PHOTOGRAPHER Ralph Pace
LOCATION Monterey, California
“When I jump into water that’s full of animals, they usually all swim away. To them, I’m just a big, goofy thing that’s blowing lots of bubbles and making strange noises. So I’ve learned to be patient and wait for the perfect shot.
“I was snapping photos of kelp and sea urchins when I felt a pressure on my back. It surprised me, so I quickly turned around. It was a harbor seal, and it was swimming away! A few minutes later, I felt it climbing on my back again, and when I turned, it zoomed off, almost like it was shy. Harbor seals are curious and playful, so I figured it might come back. I thought, next time it comes, I’ll just stay…