The annual Underwater Photographer of the Year (UPY) competition showcases the breathtaking beauty and diversity of the underwater world, capturing moments that few of us ever get to see. The 2026 competition saw a stunning array of images, with Matthew Smith taking home the top prize for his captivating shot of two young sea lions in the Falkland Islands.
Other winning images included Natalie Yarrow’s mesmerizing capture of hinge-beak shrimp inside a pink barrel sponge, Khaichuin Sim’s powerful depiction of the controversial annual whale hunt in the Faroe Islands, and Sam Blount’s dramatic encounter with a leopard seal.
UPY features a range of categories, from portraits to coral reefs to macro photography, highlighting the fragile ecosystems and incredible biodiversity that exist beneath the surface of the ocean. The winning images offer a glimpse into this hidden world, showcasing the beauty and vulnerability of marine life.
From close-up shots of fish guarding their eggs to colorful coral reefs teeming with life, the images in the UPY competition are a testament to the wonders of the underwater world. Each photograph tells a story, capturing a moment in time that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
To see more of the winning images from the 2026 UPY competition, visit their website and follow them on Instagram. And if these stories and artists matter to you, consider becoming a Colossal Member to support independent arts publishing and enjoy exclusive benefits like ad-free browsing, discounts in the Colossal Shop, and a members-only newsletter.
