From Thursday, September 4 to Sunday, September 7, Monaco transformed into the epicenter of underwater photography, hosting a spectacular four-day event that united the world’s best lensmen and women beneath the waves. The Club d’Exploration Sous-Marine de Monaco (CESMM), under the distinguished patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, brought together three major competitions — the 20th National Competition, the 2nd International Challenge, and the Junior Contest “Eyes Beneath the Sea” — creating a unique festival that blends passion, art, and ocean conservation.
The excitement kicked off Friday morning as eleven countries, including Italy, Germany, Tunisia, and Lebanon, gathered for the International Challenge briefing before plunging into Monaco’s pristine, protected waters. The Mediterranean’s dazzling underwater world revealed its vibrant inhabitants — from colourful nudibranchs to young fish darting through shimmering light — captured through sophisticated equipment sealed and verified by judges to ensure fair play. These breathtaking images remained secret until their grand reveal on Sunday at the Oceanographic Museum.
The real showstopper came Friday night with the world’s first competitive underwater night photography session. Photographers braved the depths again under artificial lights, where the darkness transformed the seascape into a mysterious, glowing realm. Competing across categories like macro, fish portrait, wide-angle, and a special themed challenge, participants faced a thrilling test of skill and creativity. CESMM president Roger Mullot captured the spirit perfectly: “At night, everything changes. Everything becomes more intense.”
Saturday spotlighted the historic National Competition with thirteen teams showcasing Monaco’s rich marine biodiversity. Meanwhile, the Junior Contest inspired the next generation of ocean guardians, with young photographers aged 8 to 17 exploring the sea’s wonders and learning to protect it through their images. Across the Principality, the atmosphere was one of celebration, where athleticism and artistry intertwined to create not just stunning photographs but a powerful message about the fragile beauty of our oceans.
The festival concluded on Sunday morning with an awards ceremony at the Oceanographic Museum, honouring the artists who have made the hidden underwater world visible and reminding us all of the urgent need to safeguard it. Monaco’s underwater photography event has proven to be far more than a contest — it’s a breathtaking tribute to the ocean’s magic and a rallying cry for its protection.
