Beacon Photo Contest
“Through the Porthole”
For Beacon 29, share photos that capture your moments at sea. Life on the water offers endless perspectives—some framed by steel and glass, others by routine and emotion.
Description:
This theme invites seafarers to capture the world as seen through a frame—whether it’s a literal porthole, a window, a hatch, or even the view through a cabin doorway. It can also be interpreted symbolically: a glimpse into a moment, a person’s story, or a unique angle of ship life–unique compositions that draw the viewer in. What do you see, and what does it mean to you?
*Safety First! Always use caution in hazardous areas and use only intrinsically safe cameras.
Deadline: 15th August 2025
Contest Details
The 1st place winner gets their photo on the cover of the Beacon and an iPad! 2nd place winner gets a wireless Bluetooth speaker, and the 3rd place winner receive wireless earbuds.
Photo contest is open to Scorpio seafarers only. To submit a photo, please send the full-size image taken aboard a Scorpio vessel to the Beacon email with “Beacon Photo Contest” in the subject line along with permission for Scorpio to use the photo. Make sure to include your full name, rank, your crew ID#, and the vessel where the photo was taken. You may include a short caption up to 25 words. Please limit your submissions to 3 photos.
Contest themes and photo winners are decided by Captain Gaurav Arora.
Once the issue is published, winners are contacted and the prize is organized by the winner’s local manning office.
Beacon 28
The photo contest theme was “Moments of Solitude” and we had many wonderful entries! Below are the winners, selected by Capt. Gaurav Arora.
1st Place: Jerico Damasco
Deck Cadet, STI Mystery
A quiet, contemplative moment captured with honesty. The cadet in uniform sits alone, in reflection. This image speaks of the emotional solitude young mariners often face, especially during their formative sea days. The uniform becomes a symbol of responsibility, while the environment subtly amplifies the stillness around him. A poignant portrayal of solitude on board.
Jerico Damasco’s caption:
“This photo captures the essence of being alone, yet not lonely. A room of solitude, where the world outside fades away. The gentle rocking of the ship lulls me into reflection, as I ponder life’s journey. In this quiet room, I find my haven. The ocean’s roar is muffled, but I know it’s there, a constant reminder of the world beyond these walls. In this tiny sanctuary, solitude wraps around me like a shawl. A place where I can retreat and reconnect with myself. The ship’s heartbeat is a lullaby, as I drift into contemplation.“
2nd Place: Tejal Ramji Utekar
First Assistant Engineer, STI Memphis
This is a visually striking photo. The crew member stands quietly on the bridge wing, lit by the soft glow of the lights from wheelhouse, with a sky full of stars above. There’s a strong contrast between the warm interior and the vast, silent night outside. It really captures the feeling of being alone but connected to something much bigger—the sea, the sky, the journey. A powerful take on solitude during night watch.
3rd Place: Abhishek Singh
Able Seaman, STI Goal
The golden light, the open arms, and the lone silhouette against the setting sun create a very powerful visual. It feels like a moment of quiet celebration or surrender—something personal and emotional. While the image leans more toward awe and freedom, it still captures solitude in a meaningful way. A strong composition and a beautiful use of light and shadow.
Abhishek Singh’s caption:
“I have captured this moment after my work while watching the sunset, the best thing I can do everyday. Every sunset gives a happiness of passing a safe day, and every day is one day closer to home.”
Beacon 27
The photo contest theme was “Daily Routine” and we had many wonderful entries! Below are the winners, selected by Capt. Gaurav Arora.
1st Place: Captain Sandeep Saini
Master, STI Guide
This is a powerful and visually striking image that brilliantly captures the essence of a seafarer’s daily routine. The circular frame of the Boiler draws the viewer’s focus to the worker, while the sparks from the welding torch add energy and drama. The interplay of warm and cool tones, combined with sharp details and textures, enhances the depth and storytelling. It’s a perfect blend of technical skill and artistic vision, making it a deserving first-prize entry.
2nd Place: Dax Michael Ramo
Pumpman, STI Broadway
This is a vibrant and well-composed photograph that effectively highlights the routine yet essential tasks performed by seafarers. The low-angle perspective emphasizes the scale of the work and creates a sense of immersion, while the diagonal lines of the drip tray grating add depth and lead the viewer’s eye into the scene. The workers’ protective gear and the misty atmosphere from the cleaning process convey a strong sense of environment and realism. The bright, contrasting colors—yellow boots, red overalls, and the clear blue sky—add energy and visual appeal. This entry is a dynamic depiction of teamwork and hard work at sea, making it a well-deserved second place.
3rd Place: Akash Singh
Deck Cadet, STI Magnetic
This photograph beautifully captures a quieter, intellectual aspect of a seafarer’s daily life—the diligence and dedication of a cadet studying on the navigation bridge. The soft, natural lighting falling on the subject and the open pages creates a calm and focused atmosphere. The perspective, looking over the cadet’s shoulder, gives a sense of authenticity and places the viewer directly in the scene. The inclusion of notifications, printouts, and bridge equipment in the background subtly emphasizes the technical and meticulous nature of maritime work. This entry effectively conveys a different facet of life at sea, showcasing the preparation and learning required to navigate the oceans. It’s a thoughtful and inspiring depiction, well-suited for third place.
Beacon 26
The photo contest theme was “Sun, Skies, and Silhouettes” and we had many wonderful entries! Below are the winners, selected by Capt. Gaurav Arora.
1st Place: Aidan Anthony Pereira
Deck Cadet, STI Precision
This photo masterfully captures the vibrant energy of a sunset at sea, with the sun at the horizon perfectly aligned with the foremast, casting warm, golden tones across the sky and water. The ship’s deck, with its intricate details and lines, leads the viewer’s eye directly to the stunning sunset, creating a powerful sense of direction and purpose in the composition. The contrast between the vessel’s deck and the natural beauty of the sunset is striking, making this image both dynamic and visually captivating. This entry beautifully showcases the harmonious blend of human engineering with the natural world.
2nd Place: Aromal Shaji
Deck Cadet, STI Solidarity
This photo beautifully captures a stunning sunset with vibrant hues of red, orange, and purple blending seamlessly across the sky. The silhouetted mountains and boat add depth and contrast, perfectly complementing the rich colors of the sky and water. The
composition highlights the natural beauty of the scene, making it a visually striking and captivating entry that aligns wonderfully with the theme of “Sun, Skies, and Silhouettes.” The overall effect is both dramatic and serene, leaving a lasting impression.
3rd Place: Shounak Das
Deck Cadet, STI Guide
This photo beautifully captures the vastness of the sky and ocean, with the island and ship forming delicate silhouettes. The soft gradient of the sky and the subtle mist create a serene and atmospheric scene that aligns wonderfully with the theme. The minimalist composition and calming color palette make this a striking and evocative entry, perfectly showcasing the tranquility and beauty of nature.