Winners of Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026

The Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 competition has revealed its winners, showcasing the most breathtaking and impactful images of marine life from around the world.

First place honors went to Lin Yongxuan for his powerful image of a Hawaiian monk seal resting with her week-old pup on Kaimana Beach in Waikīkī. The photographer captures the intimate bond between mother and calf, highlighting the significance of conservation efforts in protecting these vulnerable species.

In second place, James Ferrara won for his captivating shot of a New Zealand fur seal tearing apart a rough skate, providing food for nearby seabirds. The image showcases the complex interdependence of marine life, even in situations where larger prey must be broken down for smaller creatures.

James Ferrara's second-place image highlights the intricate relationship between marine animals, where larger predators must break down their food to share with others in the ecosystem.

Third place was awarded to Gergo Rugli for an up-close look at a ladybug amphipod, only 3 millimeters long, resting on a blue sea squirt in the coral reefs of Komodo, Indonesia. The photographer's ability to capture such a tiny creature among the vibrant coral reef demonstrates the richness of marine biodiversity.

Romain Barats took home the Conservation Impact award for his photograph of three gentoo penguins standing beside the remains of the former Hektor whaling station in Antarctica. The stark contrast between the penguins and the decaying industrial structures serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment.

Ajiex Dharma placed fourth with a fine art image of a hinge-back cleaning shrimp resting against a pink barrel sponge in Bali, Indonesia. The photographer's skillful composition and focus on the shrimp's eyes create a sense of intimacy and wonder, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty of even the smallest marine organisms.

The Conservation Hope award went to Leighton Lum for his remarkable photograph of a great hammerhead shark, known as Tamataroa in French Polynesia. The image was captured at 55 meters depth in Tiputa Pass, Rangiroa Atoll, during a population survey. This shot represents the moment an anonymous shark becomes a known individual, allowing scientists to track and monitor shark populations for conservation efforts.