Underwater photography is an incredible art form that captures the magic of life beneath the surface. Whether it's taken in the deep oceans or within the controlled environment of a swimming pool, underwater photography allows us to glimpse into a world that’s hidden from most of us. However, the challenges of capturing compelling underwater shots are immense, as it requires specialized equipment, technical skills, and a deep understanding of the environment under the water.
The underwater photographers on this list not only overcome these challenges but are reshaping the field with their creativity, innovative techniques, and commitment to marine conservation. Here, we explore 17 of the most influential underwater photographers to follow in 2025.
Who Are the Leading Underwater Photographers?
The world of underwater photography is as diverse as it is stunning, with different photographers offering unique perspectives on marine life and the underwater environment. These photographers contribute not only to the beauty of the art form but also to raising awareness about the importance of ocean conservation and the need to protect marine ecosystems.
1. Thomas P. Peschak
Thomas P. Peschak is a highly influential wildlife photographer and conservationist whose work has made a significant impact on how the world views marine life. With his affiliation with National Geographic, Peschak’s photographs have captured the splendor and fragility of the ocean’s wildlife. His images go beyond mere beauty—they tell compelling stories about the ecosystems that are rapidly vanishing due to human activities.
Known for his immersive approach, Peschak’s photography focuses on creatures that often go unnoticed or misunderstood. From the towering sharks to the smallest, most delicate marine organisms, he has dedicated his career to revealing the diversity and importance of marine life. However, his work also highlights the devastation that these ecosystems are facing. Climate change, overfishing, and pollution are recurring themes in his portfolio. The striking contrast between the thriving marine species and the destruction they face creates an emotional connection with viewers, urging them to take action to protect these delicate environments.
In addition to his photographic achievements, Peschak is a founding member of the Manta Trust, a global organization working to protect manta rays and other oceanic creatures. Through this work, he advocates for sustainable ocean practices and works to raise awareness about the dire state of the oceans. His photographs serve as visual calls to action, urging the public and policymakers to consider the long-term health of our oceans.
Peschak’s work is celebrated for its emotional resonance. His ability to capture not just the creatures of the ocean but their environment—the light, the water, the movement—creates a profound connection between the viewer and the ocean. His photography goes beyond the lens, touching on themes of responsibility, ecological awareness, and the urgent need for conservation. By making the viewer feel the beauty and the loss of the oceans, he compels them to reflect on their relationship with the natural world and inspires a sense of duty to protect it for future generations.
2. Brian Skerry
Brian Skerry is another name that has become synonymous with underwater photography. As an award-winning photojournalist and conservationist, Skerry has spent more than three decades documenting marine life, capturing some of the most iconic underwater portraits in the process. Specializing in whales, sharks, and seals, his photos are often intimate, giving the viewer a glimpse into the private lives of marine creatures that are typically out of reach. His work is a testament to the patience and skill required to photograph these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Skerry’s ability to capture the true essence of marine creatures has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. His close-up portraits of whales, in particular, have become some of the most recognizable and evocative images in marine photography. These portraits often reveal the deep emotional lives of animals that are rarely understood by the public. By focusing on the expression and behavior of these creatures, Skerry has been able to humanize them, making them more relatable to a broader audience.
One of the key aspects of Skerry's work is his commitment to conservation. His photographs are not only beautiful but also serve a higher purpose: to shed light on the environmental challenges marine life faces. Skerry has witnessed firsthand the effects of climate change, overfishing, and pollution on marine ecosystems, and he has used his platform to bring attention to these issues. His work aims to educate viewers about the importance of preserving marine life and to encourage action toward ocean conservation.
Skerry’s contributions to conservation go beyond his photography. He has worked with organizations like National Geographic to create impactful media campaigns that educate the public and promote positive change. His photographs have helped shape the public’s understanding of the ocean and its creatures, and they continue to inspire a new generation of photographers, environmentalists, and ocean advocates.
Skerry’s approach to underwater photography is grounded in both art and science. He spends countless hours in the water, learning about his subjects and immersing himself in their world. This deep understanding of marine life allows him to capture their behavior and personalities in ways that many other photographers cannot. His work showcases the beauty and complexity of the ocean, and his commitment to conservation is evident in every image.
