DPG/Wetpixel Masters Underwater Imaging Competition
Type: Photography and video competition Frequency: Annual (since 2006) Location: Online submission; awards at Our World Underwater expo and DEEP Indonesia
History
The DPG/Wetpixel Masters (originally the Our World Underwater competition) was co-founded by Jason Heller (DivePhotoGuide) and Eric Cheng (Wetpixel) in 2006. Often described as the “World Championship” of underwater imaging, it is one of the most prestigious underwater photography and videography competitions.
The competition features ~10 categories including Traditional, Unrestricted, Macro, Wide Angle, Over-Under, Conservation, Portfolio, Compact, Cold Water, and Short Film. Prizes have been valued at $50,000–$85,000+ including dive trips and gear. Fifteen percent of proceeds are donated to marine conservation.
Celebrity judges have included David Doubilet, Alex Mustard, and Cor Bosman.
In 2025, DPG rebranded it as “DPG Masters,” dropping the Wetpixel name from the title.
Timeline
- 2006: Founded as Our World Underwater competition by Jason Heller and Eric Cheng
- 2000s–2010s: Grows to “World Championship” status; prizes reach $85,000+
- 2025: Rebranded as “DPG Masters” (Wetpixel name dropped)
References
Note: This page is based on general knowledge. Individual yearly results are documented in the timeline pages where source citations are available.