The winners of the 2024 Underwater Photographer of the Year competition have been announced, offering a captivating glimpse into the hidden wonders beneath the waves. With over 6,500 entries from around the world, the competition showcases the remarkable talent and creativity of underwater photographers.
One of the standout images that captured the attention of the judging panel is “Whale Bones” by Alex Dawson, who has been crowned the Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024. This striking photograph depicts a free diver descending below the Greenland ice sheet to witness the aftermath of whaling. The haunting image not only showcases the toughness of the conditions but also provides a poignant and thought-provoking commentary on the impact of whaling. “Whale Bones” stood out for its composition, effortlessly guiding the viewer on a journey that tells a powerful story, as described by Alex Mustard, the chair of the judging panel.
The competition features 13 categories, ranging from Macro and Wide Angle to Behaviour and Wreck photography, offering a diverse and comprehensive view of the underwater world. The images capture a wide range of scenes, from a diver among a graveyard of whale skeletons to a sunken helicopter and even kissing carp. The “Wrecks” category, in particular, sheds light on the fascination with submerged shipwrecks, military hardware, and other relics that lie on the ocean floor. These photographs offer a glimpse into history as military cargo, ships’ wheels, and even passenger airline seats remain eerily intact in their underwater resting places. Some come from Jordan’s underwater military museum, while others carry chilling stories of wars and tragic accidents.
The winning photographs not only showcase the stunning beauty of the underwater world but also serve as a reminder of the fragility and significance of these submerged landscapes. Each image tells a unique story, capturing moments that would otherwise remain hidden beneath the waves.
The Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 competition highlights the extraordinary talent and dedication of underwater photographers, offering a platform to celebrate their creativity and passion for capturing the mesmerizing beauty that lies beneath the surface. As we immerse ourselves in these remarkable images, we are transported to a world that is both captivating and humbling, where the depths of the ocean reveal treasures and stories waiting to be unveiled.
