A photographer is showcasing the beauty of Western Australia's Abrolhos Islands with underwater photographs hoping they will be a clarion call to protect the archipelago's fragile beauty.
Graeme Gunness' exhibition Fathoming the Abrolhos at WA Museum of Geraldton showcases a series of photographs of the Abrolhos' underwater ecosystem.
Mr Gunness and his wife Ann moved to Geraldton about 20 years ago to be closer to the Abrolhos and its dazzling underwater world.
Over the decades, they have witnessed slow changes to marine diversity in more heavily fished and visited areas.
But they worry forecasted future increases in visitors will take a toll.
"So we decided that it's given us so much enjoyment over the years that we'd give something back and just show people what's there.
"Then maybe they can say, 'Well, yeah, maybe we do need to look after it'".
Underwater meditation
The couple has spent countless hours submerged beneath the surface at the Abrolhos.
Mr Gunness finds himself mesmerised by the multitude of different scenes.
He has gazed in wonder at the vibrant colours of sponges and the sheer diversity of life.
He has found himself engulfed by dark masses of baitfish swirling around him. He's played with inquisitive sea lions and found his heart racing at the sight of nearby sharks.
"I find it's like a meditation," he said.
"It's just you down there, and the worries of the world just disappear.
Underwater teeming with life
Mr Gunness's favourite photographs showcase the sheer diversity of life.
"Well, just have a look at the detail," he said, pointing to a photograph.
"You've got a little hawkfish there. You've got the hydroids, you've got all the coral polyps, four different types of corals, sponges, sea squirts.
