The ocean has a way of stopping us in our tracks. One second you’re scrolling through your feed, and the next you’re staring at a tiny cuttlefish glowing with impossible colors or a massive walrus sharing a quiet moment with her calf. That’s the feeling the 2026 Ocean Conservancy Photo Contest delivers. This year’s winners are beautiful photographs and powerful reminders of how incredible our blue planet really is.
More than 1,000 photographers and ocean enthusiasts submitted their favorite marine moments during National Ocean Month, turning the contest into a breathtaking celebration of life beneath the waves. Each image tells a different story, from playful sea creatures and dramatic underwater encounters to peaceful coastal scenes that highlight the fragile beauty of our oceans.
Stealing the spotlight this year is Richard Rothstein’s "Walrus Nursing," the Judges’ Choice Winner. The portrait captures two female walruses caring for their young calves, showcasing a tender side of wildlife that many people rarely get to witness. It’s a photograph that speaks without words, reminding us that family, care, and survival exist far beyond the human world.
The remaining winning photographs are equally mesmerizing, featuring colorful cuttlefish, majestic marine mammals, and unforgettable underwater moments. Together, these images celebrate the ocean’s rich biodiversity while encouraging us to appreciate and protect the waters that connect us all. Scroll down and enjoy these award-winning photographs.
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#1. Judges Choice Winner – "Walrus Nursing" by Richard Rothstein
"Our group was in a small skiff slowly moving among the icebergs when we came upon the scene in the image. Two female walruses were in what appeared to be a protective posture as one of the females was nursing a small calf. We remained a very respectable distance and did not approach. The walruses seemed to completely tolerate our presence as there appeared to be no alteration of their natural behavior. This was my first encounter with walruses, and it was truly an experience of a lifetime!!" – Richard Rothstein, 2026 Judges Choice Winner
#2. Staff Choice Winner – "The Lone Ranger" by Rowan Dear
"A large male Giant Cuttlefish cruises around the shoreline of Whyalla, looking for a mate this season. Most of the Cuttlefish here are smaller and similar size to the females, however you will see some very large males who are 3-4 times the size of some males who will swim around and bully and dominate the other males and sometimes guard up to 3 females. The larger males are probably 2 years old and have been eating their way through summer waiting for the mating season in winter." – Rowan Dear, 2026 Staff Choice Winner
#3. People’s Choice Winner – "Sweet Seal" by Nicole Pellegrino
"This sweet seal was resting on the shore of Long Beach, NY on a bright sunny day in April 2024." – Nicole Pellegrino, 2026 People’s Choice Winner
Honorable Mentions
#4. Photo by Laura Murchie
#5. Photo by Aldo Gustavo Galante
#6. Photo by Bingqian Gao
#7. Photo by Akira Asahina
#8. Photo by Mathilde Chevallay
#9. Photo by David Fleetham
#10. Photo by Michelle Hare
#11. Photo by Bill Ehman
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Ocean Conservancy Photo Contest?
The Ocean Conservancy Photo Contest is an annual photography competition that celebrates oceans, marine wildlife, and coastal ecosystems. It encourages photographers worldwide to share images that support ocean conservation and raise awareness about marine environments.
Who won the 2026 Ocean Conservancy Photo Contest?
The Judges’ Choice Winner for the 2026 Ocean Conservancy Photo Contest is Richard Rothstein for his photograph "Walrus Nursing," which features two female walruses and their calves.
How many photos were submitted to the 2026 contest?
The 2026 Ocean Conservancy Photo Contest received more than 1,000 submissions from ocean lovers and photographers worldwide during National Ocean Month.
What kinds of wildlife appear in the winning photographs?
The winning collection features marine life including cuttlefish, walruses, and other ocean creatures. These images highlight the diversity, beauty, and importance of Earth’s underwater ecosystems.
Why are marine wildlife photography contests important?
Marine wildlife photography contests inspire appreciation for the ocean and raise conservation awareness. Powerful images connect viewers to marine habitats and biodiversity for future generations.
