Vibrant Sea Creatures Triumph in 2025 Ocean Photographer of the Year Competition
A vibrant macro image featuring two minute “ladybugs of the sea” earned Bali-based photographer Yury Ivanov the title of Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025. The competition, hosted by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, consistently offers a charming view of various perspectives on the ocean, and Ivanov’s achievement showcases the vast wonders it holds.
Captured at a diving location in Bali, the photo triumphed over 15,000 other submissions. Ivanov, an acclaimed photographer and marine life specialist, expressed his delight at his achievement and its meaning. “Securing the title of Ocean Photographer of the Year is an amazing sensation; I’m profoundly thankful for the recognition,” he states. “This accolade embodies more than one photo; it honors the ocean itself—its vulnerability, its richness, and its remarkable ability to motivate us.”
Jialing Cai, who was crowned the 2023 Ocean Photographer of the Year, also celebrated significant recognition this year. The Chinese photographer received the Female Fifty Fathoms award, honoring women who lead the way in ocean photography. This prestigious accolade required Cai to receive nominations from her colleagues and marks an important milestone.
Overall, the main and category victors merit respect for their skill in portraying the sea. The positives and negatives, shown by gravity-defying surfers and sharks ensnared in fishing gear, demand our focus, a reality the competition’s organizers are keenly aware of.
“The recipients of this year’s Ocean Photographer of the Year remind us that photography transcends art—it serves as a conduit. Their visuals connect individuals to the ocean in ways that words cannot, reaching those who may never plunge into it or glide across its surface, yet whose existence is profoundly linked to it. In this era of global urgency, this year’s photographers urge the world to observe, feel, and ultimately be concerned. Their creations are vital because we safeguard what we comprehend,” remarks Will Harrison, director of Ocean Photographer of the Year.
The esteemed underwater photography contest, Ocean Photographer of the Year, has recently unveiled its 2025 honorees. More than 15,000 images were submitted for this annual photographic competition.
Oceanographic Magazine: [Website](https://oceanographicmagazine.com/) | [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Oceanographicmag/) | [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/oceanographic_mag/)
My Modern Met has received permission to showcase photos by Ocean Photographer of the Year.
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