World Underwater Macro Awards 2026

Ajiex Dharma is an award winning photographer based in tulamben, Bali. Is highly sought-after star dive guide to many top- ranking photographer for is creative approche. Ever since he started taking photos underwater in 2014, it has become a point of return. Photography is slowly integrated into his life and becomes his passion.

Ben Sarinda is a highly respected underwater photographer and divemaster renowned for his captivating imagery and expertise in marine life. With a passion for underwater photography and videography, he has earned a reputation as a leading authority, particularly among those who frequent Lembeh Ben transitioned to the dive department where he evolved from boat crew to become one of Lembeh’s premier underwater photography guides.

Christophe Kazmierski is a French underwater photographer and engineer who has dedicated his work to documenting the hidden world of macro and super-macro marine life. He started underwater shooting over 40 years ago and underwater digital photography from its early beginning in 2000.

Ipah Uid Lynn is an internationally celebrated Malaysian underwater photographer, Canon EOS Master, Marelux Ambassador, and PADI Instructor. Her imagery blends emotion and artistry, redefining how stories of the ocean are told with sensitivity with strength, and purpose. Winner of the Blancpain Female Fifty Fathoms Award at the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2024, Ipah’s work has been featured in global exhibitions around the world and publications.

Originally from Northern Germany, Kati Eschweiler is a co-founder of The Three P Beach Resort in Romblon, the Philippines. More than 16 years diving in the Philippines, the passion for exploring the ocean has gradually honed her expertise as a rare critter specialist in the region. In 2025, Kati received one of the most grateful moments in her life: a newly discovered butterfly sea slug species - Cyerce katiae - was named after her. This is a heartfelt endorsement of her love and dedication to the ocean.

Pietro Formis is an acclaimed Italian underwater he has established himself as one of Europe’s premier macro specialists and a dedicated workshop instructor. Through his images, Pietro aims to inspire wonder and bring viewers closer to the hidden life beneath the surface.

Tim Ho is an internationally acclaimed underwater photographer renowned for revolutionizing compact camera photography. Diving since 2003, Tim started his underwater photography journey in 2007 with a phone camera in a plastic ziplock bag. His unique approach of shooting without strobes, flash, or post-processing has inspired thousands of photographers worldwide to focus on technique over equipment. As the founder of Anilao Photo Academy, he has become one of the most respected and sought after educators in underwater photography today.