Indonesian underwater imagery shines on the global stage, revealing extraordinary artistry within the hidden wonders of the ocean

The international photography competition Close Up Photographer of the Year 2026 has once again captured global attention with an impressive collection of images that reveal the intricate details of life on a micro scale. Now in its seventh edition, the competition announced its winners in early 2026, further strengthening its reputation as one of the most respected awards in close up, macro, and micro photography. From more than 12,000 entries submitted by photographers across 63 countries, the judges selected outstanding works in 11 categories.

This year, Indonesia gained particular recognition in the Underwater category. Two photographs taken in Indonesian waters placed in the top three, highlighting the richness and visual appeal of the nation’s underwater ecosystems on the international stage.

Second place was awarded to photographer Daniel Sly for his portrait of an orange patterned frogfish, Antennarius pictus, resting on the black volcanic sand of the Lembeh Strait in North Sulawesi. The area’s distinctive dark seabed is known as an ideal habitat for rare macro marine species. The vivid contrast between the bright orange fish and the deep black background creates a strong and dramatic composition, clearly emphasizing the texture and shape of the subject.

Third place in the Underwater category went to Featherhome by Spanish photographer Luis Arpa. Captured in Tulamben, Bali, the image features a crinoid shrimp, Laomenes amboinensis, perched on a feather star. The careful attention to texture, color, and marine structure provides an intimate view of underwater life. The recognition of these two works further reinforces the reputation of Lembeh Strait and Tulamben as world class destinations for underwater photography.

Close Up Photographer of the Year is dedicated to celebrating the beauty and complexity of a world that often goes unnoticed by the naked eye. The range of subjects is diverse, from swarms of insects forming unusual landscapes to natural scenes such as ice covered trees and chemical reactions on copper plates. Among the prominent winners is the first place recipient in the Animal category, Galaksi Amfibi by Filippo Carugati from Madagascar. The photograph shows a cluster of Malagasy frog eggs, Guibemantis species, hanging from a small tree branch beside a pond in the Maromizaha rainforest. The clarity of each egg and the texture of the branch combine to form a compelling composition.

All submissions were judged on the uniqueness of the subject, composition, sharpness, and the ability to communicate a story through visual detail.

In 2026, close up photography continues to gain popularity. Advances in camera technology, growing public interest in nature and the environment, and the ease of sharing images through social media have all supported the growth of this genre. Macro photography goes beyond simple magnification. It offers new perspectives that encourage a deeper appreciation of biodiversity.

Through the achievements of this year’s winners, including those captured in Indonesian waters, the competition once again shows that remarkable beauty can be found in the smallest details waiting to be seen.

photo source: www.cupoty.com/winners-7

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