The finalists for the 2026 Ocean Photographer of the Year award represent a significant cross-section of marine life and human impact. Thousands of images were submitted to the contest, with judges selecting a shortlist that spans wildlife, fine art, and conservation categories. These entries offer views from underwater, coastal, and drone perspectives.
Among the standout submissions is a photograph capturing two orcas working in tandem to carry a humpback whale calf. Other entries document the life cycle of cardinalfish or the behavior of rays drawn to human activity at a fish market in the Maldives. The competition also features a new category called Ocean Unseen, which focuses on the smallest and least-documented creatures in marine environments.
Founder and director Will Harrison stated that the images serve to reveal stories the planet needs to hear. He emphasized the importance of artists who document the marine world during a time of increasing environmental pressure. The jury evaluated thousands of entries based on artistic quality, technical skill, and narrative impact.
Winners are expected to be announced next month. For now, a curated selection of the finalists is available for viewing. These photographs highlight both the beauty of reef ecosystems and the reality of challenges faced by marine life due to changing conditions in our oceans.