3. Juan Oliphant
Juan Oliphant is a passionate underwater photographer whose work focuses on sharks and other marine life. His journey into underwater photography began with a love for surfing, but over time, he transitioned to diving, ultimately finding his niche in the underwater world. Oliphant is a conservationist at heart, and his work revolves around raising awareness about the importance of protecting sharks, which are often misunderstood and feared by the public.
Sharks are a central theme in Oliphant's photography, and through his lens, he showcases their beauty, grace, and majesty. By capturing these creatures in their natural environment, he aims to change the narrative surrounding sharks and highlight their crucial role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Oliphant’s photographs are not just about capturing stunning visuals; they are about sparking a change in perception. His work challenges the negative stereotypes often associated with sharks and encourages people to see them as essential, misunderstood creatures that need protection rather than fear.
In addition to his stunning photography, Oliphant also uses his platform to promote ocean conservation. He has worked with organizations that focus on shark protection and marine advocacy, and he strives to educate the public about the importance of preserving marine habitats. His photos are a reminder of what we stand to lose if we don’t take action—once-thriving ecosystems teeming with life are disappearing at an alarming rate, and Oliphant’s work encourages viewers to rethink their relationship with the ocean and the creatures that inhabit it.
Oliphant’s work is unique in that it invites viewers into the world of sharks, showing them not as fearsome predators but as magnificent, vulnerable creatures that need our help. His underwater photography brings out the beauty of the ocean, making it accessible to those who may never get the chance to experience it firsthand. Oliphant’s images are both powerful and thought-provoking, inviting the viewer to connect with the ocean and its inhabitants in a way that only photography can achieve.
4. David Doubilet
David Doubilet is a world-renowned underwater photographer whose extensive career has revolutionized how we view marine life. His work spans several decades and is characterized by groundbreaking techniques that have changed the landscape of underwater photography. As a National Geographic photographer, Doubilet’s stunning imagery has graced the pages of countless magazines and brought attention to the urgent need for ocean conservation. His photographs are a testament to both the technical and creative aspects of capturing the intricate world beneath the surface.
What sets Doubilet apart from many underwater photographers is his unparalleled ability to play with light. He has mastered the technique of using ambient light in his shots, allowing natural sunlight to penetrate the water’s surface, enhancing the beauty and drama of his subjects. His work often features a range of marine species, from the smallest creatures to the largest, providing a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems that thrive in the oceans. Whether photographing the playful movements of a school of fish or the haunting beauty of coral reefs, Doubilet brings the ocean to life in ways that most photographers can only dream of.
His innovative approach goes beyond capturing the beauty of the marine world; it seeks to highlight the delicate balance of life that exists beneath the waves. Through his images, Doubilet emphasizes the interconnectedness of all marine creatures and their habitats, often using his photos to highlight the environmental issues facing the oceans. From coral bleaching to the decimation of marine species due to overfishing, Doubilet’s work not only celebrates marine life but also serves as a call to action for ocean conservation.
Doubilet’s dedication to his craft is evident in the careful planning and technical expertise that goes into each photograph. He often spends weeks or months in specific locations, waiting for the perfect shot. This level of patience and commitment allows him to capture once-in-a-lifetime moments that reveal the hidden beauty of the underwater world. His work is not just about capturing a single moment; it’s about telling the stories of the oceans and the creatures that inhabit them. Each photograph is a narrative, a glimpse into the world that so few of us will ever see up close.
Over the years, Doubilet has received numerous awards for his work, including several from the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. His portfolio is vast and varied, from intimate portraits of marine life to sweeping shots of underwater landscapes. But at the core of all his work is a passion for the oceans and a desire to inspire others to protect them. By capturing the beauty of the underwater world, Doubilet aims to raise awareness about the threats facing marine life, urging us all to take action to preserve these fragile ecosystems.
David Doubilet’s work is not just photography; it is an exploration of the underwater world, a celebration of its beauty, and a reminder of our responsibility to protect it for future generations. His photos inspire awe, wonder, and a deep appreciation for the marine world, urging us to take a closer look at the world beneath the surface and the creatures that call it home.
