Shark Photographer of the Year 2026 Opens for Entries with South Africa Dive Adventure Up for Grabs

The Shark Trust has officially opened entries for the Shark Photographer of the Year 2026 competition, inviting underwater photographers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world to showcase the beauty and diversity of sharks, skates, rays and chimaera.

Launched to coincide with the start of Shark Month, the annual competition celebrates some of the ocean’s most fascinating and often misunderstood species while highlighting the importance of marine conservation through powerful imagery.

Photographers can submit up to three images between 1 July and 31 August 2026. Unlike many photography competitions, Shark Photographer of the Year does not divide entries into fixed categories. Instead, competitors simply submit their strongest three-image portfolio, allowing the judging panel to determine the standout entries.

The overall winner will be selected based on the strength of their complete portfolio, while individual photographs may also receive recognition in the British Isles and Overseas categories where appropriate. Images that closely reflect the Shark Trust’s conservation programmes may also receive special recognition.

Prize Worth More Than £1,600

This year’s overall winner will receive a shark diving adventure in South Africa, including:

• Economy return flights provided by Diverse Travel
• Diving and accommodation courtesy of Agulhas House & Diving
• Access to world-famous shark diving destinations including Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks

The prize package is valued at more than £1,600, subject to terms and conditions.

Additional category winners will receive premium diving equipment including:

• Mares Sirius dive computer
• Apeks XTX50 Stage 3 regulator set
• Aqualung Explorer 120 dive bag

Winners Announced at For the Love of Sharks

Finalists will be chosen by an experienced judging panel comprising Charles Hood, Nick Robertson-Brown and Simon Rogerson.

Selected images will be exhibited during the Shark Trust’s flagship event, For the Love of Sharks, taking place at the Royal Geographical Society in London this November. Winners will be announced live during the evening event on 27 November 2026.

Celebrating Sharks Through Photography

Whether capturing a close encounter with a shark, the graceful movement of a ray, or the intricate detail of an eggcase, the competition aims to celebrate the remarkable diversity of cartilaginous fishes while inspiring greater appreciation for their conservation.

With sharks and rays facing increasing pressures worldwide from overfishing, habitat loss and climate change, photography competitions such as this help connect people with species that are vital to healthy marine ecosystems.

Photographers wishing to enter have until 31 August 2026 to submit their images.

For full competition details and entry information, visit: https://www.sharktrust.org/spy26