“Chasing Dream in the Dark Blue,” Yue Hongjun’s marine photography charity exhibition is on display at the National Art Museum of China. As the first underwater photography exhibition showcased in the museum, it includes 60 of the Shenzhen photographer’s magnificent pieces, aiming to promote marine ecological protection.

Stunning underwater photos of Dapeng New District captured by Yue are displayed at the exhibition.

Yue, president of the Shenzhen Dapeng New District Coral Conservation Volunteer Federation, has been paying close attention to the protection of the marine environment. Over the past decade, he has dived over 700 times. In those dives, coral bleaching greatly shocked him. Since then, he has come up with a resolution to spread what Shenzhen has done in preserving the ocean through photography, highlighting the country’s efforts in marine ecological and biodiversity conservation.

Yue is also the vice chairman of the Shenzhen Photographers Association, and is the first in China to win the highest award of Chinese photography with marine photography, and the first in China to be admitted into the FRPS (Fellowship of The Royal Photographic Society) with marine photography.

From the Indian to the Arctic oceans, from tropical to frigid waters, Yue has captured various species – from tiny clownfish eggs using macro lenses, to humpback whales over 20 tons using wide angle lenses. Other stunning photos include nontoxic jellyfish from Palau and giant saltwater crocodiles in the Americas. This international-level exhibition also consists of immersive videos, featuring more of Yue’s outstanding works taken from well-known diving spots and secluded waters.

Yue’s distinctive style reveals the harmonious coexistence between humans and marine life. “The goal is protecting, instead of filming,” Yue said.

Here are some pictures photographed by Yue Hongjun:

Coral spawning at Dapeng Peninsula waters. Photos by Yue Hongjun

Anemone tentacle of Dapeng Peninsula waters

Sebellid of Dapeng Peninsula waters