The Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 competition has revealed its finalists, showcasing stunning photographs of marine life and human interaction with the ocean. From a rocket-like jellyfish to a majestic Komodo dragon and a hazardous surfing encounter, these photos capture the beauty and fragility of our blue planet.
The winners will be announced in September, but all of the finalists’ photos serve as powerful reminders of the urgent need for protection considering our current climate and biodiversity crisis. Will Harrison,director of Ocean Photographer of the Year,emphasizes that these images are not just beautiful but also important visual testaments to what we stand to lose.
In his statement from the organization, Harrison states that “ocean photography has never been more critically important.” He urges us to take action in protecting our oceans before it’s to late.
Here are some highlights from the competition:
Synchronized swimmers
This stunning photo by finalist Yuka Takahashi captures a pair of synchronized humpback whales in French Polynesia swimming through rays of sunlight. According to Takahashi, these two whales are always seen together and this rare moment of synchronicity reflects their strong bond and playful personalities.
Warm bath
Ocean photographer of the Year: Stunning images of Life Underwater
In this captivating image, captured by finalist and photographer Suliman Alatiqi, a Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) stands tall on an Indonesian shore. These cold-blooded creatures rely on cold water or mud to regulate their body temperature in the summer and often travel across seabeds in search of food and mates.
Collateral Damage
Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn’s powerful image captures fishers unloading their catches at a Bangladeshi harbor during sunrise. This photo is a finalist in the “Impact” category, highlighting the urgent need to protect marine biodiversity as global fish stocks decline.
Stranded

(image credit: Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn/Ocean Photographer of the Year)
Photographer Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn’s image of a stranded whale on a beach is a finalist in the “Human Impact” category. This heartbreaking photo serves as a reminder of the devastating effects humans can have on marine life.
The Ocean Photographer of the Year competition showcases stunning images that capture life underwater and highlight important issues facing our oceans. From majestic creatures to human impact, these photos offer an astonishing glimpse into the beauty and fragility of our marine ecosystems.
Collateral Damage
One of the finalists in the “Human Impact” category, this image by Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn captures fishers unloading their catches at a Bangladeshi harbor during sunrise. Amidst this industrious energy, an endangered species serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect marine biodiversity. As global fish stocks decline,safeguarding threatened species is vital for ecological balance and the long-term sustainability of fishing communities.
Stranded
(Image credit: Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn/Ocean Photographer of the Year)
Photographer Natnattcha Chaturapitamorn’s image of a stranded whale on a beach is a finalist in the ”Human Impact” category. This heartbreaking photo serves as a reminder of the devastating effects humans can have on marine life.
Current State of Our Oceans
The ocean covers over 70% of our planet and is home to an incredible array of life. However, human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change are threatening this delicate ecosystem. according to recent studies, over 90% of large fish populations have been depleted due to fishing practices, and plastic pollution has reached every corner of our oceans.
In addition to these issues, climate change is causing ocean temperatures to rise and sea levels to increase. This not only affects marine life but also has consequences for coastal communities around the world.
The Importance of ocean Conservation
It’s clear that urgent action is needed to protect our oceans and ensure their health for future generations. This includes implementing lasting fishing practices, reducing plastic waste, and addressing climate change through global efforts.
Individual actions can also make a difference in preserving our oceans. Simple steps like reducing single-use plastics, supporting sustainable seafood options, and participating in beach cleanups can all contribute towards protecting marine life.
in summary
The Ocean Photographer of the Year competition not only showcases stunning images but also serves as a reminder of the importance of ocean conservation. By raising awareness and inspiring action, we can work towards a healthier and more sustainable future for our oceans.
Stranded Whale Sparks Community Efforts to Save Marine Life
A recent incident involving a beached humpback whale in Australia has brought attention to the importance of protecting marine life. The heartbreaking scene was captured by photographer Craig Parry, who documented the efforts of rescue teams and community members as they worked tirelessly for 15 hours to save the stranded whale.
The photo, which is a finalist in the “Human Connection” category of Ocean Photographer of the Year, serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. Despite their best efforts, though, the whale could not be saved.
Schools of Fish: A Vibrant Ecosystem
In contrast to this tragic event, another photo from Ocean Photographer of the Year captures an awe-inspiring sight – a school of juvenile fish circling around a tower of coral in Indonesia. The vibrant colors and bustling activity suggest that this ecosystem is still thriving and unaffected by bleaching.
The photographer Kim Hyeon Min explains that this image represents hope for our oceans. In a time when marine ecosystems are rapidly disappearing,it serves as both a reminder and glimpse into what we must protect for future generations.
Otherworldly Jellyfish: A Reminder to Protect Our oceans
Another striking image from Ocean Photographer of the year features an otherworldly jellyfish against an artistic blue and black background. This photo serves as yet another reminder that we must take action to protect our oceans before it’s too late.
The delicate beauty captured in this photo is at risk due to human activities such as pollution and overfishing. It’s up to us to make changes now before these creatures become nothing more than distant memories.
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So incredibly stunning and awe-inspiring! 🐠🌊 #oceanphotography #oceanconservation