5. Elena Kalis
Elena Kalis is a distinguished underwater photographer whose work has captivated audiences worldwide with its ethereal beauty and graceful portrayal of human movement in the water. Based in the Bahamas, Kalis's photographs are deeply rooted in her passion for marine conservation and her connection to the natural environment. She is known for her stunning underwater portraits, which feature models, gymnasts, and dancers submerged in the ocean’s embrace. Kalis’s work explores the delicate relationship between humanity and nature, emphasizing the harmony between the human form and the natural world.
Kalis’s approach to underwater photography is unique in that it blends human artistry with the raw, unspoiled beauty of the ocean. Her images often feature the fluid, elegant movements of her subjects, captured in stunning clarity as they interact with the water. The result is a serene and dreamlike atmosphere that transports viewers into an underwater world where the boundaries between the natural and human worlds dissolve. Kalis’s ability to use water as both a medium and a canvas allows her to create images that evoke a sense of weightlessness and grace, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
In addition to her artistic talent, Kalis is deeply committed to marine conservation. She uses her platform to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the delicate marine ecosystems in the Bahamas, where coral reefs and marine life are increasingly at risk due to climate change, overfishing, and human activity. Kalis’s work emphasizes the beauty of these fragile environments, highlighting the need for protection and sustainable practices. Her photographs often feature the vibrant colors of coral reefs, the gentle flow of sea grass, and the diverse marine species that inhabit the waters, serving as a reminder of the ocean’s immense value and the urgent need to safeguard it.
Kalis’s work has garnered widespread recognition for its beauty and the powerful messages it conveys. Her photographs are not just about capturing a moment in time; they are about telling a story. Whether showcasing the strength and grace of a gymnast submerged in the ocean or the tranquil movement of a model floating among the coral, Kalis’s images evoke emotions and invite viewers to connect with the natural world on a deeper level. Through her lens, she captures the delicate balance between humanity and the environment, encouraging others to recognize the importance of preserving the oceans and the life that depends on them.
Her influence extends beyond photography, as she uses her art to advocate for marine conservation. Kalis is a vocal supporter of the Bahamas National Trust and works tirelessly to promote sustainable practices in the region. Her images are a call to action, reminding us that the ocean is not just a beautiful backdrop but a vital part of our planet that requires our protection. Through her work, Kalis continues to inspire audiences to appreciate the ocean’s beauty and take steps to ensure its future.
6. Shawn Heinrichs
Shawn Heinrichs is an Emmy Award-winning cinematographer, photographer, and environmental advocate whose underwater photography has had a profound impact on ocean conservation. Known for his striking and innovative imagery, Heinrichs has dedicated his career to capturing the wonders of the ocean while raising awareness about the pressing environmental issues facing marine life. His photographs often feature endangered species, such as sharks, rays, and sea turtles, and serve as powerful visual stories that highlight the importance of protecting these creatures and their habitats.
Heinrichs’s unique approach to underwater photography sets him apart from others in the field. His use of light is one of his most notable strengths, as he skillfully manipulates both natural and artificial light to create dramatic and captivating images. Whether he’s photographing a lone shark gliding through the deep or capturing a vibrant coral reef, Heinrichs’s images are filled with depth, texture, and emotion. His ability to convey the beauty and vulnerability of marine life through his use of light has made him one of the most sought-after photographers in the world.
In addition to his technical skill, Heinrichs is a passionate advocate for ocean conservation. He has dedicated much of his life to fighting for the protection of marine species and their habitats. Heinrichs’s photographs often focus on the threats that these creatures face, from overfishing and habitat destruction to the devastating effects of climate change. His work has helped to bring attention to the plight of sharks, manta rays, and other endangered species, pushing for greater efforts to protect these animals from extinction.
One of the most impactful aspects of Heinrichs’s work is his ability to use photography as a tool for change. Through his stunning images, he captures the beauty of the ocean and its creatures, but he also conveys a sense of urgency. His photographs are not just about capturing a moment in time—they are a call to action. Heinrichs believes that in order to protect the oceans, people must first fall in love with them. Through his work, he hopes to inspire a new generation of ocean advocates who will fight for the protection of marine life.
