Yury Ivanov. All images © the photographers, courtesy of Ocean Photographer of the Year, shared with permission ‘Ladybugs of the Sea’ Take Top Honors in the 2025 Ocean Photographer of the Year Contest NaturePhotography Kate Mothes SharePinEmail BookmarkFrom tiny creatures measuring only three millimeters to humpback whales of incredible proportions, the animals and seascapes represented in this year’s Ocean Photographer of the Year explore the incredible diversity and fragility of our cherished saltwater ecosystems. More than 15,000 images were submitted to the 2025 contest from around the globe. The morning ritual at Tam Tien beach, reflecting a deep connection between the sea and coastal livelihoods, VietnamAlvaro Herrero. A freediver, accompanied by two humpback whales, maintains a respectful distance, French PolynesiaShi Xioawen.