Underwater Photographer of the Year 2027

Underwater Photographer of the Year, known as UPY, is the leading international competition for underwater photography, based in the UK and with roots going back to the 1965 Brighton Festival. The 2027 competition opens on 1 November 2026 and closes on 4 January 2027 at midnight GMT. Photographers from every country can enter images in thirteen main categories, from Wide Angle and Macro to Wrecks, Black & White and Mobile Phone, plus the Save Our Seas Foundation Marine Conservation category, which is free to enter.

The top title of the 2027 competition goes to the single best image in the competition, and winners are celebrated at an awards ceremony in London in February 2027.

Categories

• Wide Angle
• Macro
• Wrecks
• Behaviour
• Portrait
• Coral Reefs
• Black & White
• Up & Coming
• Compact
• Mobile Phone
• British Waters Wide Angle
• British Waters Macro
• British Waters Living Together (free, up to 5 images)
• Save Our Seas Foundation Marine Conservation (free, up to 5 images; open to underwater and above-water images)

Who Can Enter UPY 2027?

Underwater photographers anywhere in the world. Three titles are open to every country: the overall title, Up & Coming and the Marine Conservation Photographer of the Year. Two further titles are reserved for British photographers or photographers living in the UK. It is particularly relevant to:

• Scuba divers and freedivers who photograph
• Wildlife and conservation photographers
• Beginners, through the Up & Coming and Compact categories

Entry Fees

• Up to 3 images: £20
• Up to 10 images: £35
• Up to 20 images: £45
• British Waters Living Together and Marine Conservation: free, up to 5 images each

Payment is by PayPal, and images can be spread across categories.

What Do Winners Receive?

• The UPY 2027 title for the best single image
• Category prizes from the competition's sponsors
• Publication in the UPY yearbook and wide press coverage
• An invitation to the awards ceremony in London

Submission Requirements

Images in the main categories must be taken underwater; split-level images are allowed if part of the image is underwater. British Waters images must be taken in UK waters. Shortlisted photographers must supply RAW files or original JPEGs with metadata.

Why Enter Underwater Photographer of the Year?

UPY is the most recognised title in underwater photography, followed by divers, magazines and equipment makers worldwide. The free conservation category is also a way to support ocean protection with your images.

Tips for a Strong Entry

Choose images where the subject is clear and the water is clean. Behaviour shots tell stories and often stand out. Avoid disturbing marine life: judges value ethical practice.

How the Judging Works

Images are judged within their categories by a panel of experienced underwater photographers, and the best images go forward to the overall titles. Shortlisted photographers are asked for their RAW or original files so the judges can confirm that edits stay within the rules. Every entrant receives their results in mid-January, with an indication of how far each image progressed, which makes UPY useful feedback even if you do not win.

Things to Consider

• Deadline: 4 January 2027 at midnight GMT.
• Keep your RAW files: you will need them if shortlisted.
• Use the free categories: up to 5 images each.
• British titles: only for British photographers or UK residents.

Enter the Competition

Ready to enter your underwater images?

Enter Underwater Photographer of the Year

For the full rules, categories and entry form, visit the official UPY website.

Looking for more open calls? Browse all competitions and opportunities on Good Stuff Weekly.

Last verified: October 28, 2026