Mangrove Action Project has officially launched the 11th annual Mangrove Photography Awards and is inviting photographers worldwide to participate!
Each year, photographers share powerful images that tell the story of mangroves—highlighting their ecological significance, the threats they face, and the communities that depend on them. This year’s competition introduces exciting new elements to further celebrate mangrove photography—there’s new subcategories, new awards, and bigger prizes!
The competition welcomes participants of all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels. A cash prize of $500 will be awarded to the winner of each category, while one exceptional photographer will be named Mangrove Photographer of the Year and receive a prize of $750.
With entries now open, we spoke with Leo Thom, Creative Director of the Mangrove Action Project, about what makes this year’s competition unique and how it continues to evolve.
More info: photography.mangroveactionproject.org | Instagram | Facebook | Instagram
#1 "Adaptation Of Bengal Tiger" By Arijit Das, India
Mangroves and Wildlife, Winner, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
In an interview with Bored Panda, Leo shared what excites him the most about this year’s competition.
“This year brings some exciting changes that will make the competition even more impactful. The introduction of new subcategories allows photographers to explore different aspects of mangroves in greater depth.
We also have a new partnership with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, allowing us to reach more photographers and conservationists across the Arabic region and further amplify the conversation around mangrove protection.
Most of all, I’m looking forward to seeing the incredible images that come in and reviewing them with our fantastic panel of judges,” wrote Leo.
#2 "Dancing Mudskipper" By Leo Liu, Taiwan
Mangroves and Wildlife, Runner up, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#3 "The Theatre Of Plastic" By Emanuele Biggi, Malaysia
Mangroves and Threats, Winner, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
Last year’s 10th edition was a huge milestone. Therefore, we asked how that success shaped their vision for this year’s Awards.
Leo responded: “Each year, we aim to inspire more people through powerful imagery, and last year reinforced how impactful the competition can be, with over 2500 entries across 74 countries. To build on that momentum, we’re announcing the winners on World Mangrove Day (July 26) to maximize awareness. Expanding our reach is also a key focus, and collaboration plays a crucial role in achieving that. We rely on partnerships, ambassadors, and engaged communities to spread the word and encourage more participation across a variety of regions.
If you’re passionate about mangroves and want to get involved, we’d love to hear from you!”
#4 "Welcome Grinn" By Jenny Stock, Cuba
Mangroves and Wildlife, Winner, 2020.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#5 "A Brave Livelihood" By Musfiqur Rahman, Bangladesh
Overall winner, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
As for new additions, Leo walked us through the categories and prizes.
“We’ve always been committed to supporting photographers, which is why the Mangrove Photography Awards remain free to enter. Thanks to generous donations from our board, we’ve been able to increase the prize amounts this year, ensuring that the competition continues to reward and celebrate talented artists.
The introduction of new subcategories is one of the most exciting changes. We wanted to provide photographers with more opportunities to showcase their unique perspectives on mangroves. The new subcategories highlight different aspects of mangrove ecosystems:
Landscape – From the Air, On the Ground, Black and White
People – Livelihoods, Conservation and Restoration
Wildlife – Birds, Mammals, Other Species
Drone photography, in particular, has revolutionized the way mangroves are documented, revealing sweeping aerial views that were rarely seen before. Given its growing influence, it made perfect sense to introduce a dedicated ‘From the Air’ subcategory,” explained Leo.
#6 "Behind The City" By Shyjith Kannur, Uae
Mangroves and Landscapes, Highly commended, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#7 Broken Mangrove By Dhany Darmansyah Saragih, Indonesia
Mangroves and Threats, Runner up, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
As for the impact, we asked Leo to share what he hopes the expanded format and global reach of the Awards will bring to mangrove conservation in 2025.
He commented: “The first step in conservation is fostering appreciation. By showcasing powerful, thought-provoking images, we aim to inspire action and deepen public engagement. Expanding our reach through partnerships with photographers and conservation organizations ensures these images reach more people. Our first Mangrove Photography Awards exhibition in Abu Dhabi, attracting 40,000 visitors, including 60 educational tour groups, is a testament to how photography can raise awareness and drive meaningful change.”
