A striking image of two southern elephant seal pups playing in a rock pool in the Falkland Islands has won the overall title in the Underwater Photographer of the Year 2026 contest. Australian photographer Matty Smith’s portrait, titled Rockpool Rookies, triumphed over more than 7,900 entries, capturing the playful young seals learning to swim shortly after being weaned. Judges praised the split-level perspective and highlighted the broader story of the species’ recovery after being hunted nearly to extinction for their oil-rich blubber.

The annual competition, based in Britain, celebrates photography taken beneath oceans, lakes, rivers and even swimming pools, with 14 categories spanning themes such as wide angle, macro, behaviour and wreck photography. Among the other winners was Cecile Gabillon Barats of France, recognised in the wide angle category for her close encounter with a playful sperm whale calf in Dominica.

Additional standout images included a tiny commensal shrimp perched on a vibrant sea star in Australia, a carefully staged exploration of the wreck of the Japanese battleship Nagato in Bikini Atoll, and a dramatic moment of clownfish eggs hatching under parental watch. Photographers also captured coral spawning in the northern Red Sea, a leopard seal charging toward the camera in Antarctica, and rare gatherings of large sharks off Scotland.

The competition further highlighted marine conservation, including a poignant photograph of a rescued sea turtle being prepared for release in Italy. Judges commended the overall quality and diversity of this year’s entries, showcasing both the beauty of underwater life and the importance of protecting fragile marine ecosystems.