Washington, D.C. – Ocean Conservancy has announced the winners of its 2020 photo contest, and is marking Shark Week with a special sharks-specific photo collection.

Photographers from around the world submitted a record 1,055 images capturing the magnificence and spectacle of our ocean across four categories: Human Impact, Marine Wildlife, Underwater Wonders, and Coastlines & Seascapes. More than 8,000 votes were cast to select winners in each category, while a panel of judges selected a grand prize “Judges’ Choice” entry.

Beginning with a stunning Australian coastline in the “Judges’ Choice” entry, the five lucky winners captured the picturesque beauty and complexities of the ocean. Ranging from the graceful fin of a lemon shark swimming along the water’s surface to a heartwarming image of a mother humpback whale with her calf, from a leatherback hatchling sea turtle taking its first breath to a weedy sea dragon facing down ocean pollution, Ocean Conservancy is thrilled to reveal the recipients of this year’s top honors here.

“Imagery is incredibly important for bringing attention to the complex issues our ocean continues to face,” said Julia Roberson, Vice President for Communications at Ocean Conservancy. “Each submission represents an opportunity to convey our ocean’s beauty and the urgent need to protect it, and we are grateful to the many photographers, voters, and judges who have contributed to this important effort.”

The Judge’s Choice winner will receive a gift of $500 value, and the four category winners will receive a gift of $150 value. Every photo entered to the contest has a chance to be featured in Ocean Conservancy’s 2022 calendar.

Aligning with Shark Week, notable this year was the remarkable variety of images of some of the most awe-inspiring and popular creatures in the ocean: sharks. These submissions, exhibiting a range of species, allow you to get up close and personal with Hammerheads, Great Whites, and more from the comfort of your home, in addition to highlighting the importance of protecting these incredible creatures.

“Seeing a shark underwater as part of a healthy ocean ecosystem is an unforgettable experience,” said Elizabeth Cerny-Chipman, Senior Fish Policy Analyst at Ocean Conservancy. “It’s thrilling that so many photographers were able to capture that lucky moment and share it with us all.”

Check out our shark slide show below:

About Ocean Conservancy

Ocean Conservancy is working with you to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together, we create science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it. For more information, visit www.oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.