#8 "Eye Contact" By Katanyou Wuttichaitanakorn, Thailand
Young Mangrove Photographer of the Year, Winner, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#9 "Séphora The Clam Diver" By Kris Pannecoucke, Democratic Republic Of The Congo
Mangroves and People, Winner, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
Leo also gave advice for first-time entrants or amateur photographers.
“Spend time in a mangrove ecosystem and take the time to truly observe—the patterns in the water, the plants shaping the landscape, the wildlife that thrives there, and the people who depend on it. Understanding these elements will help you capture images that tell a deeper story.
Photography isn’t just about technical skill, it’s about showing something new and making others care as much as you do. You don’t need expensive equipment—what matters most is your perspective and connection to your subject. Let that passion guide your work, and your images will speak for themselves.”
#10 "Mud Bath Ritual" By Johannes Panji Christo, Indonesia
Mangroves and People, Winner, 2024.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#11 "Sinking Sundarbans" By Supratim Bhattacharjee, India
Mangrove Photographer of the Year 2024.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
Lastly, Leo added: “If you’re passionate about mangroves and photography, we’d love to hear from you! Explore more about mangrove conservation and restoration through the Mangrove Action Project, and we look forward to seeing your submissions soon.
Entries close on 19 May.
If you care about mangroves and want to participate, this is your chance!”
#12 "Dawn’s Serenade" By Aaron Ruy G. Musa, Philippines
Mangroves and Landscape, Highly commended, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#13 "Mangrove Hunter" By Samuel Bloch, India
Mangroves and Wildlife, Highly commended, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#14 "Friends At The Edge" By Jillian Morris, Bahamas
Mangroves and Underwater, Highly commended, 2024.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#15 "Mangrove Crab Fisher" By Enrico Marone, Brazil
Overall Winner, 2019.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#16 "Mangroves At Dawn" By Melodi Roberts, USA
Mangroves and Landscape, Runner up, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#17 "Dreamlife Of Mangroves" By Melodi Roberts, USA
Mangroves and Landscapes, Runner up, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#18 "Gathering" By Shyjith Onden Cheriyath, Uae
Mangroves and Wildlife, Highly commended, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#19 "Hope" By Sergio Izquierdo, Guatemala
Mangroves and People, Highly commended, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#20 "Livelihood" By Rajesh Dhar, India
Mangroves and Humans, Highly commended, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#21 "Mud-Ring Feeding" By Mark Ian Cook, USA
Mangroves and Wildlife, Winner, 2024.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#22 "A Rare And Occasional Encounter" By Lorenzo Mittiga, Netherlands Antilles
Mangroves and Underwater, Runner up, 2021.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#23 "Flamingo" By Lorenzo Mittiga, Netherlands Antilles
Mangroves and Wildlife, Highly commended, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#24 Foraging Bottlenose Dolphins By Mark Ian Cook, Us
Mangroves and Wildlife, Highly commended, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#25 "The Window View - A Coexistence" By Sreekumar Krishnan, India
Mangroves and Threats, Highly commended, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#26 "Nature And Space" By Jeff Thamert, USA
Mangroves and Threats, Runner up, 2024.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#27 "Symbiosis" By Giacomo D'orlando, Indonesia
Mangroves and Conservation Stories, Winner, 2024.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#28 "Honey Hunters" By Muhammad Mostafigur Rahman, Bangladesh
Mangroves and Humans, Winner, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#29 "Source Of Little Water" By Meharab Hossain, Bangladesh
Mangroves and Conservation, Highly commended, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#30 "To Be Continuing" By Alex Cao, Vietnam
Mangroves and Landscapes, Highly commended, 2022.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
#31 "Attachment" By Puttarat Horwang, Indonesia
Mangroves and Underwater, Highly commended, 2023.
Image credits: mangroveactionproject