Heinrichs is also the founder of the non-profit organization Sharks4Kids, which aims to educate young people about sharks and the importance of ocean conservation. His commitment to environmental education and his dedication to using photography as a means of advocacy make him one of the most influential figures in the field of underwater photography today. Through his work, Heinrichs continues to inspire others to take action, helping to shape a future where the oceans and the creatures that inhabit them are protected and preserved for generations to come.
7. Craig Parry
Craig Parry is a self-taught photographer from Australia, who has made a significant mark in the fields of oceanic and nature photography. His work emphasizes the powerful connection between humans and the natural world, often focusing on the intricate details of marine life and landscapes. Parry’s photographs are not just snapshots—they are invitations for viewers to dive deeper into the beauty and fragility of the planet’s oceans.
One of the hallmarks of Parry’s work is his ability to convey the essence of marine environments in ways that few other photographers can. Whether he is capturing the stunning movement of dolphins, the majestic flow of the ocean, or the rich biodiversity of coral reefs, his images create a visceral experience that transports viewers into the heart of the ocean. His underwater photography often showcases both the raw power and the delicate beauty of the natural world, reminding us of the importance of conservation.
As a conservationist, Parry’s photography is not just about aesthetics; it’s about raising awareness. He uses his platform to educate the public about the ocean’s biodiversity, the threats it faces, and the urgent need for protection. His work encourages people to reflect on the impact of human activity on marine life and to understand the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. The visual appeal of his photographs is matched only by the powerful conservation messages they carry.
Parry's photography has garnered attention for its ability to capture the deep emotional connection between humans and the ocean. His images often feature interactions between people and marine animals, reinforcing the idea that we are not separate from nature but are intricately tied to it. This storytelling element is central to his work, as he captures moments that evoke awe and inspire action. Through his lens, Parry invites us to experience the wonders of the ocean and feel the responsibility we all share in preserving it for future generations.
Through his stunning underwater photography and commitment to marine conservation, Craig Parry’s work continues to be a source of inspiration for both photographers and environmental advocates alike. His dedication to the ocean and its ecosystems is evident in every image, and his ability to capture the hidden beauty beneath the waves encourages others to appreciate the fragility of the natural world and take action to protect it.
8. Seth Casteel
Seth Casteel is a photographer whose name has become synonymous with underwater dog portraits. Casteel’s unique approach to underwater photography has captivated audiences around the world, offering a fresh and playful take on pet photography. His images capture dogs diving underwater with joyful abandon, showcasing their energy, enthusiasm, and affection in a completely unexpected environment. The resulting photographs are both heartwarming and humorous, creating an emotional connection with viewers.
Casteel’s underwater dog photography has become a viral sensation, bringing smiles to people’s faces and sparking a movement in animal photography. His images have been widely shared across social media platforms, and his books have become bestsellers, reaching pet lovers globally. But Casteel’s photography is not just about creating adorable images; it is also a platform for a larger cause—raising awareness for animal adoption. Through his work, Casteel highlights the importance of rescuing dogs and giving them loving homes, using his photographs to inspire people to consider adopting pets from shelters.
One of the defining features of Casteel’s photography is his ability to capture the essence of each dog’s personality. The playful expressions, the joy of swimming, and the connection between the dog and their human companions are all elements that come to life in his underwater portraits. These moments are not just visually appealing; they tell stories about the bond between humans and animals, and the joy that comes from being in each other’s company.
While Casteel is best known for his underwater dog portraits, his work spans beyond this niche. He has also taken photographs of other animals, incorporating his signature playful style into a variety of animal photography projects. Through his work, Casteel continues to break new ground in the world of pet photography, showing that animals, like humans, can express emotion, personality, and individuality in ways that resonate deeply with audiences.
Casteel’s contributions to the world of underwater photography go beyond his captivating images of dogs. By using his platform to advocate for animal welfare, he encourages people to take action and make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Through his work, Seth Casteel has successfully merged art and advocacy, creating photographs that are both visually striking and socially impactful.
