There were several images I really liked, but this one stands out.
It has a painting quality to it with nice pastel color. The slight blurriness and the bubble streaks really convey a sense of being underwater in the habitat of these salmon. I also like the dynamic feel of motion.
2nd place:
Very close (I went back and forth about who the winner should be: Terry Browker
This B&W image has already won a photographic competition. It has a graphic feel to it; reminded me of Japanese art for some reason. The halftones are beautifully chosen and the bokeh enhances the main subject.
3rd place: I struggled with that one too and settled on
by Allen Hart. The captured scene is very unusual and intriguing. It is a photo that tells an interesting story. The post processing could be better with a straight horizon and a bit more contrast, but I liked it nonetheless.
Honorable mentions in no partiuclar order:
by Greybeard. I like the crispness of the image and nice juxtaposition of the two cuttlefish.
by Suzanne Mathia. I liked the way these tentacles were framed to create this elegant red "S" through the image.
by Walter Koenig Beautiful capture of this earthly alien. Crisp, great colors and detail.