Partnered by Solitude World & Makrogehtimmer
Capture with purpose.
Compete with heart.
Real Focus.
This isn’t just about the perfect shot. It’s about honouring the moment, respecting the subject, and telling stories that matter.
The REAL FOCUS Underwater Photography Shootout is more than a competition—it’s a movement. A call to redefine how we interact with the underwater world, to shift the focus from manipulation to mindfulness, from performance to presence. Set against the rich backdrops of Anilao and Lembeh, this shootout celebrates not only the beauty of marine life, but the way we choose to witness and share it.
At its core, REAL FOCUS promotes ethical underwater photography—championing patience, precision, and presence over interference. Participants are invited to leave no trace, to resist the urge to stage or chase, and to rely instead on their skill, awareness, and respect for the creatures they photograph. This isn’t about orchestrating the moment—it’s about earning it.
For the first time, the competition also partners with marine biologist Dr David Harasti in a groundbreaking 3-year species study. Every image submitted—and every thoughtful frame shared beyond the competition—can contribute valuable scientific data on species, habitats, and conditions. It’s photography with real-world impact: where your lens becomes a tool for conservation, and every dive deepens our collective understanding of marine ecosystems.
Whether you’re an emerging photographer or a seasoned pro, this shootout invites you to grow, reflect, and be part of something larger. It’s about doing things better—for the ocean, for the animals, and for the future of our craft.
Rather than criticising unethical practices that have long plagued underwater macro photography, Solitude World and Makrogehtimmer aim to lead by example—by showing that integrity and artistry are not mutually exclusive. That the most moving images are often those left untouched.
This Year’s Theme: Breaking the Habit
Break the habit. Change the current.
This year’s theme challenges participants to document marine life as it truly is—wild, unbothered, and alive in its own rhythm. It’s a reminder that extraordinary imagery doesn’t require intrusion; it requires respect, restraint, and reverence.
REAL FOCUS welcomes all—amateur and professional photographers alike—to engage in a celebration of ethical storytelling. It’s an invitation to see deeper, shoot wiser, and share with care.