9. Jason Washington
Jason Washington is a photographer whose passion for the ocean extends beyond simply capturing its beauty. A diver and explorer, Washington is particularly drawn to the mysteries of the underwater world, particularly shipwrecks. His images offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the forgotten remnants of human history that lie beneath the waves, often juxtaposed with vibrant marine life that has taken root in these submerged structures. Through his lens, Washington blends the allure of underwater landscapes with the stories that shipwrecks tell about human interaction with the sea.
Washington’s work often focuses on the way marine life has adapted to human-made structures, showcasing the resilience of nature in the face of destruction. Shipwrecks, once symbols of human failure or loss, have become new habitats for fish, corals, and other marine creatures, illustrating the ocean’s ability to regenerate and find beauty in the most unexpected places. His photographs capture the eerie juxtaposition of rusted metal and thriving ecosystems, offering a powerful metaphor for both the fragility and resilience of life on Earth.
What sets Washington’s work apart is his ability to convey the emotional weight of underwater shipwrecks. Each image tells a story, evoking a sense of mystery, wonder, and sometimes sadness. The stillness of the wrecks is juxtaposed with the fluidity and movement of the ocean, creating a dynamic tension between past and present. Washington’s photographs invite viewers to reflect on the human impact on the ocean and its ecosystems while also celebrating the diversity and richness of marine life.
In addition to his underwater photography, Washington’s work as a storyteller extends to his role as a guide and educator. He leads dives to undiscovered underwater locations, encouraging others to explore the mysteries of the ocean while also fostering an appreciation for marine conservation. His work not only captures the beauty of the ocean but also invites viewers to become part of the conversation about protecting these precious ecosystems.
Jason Washington’s work in underwater photography bridges the worlds of history, exploration, and environmental awareness. His hauntingly beautiful images remind us of the complexities of our relationship with the sea and the need to preserve its fragile ecosystems for future generations.
10. Jennifer Hayes
Jennifer Hayes is an aquatic biologist and National Geographic contributing photographer whose work spans the world’s oceans, showcasing the remarkable diversity of marine life and ecosystems. With a deep understanding of marine biology, Hayes brings a scientific approach to her photography, capturing moments that reveal the behavior and complexity of ocean creatures. Her work often focuses on rare species and previously undocumented behaviors, shedding light on the mysteries of the underwater world.
Hayes’s photography goes beyond just capturing stunning images—it’s about telling the story of the ocean and its inhabitants. As a scientist and photographer, she has the unique ability to combine art with education. Her images provide a glimpse into the life of species that few people have the privilege to see firsthand, from the intricate courtship rituals of marine animals to the daily survival struggles of creatures living in the deep sea. Through her lens, viewers gain a greater appreciation for the complexity of life in the ocean and the need for its conservation.
A key focus of Hayes’s work is marine conservation, and she uses her platform to advocate for the protection of vulnerable species and ecosystems. Many of her photographs highlight the threats that marine life faces, such as habitat destruction, climate change, and overfishing. By documenting the beauty of marine life in peril, Hayes helps to raise awareness about the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Hayes’s scientific background gives her a unique perspective on underwater photography, and her images are informed by years of research and fieldwork. Her photographs are not only visually striking but also scientifically valuable, providing insight into the behavior and biology of marine species. In addition to her work as a photographer, Hayes is a passionate advocate for marine education and conservation. She works closely with organizations to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the importance of preserving the world’s oceans.
Jennifer Hayes’s underwater photography is a powerful combination of science, art, and advocacy. Her images invite viewers to look deeper into the oceans, appreciate their beauty, and understand the importance of protecting them. Through her work, Hayes continues to inspire people to care for the oceans and the incredible life they sustain.
11. Andrey Savin
Andrey Savin, a renowned Russian underwater photographer, has carved a niche for himself by specializing in macro photography. His keen eye for the minute details of marine life offers a fresh and profound perspective on the ocean's hidden wonders. Unlike many underwater photographers who focus on wide shots of large marine creatures, Savin’s work brings attention to the small, often overlooked creatures that play a crucial role in marine ecosystems.
