Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, AARSAN1 - Oceanographic
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Winners Gallery

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1st place Young Photographer of the Year

Aaron Sanders United Kingdom

50°24'00.7"N 3°30'13.7"W

"Under the cover of night, two tiny Bobtail squid engaged in an intimate display, their arms intertwined as they mated on the seabed," says Sanders. "Waves of colour rippled across their bodies as chromatophores pulsed in a mesmerising rhythm, white flickered to gold, gold to red, and back again, transforming them into living, glowing jewels in the dark. These otherworldly creatures performed their courtship, creating the next generation of Bobtail squid. I felt privileged to have witnessed this rare and tender moment. Approaching with care, I documented this encounter without disturbing the pair, capturing their brilliant display in all its intricate detail."

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, AARSAN1

Aaron Sanders United Kingdom (UK)

  • Follow Aaron On Instagram

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • 1:30am shoot
  • Cloudy with light rain
  • Shot while scuba diving
  • f/22, 1/200s, ISO 320

Aaron is an underwater photographer and filmmaker based in the UK, passionate about showcasing the beauty and diversity of British marine life. A strong advocate for UK diving, he aims to highlight the often-overlooked species and habitats found in local waters. When not exploring the British coast, Aaron works internationally as an underwater videographer, frequently diving across Indonesia. Whether capturing rugged wildlife in cold waters or the vibrant life of the tropics, Aaron feels at home beneath the surface, using his imagery to connect people with the underwater world and promote its conservation.

MORE IMAGES BY Aaron Sanders

Conservation (Hope)Photographer of the Year

2025 Indonesia

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, AARSAN15

YoungPhotographer of the Year

2023 Falmouth, UK

Young Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023, AS

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