Mobula rays are often called “devil rays,” but unlike their relatives, stingrays, they lack a stinger, making them a little less nefarious than their name implies. When rays come together in a group, it is known as a squadron and for photographers Brittany Ilardi and Eduardo Acevedo, the phenomenon inspired award-winning photographs in the 2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Contest presented by Underwater photography guide.
Now in its 13th year, the competition saw record-breaking participation with entries submitted from more than 90 countries. From macro views such as Imogen manin‘s Capture of a Fish Camoufled In Coral to stunning black-and-white scenes like Eduardo Labat’s best-in-show observation of circling white-tip sharks, the winning images showcase the beauty, diversity and fragility of underwater ecosystems.
Additional acclaimed images include portraits of nudibranchs In the Philippines, a swimming octopus in Spain, and diving seabirds in the northern islands of Scotland. A category dedicated to underwater conservation encourages us to think more carefully about what happens to single-use plastics when we’re done with them or how discarded fishing equipment and ghost nets can harm wildlife. Other creative categories include digital, blackwater, behavior and underwater fashion.
“The talent and vision of our participants have set new benchmarks for underwater photography,” said competition organizer Nirupam Nigam, who is also president of Bluewater photo and editor-in-chief of the Underwater photography guide. “These images do more than praise; They captivate hearts and minds, reach millions worldwide and remind us of our shared responsibility to protect the beauty of the ocean. “
Dive into the online Winners galleryand keep an eye on the competition website For announcements about the open call for the 2025 edition.
