Underwater Photography Prodigy: Pari Na Ayudhya's Hasselblad Masters Triumph

Panitbhand Paribatra “Pari” Na Ayudhya, a remarkable 14-year-old from Thailand, has made a significant impact in the world of photography by claiming victory in the Project // 21 category of the acclaimed Hasselblad Masters 2026 photo competition. This achievement is not his first, with previous accolades including being named Photographer of the Year Under-18 by the Shark Trust and receiving a Commendation at the Siena Awards. Pari’s strategic approach to the competition involved analyzing past winners to understand the blend of uniqueness and thematic coherence required for success, ultimately leading him to select three compelling underwater photographs that stood out aesthetically and conceptually.

Pari’s journey into underwater photography began at the earliest legal age for scuba diving, ten years old, quickly followed by rescue certification. His initial desire to document his underwater explorations evolved into a passion for capturing the intricate beauty of marine life. This dedication, combined with his technical skills and innovative approach, such as improvising with video lights and filters during blackwater dives, has enabled him to overcome the inherent challenges of underwater photography. Beyond his personal achievements, Pari is deeply committed to ocean conservation, using his photographic talent to raise awareness and “pay back” to the marine environment that inspires him, aiming to pursue a career in ocean-related science rather than full-time professional photography, ensuring his passion remains a cherished hobby.

Pari’s Hasselblad Masters Triumph and Innovative Techniques

Panitbhand Paribatra “Pari” Na Ayudhya, a mere 14 years of age, astounded the photography world by securing the top honor in the Project // 21 division of the highly regarded Hasselblad Masters 2026 photographic competition. His victory was not a stroke of luck but a result of meticulous planning and a deep understanding of the contest’s criteria. Pari meticulously studied previous winners to discern a pattern of both individuality and stylistic unity among the winning entries. This strategic insight guided his selection of three distinct yet harmoniously linked underwater photographs that ultimately captivated the judges. His success underscores not only his extraordinary talent but also a precocious analytical ability that belies his youth, positioning him as a rising star in the realm of visual artistry.

Pari’s award-winning images were captured during a challenging blackwater dive in the Philippines, an experience that demanded both exceptional diving proficiency and photographic ingenuity. During these nocturnal open-ocean dives, photographers descend into abyssal depths, relying on powerful lights to attract plankton and, subsequently, deep-sea creatures. Pari’s innovative technique involved initially using a standard flash for clear shots, then experimenting with slow shutter speeds in conjunction with a video light and filters to create a dynamic, ethereal effect, while still retaining crisp detail through a final flash exposure. This blend of technical mastery and creative improvisation, executed in such a demanding environment, highlights his advanced skill set. His achievement, coupled with prizes including a 5,000 euro creative fund and high-end Hasselblad camera equipment, cements his status as a formidable talent in the photography landscape, inspiring peers and veterans alike.

Mastering the Depths: Pari’s Journey in Underwater Photography

Pari’s profound connection to the ocean began at an early age, leading him to become a certified scuba diver at the tender age of ten—the earliest possible age permitted. His immediate progression to a diving rescue certification further illustrates his dedication and expertise in aquatic environments. Initially driven by a desire to document his underwater explorations, Pari quickly transcended basic record-keeping. Confronted with the “really bad” quality of his early attempts with an action camera, he committed himself to refining his photographic skills, rapidly progressing in both technique and equipment. His current setup, featuring a Nikon Z8 with a Nikkor Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S macro lens and Kraken strobes, exemplifies his professional approach to capturing the intricate details of marine life, including subjects as small as a ping-pong ball-sized octopus.

Underwater photography presents a unique array of challenges, from unpredictable water conditions and constantly moving subjects to issues of visibility and the ethical imperative of not disturbing marine life. Pari emphasizes the difficulty of controlling environmental factors and the swift movements of oceanic creatures, necessitating constant readiness and quick adjustments. He meticulously prepares his camera settings before entering the water, practicing on stationary objects to ensure optimal configuration before any marine encounter. His deep respect for the ocean is evident in his role as an Ocean Ambassador for the Manta Trust and a Young Shark Ambassador for Fins Attached Marine Research and Conservation. Through his “Pay Back to the Ocean” photo exhibition and various presentations, Pari utilizes his photographic passion not for professional ambition, but as a powerful tool for environmental advocacy. While he foresees a future career aligned with ocean science, he cherishes photography as a “number one hobby,” ensuring it remains a source of joy rather than a professional obligation, affirming his commitment to both artistic expression and marine conservation.