The photograph “Whale Bones” managed to stand out among more than 6,500 photos from around the world. Alex Dawson has been named underwater photographer of the year 2024, for the image of a free diver who captured with his lens the results of whaling.

“I took this photo in the most difficult conditions, as a diver descends under a Greenland ice sheet to witness the carcasses,” said Alex Mustardwho chaired the jury.

“The diver’s suit and lens give it a ‘visiting alien’ feel. The composition flows effortlessly and takes your eye on the right journey to tell the story.”

Every year the competition “Underwater Photographer of the Year” presents stunning photographs of life beneath the surface of the sea. Talented photographers from around the world swim in deep water, do dangerous dives and get up close and personal with sea creatures to capture the perfect shot.

See the photos that stood out:

  • Lisa Stengel

  • Nuno Sá

Underwater photos

  • Jenny Stock

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  • Sandra Stalker

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  • Alvaro Herrero (Mekan)

Underwater photos

  • Shane Gross

Underwater photos

  • Alex Dawson

Underwater photos

  • Geo Cloete

Underwater photos

  • Byron Conory​​​​​​​

Underwater photos

  • Fabi Fregonesi

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  • Rafael Fernandez Caballero

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  • Jasmine Skye Smith

Underwater photos