UPDATE: The winners of the 2025 Ocean Photographer of the Year awards have just been announced, showcasing breathtaking images that highlight both the beauty and fragility of our oceans. Amongst the stunning entries, Brazilian photographer Marcia Riederer took first place in the fine art category with a captivating photo of a dwarf minke whale near the Great Barrier Reef, captured just moments before the whale turned to gaze directly at her.
“This experience reaffirms the urgent need to conserve our oceans,” Riederer said, emphasizing the playful curiosity of these majestic creatures. The competition, organized by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, aims to raise awareness about marine conservation through powerful imagery.
**Other notable winners include:**
Wildlife Photographer of the Year: Takumi Oyama from Japan, who documented a female yellow pygmy goby releasing larvae—a rare glimpse into the nurturing habits of this vibrant species.
Adventure Photographer of the Year: Ben Thouard, who captured a dramatic shot of massive waves at Nazaré, Portugal. “It was challenging due to the conditions, but the light was extraordinary,” Thouard stated.
Conservation (Impact) Photographer of the Year: Hugo Bret, who highlighted the tragic impact of the traditional grindadráp whaling practice in the Faroe Islands. His powerful image of a pilot whale fetus underscores the urgent discussions surrounding marine conservation.
Conservation (Hope) Photographer of the Year: Sirachai Arunrugstichai from Thailand shared a hopeful image of an Indo-Pacific leopard shark embryo, showcasing efforts to breed the endangered species at Aquaria Phuket.
Human Connection Award: Craig Parry documented a heart-wrenching rescue attempt of a beached humpback whale in New South Wales, Australia. “Sadly, she could not be saved, but the community’s effort was a powerful reminder of shared purpose,” Parry remarked.
**Young Photographer of the Year:** Aaron Sanders, who captured a mesmerizing image of mating bobtail squid, revealing the vibrant colors and intricate behaviors of marine life.
**Ocean Portfolio Award:** Matthew Sullivan, who focused on the nurturing habits of mouthbrooding jawfish, showcasing the protective nature of these fish during breeding.
**Female Fifty Fathoms Award:** Jialing Cai presented an intriguing photo of a fish utilizing a jellyfish for chemical defense, highlighting the innovative survival strategies in the ocean.
**Ocean Photographer of the Year:** The prestigious title went to Yury Ivanov for his intimate portrayal of two amphipods, emphasizing the often-overlooked beauty of marine biodiversity. “It took six dives to capture this shot, requiring patience and precision,” Ivanov shared.
These remarkable images not only celebrate ocean life but also serve as a call to action for conservation efforts worldwide. As the competition continues to inspire photographers and enthusiasts alike, the urgent message remains clear: protecting our oceans is a shared responsibility.
For more stunning visuals and insights into this year’s awards, viewers are encouraged to explore the winning entries and reflect on the ongoing challenges facing our marine ecosystems.
