UPY is an international competition with a long heritage. Historically the UK has been home to some of the world’s most prestigious underwater photography competitions. Bernard Eaton kicked it off when he organised the first Brighton Underwater Film Festival in 1965 (and it was a competition that led to the foundation of the British Society of Underwater Photographers in 1967). Furthermore, Britain continues to be the home of world class wildlife photography competitions. So 50 years later the UPY competition beggins and brings to surface a remarkable variety of underwater photos. In 2014/15 Alex, Peter and Martin had to deal with a great amount of (outstanding) hi-class underwater images from over 40 countries. The results of the contest were shown to the press and social media all over the world, scoring a resoulding succes. Since then, UPY contest expands worldwide concerning participations and recognition!! 

I want to thank the judges Alex Mustard, Peter Rowlands and Martin Edge for selecting my photograph. A big thanks also to Dan Bolt and Saeed Rasheed for their awesome work behind the scene. 

Congratulations to all winners for their amazing work!!

Underwater photographer of the year 2019 results gallery.