Through his macro photography, Savin showcases the delicate and intricate beauty of marine life that many may never see in person. From the vivid textures of coral to the delicate patterns of tiny marine creatures, his photographs expose a world of life that is typically hidden from human eyes. His ability to capture the fine details of underwater organisms, such as the complex structure of jellyfish or the minute movements of seahorses, provides insight into the extraordinary complexity of ocean life.
Savin’s photography not only captivates but educates, fostering a deeper appreciation for the small-scale biodiversity of the oceans. His work underscores the fact that these seemingly insignificant creatures are critical to the health of marine ecosystems. By highlighting the beauty and intricacies of microscopic marine life, Savin brings attention to the need for marine conservation. His images evoke a sense of wonder while reminding viewers that every small organism plays a vital role in the interconnected web of life beneath the ocean's surface.
Savin’s focus on macro photography also gives him a unique role in the underwater photography community. Through his lens, he challenges conventional perspectives by demonstrating that the small creatures of the ocean are just as deserving of attention as larger species. In addition to his exceptional photographic skill, Savin often shares his knowledge with others, guiding workshops and leading tours that allow aspiring photographers and marine enthusiasts to experience the beauty of the underwater world firsthand. His work is a powerful reminder that the ocean’s beauty lies not just in its most famous creatures but in the small wonders that make it such a rich and diverse ecosystem.
12. Jorge Cervera Hauser
Jorge Cervera Hauser is an accomplished underwater photographer and eco-tourism advocate known for his exceptional ability to capture the behavior and unique qualities of marine creatures. As a passionate advocate for ocean preservation, Cervera Hauser uses his camera as a tool to promote sustainable eco-tourism and environmental conservation efforts. His photographs are more than just visual masterpieces—they serve as a powerful statement about the urgent need to protect marine life.
Through his lens, Cervera Hauser documents rare marine behaviors, providing the world with unprecedented glimpses into the lives of creatures from both well-known and unexplored parts of the ocean. His captivating photographs of species such as manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks invite viewers to witness the complex, often mysterious lives of these animals. His work sheds light on their behaviors, from mating rituals to feeding habits, helping to deepen our understanding of the delicate balance in marine ecosystems.
In addition to his talent for capturing breathtaking images, Cervera Hauser is also dedicated to promoting eco-tourism as a means of conserving the oceans. His work encourages responsible travel and highlights destinations where both local communities and the environment can benefit from tourism. He advocates for ocean tourism that prioritizes sustainability and education, helping travelers understand the importance of preserving the environments they visit. By intertwining his photography with eco-tourism advocacy, Cervera Hauser helps raise awareness about the critical need to protect the oceans while offering a platform for ethical tourism.
Through his photography, Cervera Hauser continues to inspire people to appreciate and protect marine life, using his images to both educate and motivate action. His ability to capture the splendor of the ocean’s most elusive creatures while advocating for their protection makes him one of the most influential underwater photographers of his generation.
13. Irina Kazakova
Irina Kazakova is a Russian rhythmic gymnast turned underwater photographer who has found a unique way to combine her passion for movement and water in her photography. Her captivating underwater portraits often feature athletes, gymnasts, and dancers, capturing their graceful movements within the fluid environment of the ocean. Kazakova’s work blurs the line between art and performance, creating mesmerizing images that convey both beauty and strength.
What makes Kazakova’s photography stand out is her ability to depict the human body’s connection to water. As a former gymnast, Kazakova brings an inherent understanding of movement to her photography, allowing her to capture the elegance and fluidity of her subjects as they move through the water. Her images often convey a sense of harmony between the human form and the ocean, as if the two are one. This unique blend of athleticism and artistry creates compelling underwater portraits that leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Kazakova’s underwater portraits are also a celebration of movement and grace. She captures moments of suspension and fluidity that are not possible to experience in traditional photography. The weightlessness of the subjects, combined with the ever-changing textures of the water, creates a sense of magic and mystery. Kazakova’s work invites viewers to see the ocean as both a literal and metaphorical stage, where humans and nature come together in perfect harmony.
