Franco Banfi has been shooting the underwater world for more than 35 years. An award-winning photographer and Isotta ambassador, he has also led countless wildlife photography tours all over the world so that others may share in his passion for life beneath the waves. We head behind the lens to find out more about Franco’s ocean experiences.

OM: When and how did you first connect with the ocean?

FB: One of my most significant early memories was on a trip to the Maldives. Back then, I didn’t understand a huge amount about the ocean and its inhabitants, but I remember photographing coral and colourful fish, eventually some turtles, and being completely intrigued. It was so exciting to be there, everything was beautiful and I took so many pictures that I would share with family and friends for as long as they would put up with. I went back several times but witnessing how the fish populations had started to decline with each trip was tough. I stopped going for a few years, but 10 years ago I returned and I was very surprised to see how nature had started to bounce back. I think there is more concern about reef and ocean conservation these days. I was thrilled to see sharks, whale sharks, mantas, friendly turtles and lot of bright fish.