SCUBA presents a selection of images from the latest Underwater Photographer of the Year( UPY) contest, and the stories behind the pictures
UPYCOMPETITION
Ocean art: Underwater Photographer of the Year 2025
SCUBA presents a selection of images from the latest Underwater Photographer of the Year( UPY) contest, and the stories behind the pictures
ALVARO HERRERO( MEKAN)/ UPY 2025
Q Radiant Bond
Winner: Underwater Photographer of the Year Photographer: Alvaro Herrero, Spain Location: Moorea, French Polynesia
A mother humpback whale accompanies her calf to the surface for its first breath early in the morning. The youngster is releasing a few bubbles as it rises, perhaps this is because it is still learning to control its breathing, or it is simply experimenting with its own body.
Every year, during the southern winter, I travel to French Polynesia to photograph these majestic animals. My favourite time of day is the early morning, because the light is soft and angled, allowing me to find the perfect angle to clearly define the shape of these animals in blue.
Q The Curious Seal
Winner: British Waters Wide Angle Photographer: David Alpert Location: Lundy Island
This shot shows a grey seal off Lundy Island, a marine protected area since 1973. Seals are delightfully curious creatures, more interactive than any other species I have dived with around the world. Briefly, I become one of the privileged few, crossing the bridge into the world of a sentient wild animal
DAVID ALPERT / UPY 2025
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