Winners Gallery

<< Back to WINNERS GALLERY

1st place Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean

Craig Parry Australia

28°44'32.3"S 153°36'21.7"E

"In the early hours of July 1st, we received a call about a stranded humpback whale," says Parry. "Wildlife veterinarian Steve Van Mil quickly assessed the situation and contacted SeaWorld Marine Rescue and other key agencies to coordinate a response. For 15 hours, rescue teams and the local community worked tirelessly in a unified effort to save her. Sadly, despite their dedication, she could not be saved. While the outcome was heartbreaking, witnessing the collaboration and compassion shown by multiple agencies and volunteers was incredibly moving - a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose." 

BEHIND THE LENS

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, CRAPAR1

Craig Parry Australia

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • 2m swell
  • Cold, but no wind
  • Mid-morning
  • F/4, 1/2000s, ISO 200

Craig Parry is an award-winning Australian ocean and nature photographer and filmmaker, known for capturing powerful, intimate moments in the natural world. With a background in visual arts, his work spans aerial and underwater realms, focusing on wildlife, conservation, and remote landscapes. Craig collaborates with global brands and conservation groups to create emotionally resonant imagery that inspires deeper environmental connection and action. His fine art photography blends beauty and abstraction, portraying marine and landscape subjects in their natural settings with a unique perspective that invites viewers to see the world - and its fragility - through a more connected lens.

MORE IMAGES BY Craig Parry