People usually say that time is suspended during certain moments in life. This is how it feels when you're lost at sea, mesmerized by the presence of these giants.

Swimming with whales is the reward that comes after taking many steps... waiting for the season, getting on a boat, spotting the right animals, approaching them the good way...

On this day, I tried to approach this mother and her playful calf. At first, she was a bit worried by my presence, putting herself as a barrier between me and her little one, pushing her away when she was coming too close. It took a while (and a lot of swimming) but I finally managed to gain her trust. And the show began...

During two hours that felt like minutes, this calf played around me, making splashes with his fins, coming very close (like a meter away!). I took a lot of images at first but stopped after a while, allowing myself to fully enjoy the moment. Alone in the water, making splashes and rolling!

Up until her mother decided it was time to go... so I quickly grabbed my camera again - which was floating around - and took this image. One last glance after having met and played in the middle of the Pacific ocean. A few cherished hours that are now memories... Until we meet again.