Epic whale image wins the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2024

The image, taken by French photographer Thomas Peschak, captures a humpback whale breaching the water's surface in dramatic fashion.

The prestigious award, which is now in its 10th year, celebrates the best underwater photography from around the world.

The winning image was taken in the waters off the coast of Tonga, and Peschak said he was "overwhelmed with joy" to have won the award.

"I've been photographing whales for many years, but I've never seen anything like this before," he said. "It was an incredible moment, and I'm so grateful to have been able to capture it."

The Ocean Photographer of the Year award is judged by a panel of experts, and the winning image is chosen based on its technical excellence, creativity, and impact.

This year's competition attracted over 5,000 entries from photographers around the world.

The winning image will be displayed at the Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition in London, which opens on 15th September 2024.