An African first - Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 at the Two Oceans Aquarium

“It is an incredible honour to be hosting the Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition for the first time on the African continent. Exhibitions such as these shine a light on the magnificence of the ocean and its inhabitants, illustrating what we have to lose without action. This aligns with what the Two Oceans Aquarium stands for: Conservation, education and research with the aim of inspiring action for the future well-being of our oceans,” says Alichia Nortjie, Guest Experience Manager.

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025

The Ocean Photographer of the Year, presented by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, has a simple mission: To shine a light on the wonder and fragility of our blue planet and to celebrate the photographers giving it a voice. The programme is composed of three interconnected pillars: Raising awareness of the ocean’s beauty, supporting scientific research on ecosystems and underwater phenomena, and taking concrete conservation actions, such as helping to create marine protected areas around the world.

"The winners of this year’s Ocean Photographer of the Year remind us that photography is more than art – it is a bridge. Their images connect people to the ocean in ways words cannot, reaching those who may never dive in it or paddle on it, but whose lives are deeply intertwined with it. In a time of planetary urgency, this year’s photographers invite the world to see, feel, and ultimately care. Their work is critical because we protect what we understand," says Will Harrison, Director of Ocean Photographer of the Year.

Ivanov’s vibrant image of two synchronised ‘ladybugs of the sea’ mesmerised the judging panel, who connected with the simplicity of its message that the ocean is a place of wonder, colour, and life of all sizes (the ladybugs are just 3mm tall).

The winning photograph – taken at Ivanov’s local dive site in Bali, Indonesia – was chosen from more than 15 000 images from all over the world.

Speaking about what it meant to be named Ocean Photographer of the Year, Ivanov said: "Winning Ocean Photographer of the Year is an incredible feeling; I’m deeply grateful for the recognition. This award is not just about one image, but about celebrating the ocean itself – its fragility, its diversity, and its extraordinary power to inspire us”.

This year’s photographs comprise epic wildlife images, including a drooling dragon, torpedo-like penguins and a puffin desperately trying to evade a thief; sensational visions of fine art, such as a stingray atop a billowing sand-cloud, the mountain range-like ruffles of a Weddel seal’s fur coat, and a juvenile candy crab ruling over its pink wonderland; a nuanced exploration of our own species’ connection with the ocean, including a gravity-defying surfer launching toward a rainbow, the brutal reality of whale hunting in the Faroe Islands, and a team of conservationists and marine mammal rescuers attempting to save a beached whale.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 Exhibition at the Two Oceans Aquarium this festive season, 12 December to 21 January 2025, included in your regular Aquarium Day Pass.