Australian photographer's award-winning ocean book makes waves ahead of Christmas
Announcement posted by Fiona Basile 12 Nov 2026
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA | 12 November 2026
Melbourne photographer, writer and storyteller Fiona Basile is celebrating another international accolade for her latest photographic book, The Next Wave, which has won Silver at the 2026 Budapest International Foto Awards (BIFA) in the Book/Other category.
The award follows Gold at the 2026 Prix de la Photographie Paris (PX3) and an Honourable Mention at the 2026 International Photography Awards (IPA), adding to the book's growing international recognition ahead of Christmas.
A sequel to her internationally award-winning debut book, Immerse (2023), The Next Wave combines breathtaking photographs of Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay with the personal stories of 36 open-water swimmers who have discovered far more than a place to swim. From spectacular sunrises and shimmering reflections to moments of laughter, courage and quiet contemplation, the book celebrates the beauty of the sea and the extraordinary connections formed through a shared love of the water.
"What began as a personal journey into the water has become something so much bigger," Fiona says. "I've witnessed how this wonderful community brings people together from all walks of life. The water is where we gather, but it's the friendships, stories and connections that make it so special."
Fiona began documenting the swimmers during Melbourne's COVID-19 lockdowns in 2021. What followed was an unexpected journey of friendship, discovery and creative inspiration that continues to shape her photography and storytelling today.
A beautiful Australian-made Christmas gift
Designed and printed in Melbourne, The Next Wave is a 144-page hardcover photographic coffee-table book, featuring a soft-touch matte cover, embossed title and beautiful ocean imagery. At $90 AUD, it makes a meaningful Christmas gift for ocean lovers, swimmers, photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates beautiful books and inspiring stories.
The book is available for Christmas gift-guide consideration, editorial features and reviews.
Explore or purchase the book: https://www.fionabasile.com/next-wave
Available for interviews and features
Fiona is available for interviews about the growing popularity of open-water swimming, friendship and community connection, the relationship between water and wellbeing, and the stories behind her internationally recognised photography.
High-resolution photographs, book-cover images and sample spreads are available for editorial use by arrangement. Review enquiries are welcome.
Media contact: Fiona Basile
fiona@fionabasile.com
www.fionabasile.com
Photos by Fiona Basile
