Winners of the Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024: photos
The Underwater Photographer of the Year competition celebrates photography beneath the surface of the ocean, lakes, rivers and even swimming pools, attracting entries from all around the world. There are 13 categories, including Macro, Wide Angle, Behaviour and Wreck photography, as well as 4 categories for photos taken specifically in British waters. The winners were announced in an award ceremony in Mayfair, London, hosted by The Crown Estate. This year's UPY judges were experienced underwater photographers Peter Rowlands, Tobias Friedrich and Dr Alexander Mustard MBE.
Alex Dawson - Wide Angle Category Winner
Alex Dawson's winning photo captures a scene in eastern Greenland where local hunters bring their catch and share it among each other. This photo highlights the interaction between the hunters and the minke whale, with the skeleton of the whale being pulled back into the sea. The image showcases the consumption of almost all parts of the whale by the community.
Dawson's photo is a powerful representation of the relationship between humans and marine life in this region, highlighting the sustainable practices of the hunters and their reliance on the ocean for their livelihood.
Suliman Alatiqi - Portrait Category
Suliman Alatiqi's photo captures the behavior of crab-eating macaques in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand. The photo offers a rare glimpse of a male macaque swimming, showcasing their adaptability to the water. Alatiqi's photo beautifully captures the movement and agility of the macaque, displaying their swimming skills.
This photo sheds light on the unique behaviors of these macaques, showcasing their ability to venture into the water for various reasons. Alatiqi's photo highlights the importance of documenting and understanding animal behavior in their natural habitats.
Becky Kagan Schott - Wrecks Category Runner Up
Becky Kagan Schott's photo captures the wreck of the Kyle Spangler in the Great Lakes. After years of attempting to capture this shot, Schott finally achieved the perfect conditions to showcase the ghostly image of the wooden schooner. The photo showcases the eerie beauty of the underwater wreck and the challenges faced by photographers in capturing the perfect shot.
Schott's photo serves as a reminder of the rich history and hidden treasures that lie beneath the surface of the water. The photo highlights the skill and dedication required by underwater photographers to capture these incredible moments.
