The votes have been counted, and we’re excited to share the 2026 Discover the Sea Photography Contest results! Over 600 stunning photos were submitted to this year’s contest, and over 3,000 votes were cast! First, second, and third place winners were selected via popular vote for each of the following photo categories: Fish Portrait, Macro, Invertebrate, Comedy, and Habitat/Seascape/Environment. A special overall winner was also selected as a favorite by REEF Staff. Visit this page to view all the winning photos.
Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s contest by submitting photos, voting for your favorite images, or both!
Photo Credit: “Eye of the Storm” by Ray Anthony Iavasile, photographed in the Philippines. 2nd Place, Habitat/Seascape/Environment category.