In addition to her artistic vision, Kazakova is deeply committed to marine conservation. By incorporating the ocean into her portraiture, she highlights the beauty and importance of protecting the seas. Her work serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and nature, urging viewers to recognize the need for conservation and responsible interaction with the environment.
14. Scott Wilson
Scott Wilson is an Australian underwater photographer whose work focuses on capturing dramatic encounters with ocean giants. Known for his striking use of natural light, Wilson’s images are filled with depth and emotion, highlighting the majesty of marine life and the vastness of the ocean. His work evokes a deep sense of awe, reminding viewers of the incredible scale of the underwater world and the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems.
Wilson’s photography often features marine creatures such as whales, sharks, and manta rays, with a particular focus on the dynamic encounters between humans and these ocean giants. His use of light plays a central role in his photography, often capturing his subjects in dramatic lighting that highlights their graceful movements and larger-than-life presence. Through his lens, Wilson invites viewers to experience the ocean in a way that feels both intimate and grand, as he captures fleeting moments of connection between humans and marine creatures.
Beyond his technical skill, Wilson’s work also serves as a powerful conservation message. His images highlight the beauty and importance of protecting these majestic animals and the delicate ecosystems they inhabit. As a photographer, Wilson uses his work to inspire people to connect with the ocean and to recognize the responsibility we all share in preserving it for future generations. Through his breathtaking images, Wilson helps viewers understand that the ocean is not just a place to visit, but a vital, life-sustaining system that requires our care and attention.
Wilson’s commitment to ocean conservation and his stunning use of natural light have made him one of the most respected underwater photographers in the world. His work continues to inspire and educate, showing that photography can be a powerful tool for both artistic expression and environmental advocacy.
15. Tom Cannon
Tom Cannon is an underwater photographer and avid surfer who has combined his love for the ocean with his passion for marine conservation. Cannon co-founded the “Protect What You Love” initiative, a clothing line dedicated to raising awareness for ocean conservation and the protection of marine species. Through his photography, Cannon showcases the beauty and vitality of the ocean, capturing its vast landscapes and the creatures that call it home.
Cannon’s photography emphasizes the beauty of the ocean and the importance of preserving marine habitats. His images often feature dramatic seascapes, dynamic wildlife shots, and intimate underwater portraits. Cannon’s work is an ode to the ocean, as he captures both its serene beauty and the fierce power that lies beneath the surface.
As an advocate for conservation, Cannon uses his photography to raise awareness about the threats facing the oceans. His work highlights the need for sustainable practices, responsible tourism, and the protection of vulnerable species. By using his platform to promote environmental awareness, Cannon is helping to inspire others to take action in the fight to protect the world’s oceans.
Tom Cannon’s work stands as a testament to the power of photography as both an art form and a tool for social change. Through his stunning underwater imagery and dedication to marine conservation, he continues to inspire others to appreciate and protect the oceans that are so vital to our planet’s health.
16. Greg Lecoeur
Greg Lecoeur is a passionate marine conservationist and underwater photographer whose stunning images showcase the vibrant marine life of the deep sea. His work captures the diversity of ocean creatures and emphasizes the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems. Lecoeur’s commitment to environmental preservation is evident in the powerful images he creates, which bring the wonders of the underwater world to the surface.
17. Tom St George
Tom St George is a photographer and diver whose work takes viewers into the mysterious world of underwater caverns, caves, and marine wildlife. His photographs offer a unique view of the ocean’s hidden realms, capturing moments of beauty and intrigue. St George’s work transports viewers to otherworldly places, revealing the secrets of the deep sea.
Conclusion: Leading Underwater Photographers to Watch in 2025
These 17 underwater photographers are pushing the boundaries of what we know about marine life and ocean photography. Their breathtaking images not only showcase the beauty of life beneath the waves but also encourage conservation efforts that are essential for the preservation of our oceans. Whether you're an aspiring underwater photographer or simply a fan of oceanic art, these talented individuals are sure to inspire and educate with their powerful images of the deep sea. If you’re looking to explore underwater photography for yourself, learning from these experts will help you capture the wonders of the ocean while advocating for its protection.
