Will Harrison Announces Finalists for the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 Competition
Will Harrison, the founder and director of Ocean Photographer of the Year, announced the finalists for the 2026 competition, showcasing a diverse collection of images that highlight marine biodiversity and the urgent need for ocean conservation. The finalists include striking wildlife moments, such as orcas working together to carry a humpback whale calf and Hawaiian green sea turtles recovering in a Maui sea cave. New for 2026, the 'Ocean Unseen: Hidden Worlds' category focuses on the smallest and least visible inhabitants of the sea, from microscopic life forms to delicate invertebrates. Other categories explore the human connection to the ocean, featuring images of freedivers, surfers, and traditional fishing communities. The competition also addresses conservation challenges, documenting the impact of pollution, overfishing, and traditional hunting practices like the Faroe Islands' grindadrĂ¡p. Harrison stated that the photographs serve as a platform to surface the stories the planet needs to hear as pressures on the ocean grow. Winners will be announced in September.