ST JOHN, US Virgin Islands — A split shot showing the underwater and above-water views at Maho Bay on St John in the US Virgin Islands. Maho Bay is part of Virgin Islands National Park, known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. The image captures the transition between the tropical beach landscape and the vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Photograph by David Coleman. Maho Bay is a picturesque beach located on the north shore of St John, the smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands. It is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers approximately 60% of the island. Maho Bay is renowned for its calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal location for snorkeling, swimming, and underwater photography. The split shot, also known as an over-under or half-and-half photo, is a technique in underwater photography that captures both the underwater scene and the above-water landscape in a single image. This type of shot requires specialized equipment, typically a wide-angle lens and a dome port, to overcome the refraction of light at the water's surface. Underwater, Maho Bay boasts a diverse marine ecosystem. The bay's seagrass beds are a crucial habitat for various species, including sea turtles, which are often spotted grazing in the area. The underwater landscape also features patches of coral reef, home to colorful tropical fish, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. Above water, Maho Bay is characterized by its white sand beach fringed with lush tropical vegetation, including coconut palms and sea grape trees. The beach offers stunning views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands. The Virgin Islands National Park, established in 1956, plays a vital role in preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of St John. The park's protected status helps maintain the health of both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, ensuring that places like Maho Bay remain pristine for future generations to enjoy. Maho Bay's accessibility and natural beauty make it a popular destination for visitors to St John. Its combination of calm waters, rich marine life, and scenic beach views exemplify the tropical paradise that the US Virgin Islands are known for, attracting nature lovers, photographers, and beach enthusiasts from around the world.
Size: 2935px × 4431px
Location: Maho Bay, St John, St. John, Virgin Islands
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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