A videographer has shared “one of the most intense” animal experiences he’s ever had.
Euan Rannachan is no stranger to close encounters with the ocean’s magnificent creatures, having become known for his shark photography.
But he doesn’t just swim with one powerful fish.
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The 39-year-old recently shared a series of videos online of an “extraordinary” moment he spent with a pod of orcas, which he refers to as “the Queens of the ocean”.
One of the clips shows a killer whale rushing up to the boat at speed.
Another clip shows a pod of orcas enjoying a synchronised dance underwater, with the videographer swimming alongside them.
“You never quite know what you are going to see out on an Ocean Safari,” Euan, who lives in Placerville, just outside Tahoe, told What’s The Jam.
“It’s definitely a bit like a game of rock-paper-scissors.
“You get what you get, and you don’t throw a fit.
“Sometimes Mother Nature wants to show you nothing; other days, she will show you everything.
“The trick, like most things in life, is to just show up and be receptive.
“Or as some photographers say, ‘F8 and be there.’”
While sharks hold a special place in Euan’s heart, he is just as passionate about orcas and describes the chance to swim with them as “an extraordinary moment”.
He said: “while I am team white shark all day long, the minute you are finally in the water with a white shark’s only known natural predator, you immediately understand just how smart these orcas are.
“I must admit I did have a slight hesitation jumping in, already recognizing their intelligence just by the way they surrounded us.”
Describing the recent experience he had in Mexico, Euan added: “The experience was surreal and unlike anything I’ve ever felt.
“The orcas stopped and appeared to be communicating with us in some way.
“It was the first time I was able to look one in the eye and feel it observing me just as I was observing it.
“There were moments when they swam directly at me, and I had to completely surrender to the situation, knowing that even a playful nudge from them could be deadly.
“However, these creatures are incredibly smart and seem to understand that humans aren’t their food source.
“I’ve always been known for my creative work with great white sharks, often calling them the kings of the ocean, which has sparked a lot of debate.
“That belief was certainly on my mind as I slipped into the lukewarm waters of Mexico to be near these orcas.
“The encounter was a powerful reminder of their intelligence, curiosity, and the delicate balance of nature.
“It’s vital to share these experiences to foster a deeper understanding and respect for marine life, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.”
Social media users have been left just as amazed.
“OMG! the feeling must be crazy!!! what an experience mate,” said one person.
“Such incredible experience,” someone else added.
Dean added: “This is brilliant! So happy for you.”
But some viewers were less impressed with the videos.
Barry said: “Don’t understand the need for anyone to get so close to apex predators whether on the land or sea.Anyone who gets attacked or hurt in such circumstances deserves it.”
Someone else added: “Why the need to GET IN WITH THEM? As opposed to enjoying them from above?”
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