt, soaked it in water, and gently cleaned the oil off the babies so they could make it to the sea. That image carries all the emotion of that moment — pain, urgency, and hope.
What do you believe is a photographer’s responsibility when documenting environmental impact?
I strongly believe that a photojournalist working on environmental topics must also be an activist. Every project should be backed by science and carried out with deep respect for wildlife. We must keep a respectful distance and avoid causing harm. This sensitivity should extend to our personal lives as well — from dietary choices to minimizing plastic use. I strive to live by this awareness every day.
You’ve developed many underwater social and environmental projects. Could you highlight one that has particularly moved you?
Recently, I documented how catfish — a rapidly increasing Lessepsian species in the Mediterranean — have begun nesting inside plastic waste. It was a striking image of how fragile nature has become, and how deeply pollution is altering ecosystems.
What advice would you give to photographers wanting to start capturing the ocean’s beauty and fragility?
Empathy. I try to connect emotionally with every image I take. A photograph is not just a visual; it’s a message. We share this planet with countless other species — and we have no Planet B. So respect, compassion, and responsibility should guide every frame.
How do you see the role of competitions like MedFoto in raising awareness about ocean and environmental conservation?
I truly appreciate MedFoto’s commitment to focusing specifically on environmental themes. It’s incredibly valuable that our work reaches wider audiences through platforms like this. The professionalism of the organization and its distinguished jury are truly inspiring. I will continue to support MedFoto in any way I can.
