Tim Mcgrady
Underwater photography takes us into a world that seems like a dream—mysterious, vibrant, and often untouched by human hands. The secrets beneath the ocean’s surface have fascinated adventurers, scientists, and artists for centuries. Capturing these moments through a lens is no easy task. The play of light, movement of water, and unpredictability of marine life make underwater photography one of the most challenging forms of visual storytelling.
But for those who have mastered it, the results are breathtaking. From colorful coral reefs to haunting shipwrecks and ethereal portraits of humans submerged, the best underwater photographers show us the depths of creativity and courage.
In this article, we dive into the inspiring work of the top 10 best underwater photographers in the world. These are the pioneers and artists whose lenses have brought us closer to the magic that lies beneath.
1. David Doubilet (USA)
Often referred to as the godfather of underwater photography, David Doubilet has been redefining underwater visual storytelling for decades. A longtime contributor to National Geographic, Doubilet has explored nearly every corner of the ocean, capturing both marine life and human interaction with aquatic environments. His images are poetic yet scientifically significant, blending art and environmental journalism seamlessly.
Notable work: “Face to Face with Fish”, “Water Light Time”
Follow: @daviddoubilet
2. Paul Nicklen (Canada)
A marine biologist turned photographer, Paul Nicklen brings a unique perspective to his underwater shots. His work primarily focuses on polar regions, giving us a rare glimpse of marine life in icy habitats. A co-founder of SeaLegacy, Nicklen uses his art to drive ocean conservation and raise awareness about climate change.
Known for: Captivating shots of leopard seals, narwhals, and polar bears swimming under Arctic ice.
Follow: @paulnicklen
3. Elena Kalis (Bahamas)
If you’ve ever seen surreal underwater portraits that look like they’re from a fantasy dream, chances are they were taken by Elena Kalis. Originally from Russia and now based in the Bahamas, Kalis specializes in underwater fine art photography. She often uses themes from fairy tales, mythology, and fashion to create otherworldly compositions.
Signature style: Ethereal portraits of models and children under crystal-clear waters.
Famous project: Alice in Waterland
Follow: @elenakalis
4. Zena Holloway (UK)
Blending fashion, fine art, and underwater photography, Zena Holloway has worked with major global brands and publications. Her ability to create graceful, weightless human poses beneath water has set her apart in the industry. Holloway’s work often looks like underwater ballet—elegant, emotional, and mesmerizing.
Clients: Nike, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar
Fun fact: She shoots everything in-camera without relying on post-production tricks.
Follow: @zenaholloway
5. Christian Vizl (Mexico)
Known for his high-contrast black-and-white images, Christian Vizl brings an elegant, fine-art approach to underwater photography. A former competitive diver, he has a deep connection with the water, which is evident in his emotionally charged compositions. His book “Silent Kingdom” is a tribute to the fragile beauty of ocean life.
Awards: Winner of multiple international photo contests including Ocean Art and Wildlife Photographer of the Year.
Follow: @christianvizl
6. Brian Skerry (USA)
Brian Skerry is an award-winning photojournalist and marine wildlife photographer for National Geographic. With a strong emphasis on storytelling, his work sheds light on both the wonders and the threats facing our oceans today. Skerry often documents rarely seen behaviors of marine animals, from whales to sharks.
Highlights: 2021 Secrets of the Whales documentary on Disney+ (produced with James Cameron)
Follow: @brianskerry
7. Laurent Ballesta (France)
Marine biologist and photographer Laurent Ballesta is known for combining science with visual storytelling. He’s taken part in several deep-sea explorations and was the first to photograph the elusive coelacanth—a “living fossil”—in its natural habitat. Ballesta’s technical skills are unmatched, often using rebreathers and deep-diving tech for his work.
Notable expedition: Gombessa Project – exploring deep and unexplored marine environments.
Follow: @laurentballesta
8. Andrea Frazzetta (Italy)
Andrea Frazzetta is a documentary photographer whose underwater work captures the human side of oceanic exploration. His work doesn’t always focus on marine life; instead, he often tells the stories of people connected to the sea—free divers, fishermen, pearl divers. His images are deeply narrative and rich in culture.
Publications: TIME, National Geographic, The New York Times
Follow: @andreafrazzetta
9. Jill Heinerth (Canada)
More than a photographer, Jill Heinerth is a pioneer in underwater exploration. She’s one of the world’s leading underwater cave divers and has documented places where no human has ever been before. Her images are not just beautiful; they are scientific records of unexplored systems.
Specialty: Underwater caves and extreme environments (like Antarctic icebergs).
Books: “Into the Planet” – a memoir of underwater exploration.
Follow: @jillheinerth
10. Alex Mustard (UK)
A marine biologist with a Ph.D. in marine ecology, Alex Mustard is renowned for his vibrant and technically complex underwater images. His book “Underwater Photography Masterclass” is a must-read for anyone entering the field. Mustard has been instrumental in raising the standards of underwater imaging, both artistically and scientifically.
Tech genius: Invented a number of innovative lighting techniques to better capture underwater colors.
Follow: @alexmustard1
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