Young Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023, AS - Oceanographic
  • Shop
  • News
  • Stories
  • Podcast
  • Spotlight
  • Storyteller in Residence
  • Ocean Photographer of the Year
  • LOG IN
  • Search
Shop_singleprod_mag_cover_ISSUE44
  • OUT NOW
  • Octopus bloom
Oceanographic Logo
  • Conservation
  • Adventure
  • Exploration
  • Log In
  • Subscribe
  • Magazine
  • Read
    • Stories
    • News
    • Storyteller in residence
    • Spotlight
  • Listen
  • Shop
  • Ocean Photographer of the Year

Winners Gallery

<< Back to WINNERS GALLERY
  • Previews
  • 1st
  • 2nd
  • 3rd
  • Next

2nd place Young Photographer of the Year

Aaron Sanders Falmouth, UK

50°06'12.6"N 5°06'56.5"W

"Like a bolt of lightning piercing black clouds, this small common squid exploded onto the scene before me," says Sanders. "Jetting around, it refused to stay still, seemingly intent on exploring our torch light. After observing its movements for some time, I decided to try to capture its trail of motion using rear curtain sync. After a few attempts, I was having some success. Then, all of a sudden, as I pressed the shutter, the little squid shot off jetting a plume of ink into the black water."  

BEHIND THE LENS

Young Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023, AS

Aaron Sanders United Kingdom (UK)

  • Follow Aaron On Instagram

ABOUT THE IMAGE

  • Taken at 1am
  • Coastal walk-in
  • Shot on scuba equipment
  • Calm, clear conditions

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

2025 United Kingdom

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025, AARSAN1

Reconnect. Immerse yourself. Be inspired.

Enjoy the vibrancy, beauty and impact of each year's finalist photography, celebrated in our Ocean Photographer of the Year coffee table book collection.

Shop_otherproductsHEADER_OPYbook2023_no shadow
Add to cart Buy now

Newsletter

Receive the latest from Oceanographic and get 10% off your first order.

footer Photographer logo
  • Home page
  • OPY
  • Stories
  • Magazine
  • Contact us
  • Sitemap
  • Shop
  • News
  • Faqs
  • Legal
  • Read for free
  • Stockists

Copyright © 2025 CXD MEDIA LTD.

All rights reserved

Enjoy 30% off your first year when joining as an annual digital subscriber!

Subscribe