November 7th, 2026
I went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium to photograph the animals there. The most striking subjects for me were the jellies in the tanks. The lighting really brought out the colors and shapes of these animals. I took many shots in the low light. Photographing through the glass was a challenge—reflections, slight distortion, and the constant motion of the animals made getting them fully sharp difficult. This frame ended up being one of my favorites for the combination of lines, shapes, and color.
The animal in the photo is a jelly (the term preferred by many aquariums; “jellyfish” is also widely used and understood). It shows the classic form: a bell for propulsion and long, frilly oral arms used for feeding. Both the tentacles and oral arms are covered in stinging cells (cnidocytes) that capture small prey. Monterey Bay Aquarium has long been a leader in exhibiting and culturing jellies. Its displays feature both local California species and others from around the world, presented in specially designed tanks with dramatic lighting that emphasizes their translucent structure and color. Species such as sea nettles, moon jellies, and purple-striped jellies are regular highlights, and the aquarium has pioneered many of the techniques used to raise them in captivity.
In this image the strong blue background, the pink-orange oral arms, and the spotted pattern on the bell create a clean, graphic composition. The low light and glass required careful focus and timing, but the result freezes the animal’s delicate structure without the clutter of the tank surroundings. It’s the kind of shot that works both as a record of the visit and as a standalone fine-art image.
Bringing the Moment to Life
The late morning light really brings out the details of this stunning Jellyfish.
In our studio, I produced this photograph using our Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 and archival Lucia PRO II pigment inks. When printed on Red River Polar Gloss Metallic paper, the details and colors of this jelly show up in incredible, smooth tonal depth. The metallic paper beautifully handles those subtle midtones and colors making the scene pop off the paper without losing any fine detail in the fur.
Printed with an elegant white border for safe handling and a classic gallery presentation, this piece is flat-shipped in extra-rigid packaging to protect its premium reflective finish.
Bring the story home: Shop Jellyfish Print
Print Details: Available in 8.5" x 11" Paper (7" x 9" Image) and 11" x 17" Paper (10" x 15" Image).