Stunning and eerie photographs captured in the Ocean Photographer of the Year contest
In a celebration of the ocean's fragility, diversity, and extraordinary power to inspire, Yury Ivanov has been crowned the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025. His winning image, titled "Ladybugs of the Sea," showcases an intimate glimpse of underwater life that is often overlooked.
The photograph, taken at Ivanov's local dive site in Bali, Indonesia, depicts two amphipods, each standing at three millimeters tall, resting on a piece of coral. The image required patience and precision to compose and light properly, reflecting Ivanov's dedication to his craft.
The Ocean Photographer of the Year competition, organised by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, attracted over 15,000 entries this year. Nine category winners were also selected, showcasing a diverse range of underwater scenes. These include a shot of a personal watercraft navigating huge waves at Nazaré surf spot in Portugal, an image of a long-finned pilot whale foetus under its dead mother's body during whale hunting season in the Faroe Islands, and a photo of a female yellow pygmy goby fish releasing larvae from her mouth.
Winning the competition is an incredible feeling for Ivanov. "The Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition is committed to reporting on the environmental challenges facing our planet," he said. "I am honoured to contribute to this important cause with my work."
Will Harrison, director of Ocean Photographer of the Year, stated that the winning photographs serve as a bridge, connecting people to the ocean in ways words cannot. "In a time of planetary urgency, the photographers invite the world to see, feel, and ultimately care," he added. "Our work is critical because we protect what we understand."
The winning photographs will be part of an Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition, which will first be displayed at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney from November 6. The exhibition is a part of a partnership between CNN and Rolex's Perpetual Planet Initiative to drive awareness and education around key sustainability issues and inspire positive action.
The Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 award is more than just a title for Ivanov. It's a testament to his commitment to capturing the beauty and fragility of the underwater world, and a call to action for everyone to protect and preserve our oceans for future generations.
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