Gintarė began diving in high school in Lithuania alongside her father, an experience that helped her feel at home underwater. She later continued diving through her graduate studies in freshwater and marine biology, gaining experience in scientific diving. Now in Northern California, she is exploring a new coastline while working as an environmental scientist for the State of California, helping protect marine habitats. Still at the beginning of her underwater photography journey, she enjoys slowing down beneath the surface, noticing small details, and letting curiosity guide each dive. Through this award, she hopes to continue developing her skills and share images that invite connection and care for the ocean.

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