Adorable seal pup
image wins
UPY 2026
2026’ s Most Promising British Underwater Photographer, Natalie Yarrow
Matty Smith’ s overall winning image,‘ Rockpool Rookies '
AUSTRALIAN PHOTOGRAPHER MATTY Smith has scooped the prestigious Underwater Photographer of the Year( UPY) 2026 title, with his stunning image of a pair of Southern elephant seal pups on the Falkland Islands.
Matty saw off over 7900 entries from 28 countries around the world. His winning‘ split’ image of the seal pair in a rock pool was commended by judge Alex Mustard for its revealing perspective, calling it a“ beautiful and hopeful photograph.”
Meanwhile, Natalie Yarrow has been announced as the winner of the Most Promising British Underwater Photographer 2026 category, with her vibrant macro image of hinge-beak shrimps in Bali.
Commenting on Natalie’ s winning image, UPY 2026 Judge Peter Rowlands said:“ Sometimes you don’ t have to shout to say,‘ Look at me’. You let your image do the talking, and this image made the judges listen and take notice.”
The other two category winners were Sam Blount, who gained the Up & Coming Underwater Photographer of the Year 2026 title, and Khaichuin Sim who was awarded Marine Conservation Photographer of the Year.
Launched back in 1965, the UK-based Underwater Photographer of the Year is one of the world’ s leading annual underwater photography competitions. It aims to celebrate the best photography showcasing the oceans, lakes, rivers, and waterways, and to attract entries from both the UK and around the world. It has 14 categories and four overall award winners.
To view the winners of the UPY 2026, go to www. underwaterphotographeroftheyear. com
Benefit of the Month
Otter
Drysuits
WITH THE START OF THE DIVING season just around the corner, now’ s the time to dust off your kit and think about replacing those items that are past their best. And if this means you’ re considering a new drysuit, then make the most of your member benefits with BSAC Kit Partner, Otter Drysuits.
All current BSAC members can claim an exclusive 10 % off the recommended retail price of two of Otter’ s bestselling membrane drysuits – the Atlantic and the Britannic MK2 Telescopic. You can check out the drysuits at www. otterwatersports. uk
Both suits are made-to-measure, available in a range of colours and are hardwearing, smart and designed for comfort. Plus, you have the reassurance of Otter’ s 30-plus years in the diving industry and their reputation for customer service.
Otter’ s 10 % discount is available exclusively to BSAC UK and overseas members, with no minimum age. To claim your discount, you will need your membership number, which you must submit via the online Made to Measure form at checkout.
Get ready for the 2026 diving season- for more information on how to claim Otter’ s 10 % discount for members, go to bsac. com / kitpartners
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