The Ocean Photographer of the Year competition, co-presented by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain Ocean Commitment, brings together stunning images that highlight the beauty and urgent need for ocean conservation. This annual event invites both amateur and professional photographers worldwide to share their most captivating photographs of marine life, cultural traditions, and environmental efforts.
This year’s submissions offer a mesmerizing array of visuals. From Clayton Harris’s dramatic shot of a breaching humpback whale off the coast of New South Wales, to Andrey Shpatak’s close-up of a giant Pacific octopus in Russian waters, each image tells a powerful story. Merche Llobera’s photo of sardine hunting in Baja California Sur, Mexico, and Laura Leusko’s overhead view of mobula rays in the same region further showcase the incredible diversity of ocean life.
In addition to wildlife, the competition also highlights cultural connections and environmental concerns. Pavlos Evangelidis captures the traditional Sri Lankan stilt fishermen at sunset, offering a glimpse into human interaction with the ocean.
The winners of the Ocean Photographer Competition will be announced on September 12, and the exhibition will open on November 28 at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, traveling to other venues thereafter. For updates and to view the winning images, follow the competition’s website and Instagram.
