The wonders of the ocean are vast, and the Ocean Art Underwater Photo Contest 2024 offers a glimpse into its hidden beauty. Now in its 13th year, this global competition attracted record participation from over 90 countries, delivering a dazzling array of images. From the hypnotic motion of circling sharks to the delicate moment a male cardinalfish released its newly hatched young, these photos reveal stories rarely seen.
The winners captured breathtaking moments that celebrate marine life’s diversity while emphasizing its fragility. Scroll down to view more winners, then visit the Underwater Photography Guide for the complete gallery of winners and finalists.
White-tip sharks move in synchrony, forming a mesmerizing circular pattern at 25 feet below the surface.
Location: Roca Partida, Revillagigedo, Mexico
Related: Marvel at the Stunning Winners of Ocean Art Awards!
A juvenile batfish reveals its intricate patterns and vibrant hues, illuminated by precise underwater lighting.
Location: Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia
Heavy rains transformed a cenote’s waters into glowing reddish hues, where sunlight created a surreal underwater scene.
Location: Rancho Viejo, Mexico
On a summer night, a male cardinalfish releases a swarm of larvae from its mouth after days of incubation.
Location: Minamisatsuma, Kagoshima, Japan
Related: The Creatures of the Ocean are Every Photographer's Dream
In a rare display of cannibalism, a squid devours a smaller one during a blackwater dive in open waters.
Location: Anilao, Philippines
A Longnose Hawkfish perches on vibrant Black Sun Coral, creating a striking contrast of colors against the reef.
Location: Great Barrier Reef, Australia
A nurse shark rests on the seabed as a patient diver approaches, capturing an intimate view of the predator.
Location: Alimatha, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives
Two Asian Sheepshead Wrasse fight for dominance, with the victorious “Yamato” asserting control over his territory.
Location: Akaiwa Dive Site, Sado, Japan
A whitetip reef shark swims among silverfish, its movements calculated as it circles its next potential prey.
Location: Maya Thila, Maldives
A male cardinalfish aerates his glowing orange eggs, captured at the perfect moment as the brood comes to life.
Location: Atlantis Dumaguete, Philippines
Calm waters and perfect sunlight create an ideal moment to photograph the graceful movement of pilot whales.
Location: Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Related: The Immense Force and Beauty of the Ocean in 11 Images
A striped eel catfish yawns mid-dive, a rare and fleeting moment brought to light with perfect timing.
Location: Anilao, Mabini, Batangas, Philippines
