Laryssa Densmore is an avid professional photographer specializing in whale and dolphin photography. As an aerospace executive for several years, Laryssa was drawn to the ocean as a place of peace, joy and amazement. She believes there is as much power and mystery in the oceans as what lies in outer space and our galaxies.
"What I find astonishing is the communication between whales, dolphins and humans. I have enjoyed the invitation into their world and capturing their grace and beauty - if only for a short while"
Laryssa is an advocate for clean ocean waters and the protection of all endangered sea life. She also has donated several of her photographic pieces to help raise money and awareness for local charities in the South Bay area of California.
In addition to photographing the whale migrations in southern California, Laryssa has traveled to Alaska, Hawaii, and Mexico for a front row seat and the chance to capture the moment as it happens. She has encountered Humpbacks, Blues, Fin, Sperm, Orca and Grey whales while on the water.
On May 2nd, 2018 Laryssa was recognized by National Geographic editor Michaela Skovranova, who selected her photography of this underwater dolphin from over 3,600 submissions as one of her favorites.
Explore some of Laryssa's most beautiful moments - capturing the impossible
In 2022 Laryssa was recognized by the Pacific Whale Foundation Organization for her photography and was chosen to be in their 2022 calendar. Their mission is to protect the ocean through science and advocacy, and to inspire environmental stewardship.
In addition to her support to the Pacific Whale Foundation, Laryssa has donated several of her whale tail photographs to HappyWhale, a whale research organization that documents the movement of whales around the world and tracks them throughout their lives by identifying their unique tail color and shape. She has identified and added several new whales to their research program