Dates
September 10-13, 2025
Location
Verzasca Valley, Ticino, Switzerland
© Swiss Masters Underwater Photography Competition
Description
From September 10-13, 2025, some of the world's best underwater photographers will compete in the Swiss Masters in Underwater Photography live underwater photo competition in the wild Verzasca River in the mountains of Ticino, Switzerland.
Surrounded by unique rock formations and crystal-clear water with visibility of up to 50 meters (164 feet), 10 photographers will battle it out with their models for victory in three categories: Wide Angle, Wide Angle with Model, and Creative (this category can include, but is not limited to, macro and split-shots).
The participating photographers include four world champions, several national champions, Alex Mustard, and award-winning photographer Steve Miller. Judges include Franco Banfi, Harald Slauschek, Ikelite President & CEO Jean Rydberg, and more.
About Live Photo Competitions
In a live competition, only photos taken underwater, without any computer editing, can be submitted to the jury for judging. This requires absolute mastery of the camera, photography techniques, and image composition.
Learn more: Fighting for the Best Picture: Live Underwater Photography Competitions
About Swiss Masters
The Swiss Masters in Underwater Photography is one of the most prestigious photo competitions in Europe. It is organized by the Swiss diving instructors' association CMAS Swiss Diving with around 40 assistants.
The aim of the event is to give a wide audience access to an underwater world with crystal-clear water, unspoiled nature, and breathtaking rock formations through masterful photos. The Swiss Masters in Underwater Photography shows how important it is to take great care of our waters and our drinking water.
Follow Swiss Masters
During the competition there will be regular live reports and an interesting panel discussion on topics related to underwater photography with some of the participants. Up-to-date information and panel discussions can be found on Instagram by following @photo.swissmasters and on the Swiss Masters' website.
Additional Viewing
Fighting for the Best Picture: Live Underwater Photography Competitions
River Junkie: Underwater Photography in the Freshwaters of Switzerland
Photo Contest Tips From a 100x Winner
Freshwater Underwater Camera Settings and Technique
Swiss Masters Underwater Photography Competition is organized by Fritz Liechti and the Swiss diving instructors' association CMAS Swiss Diving. Be sure to follow the competition on Instagram @photo.swissmasters to stay up-to-date on live event reports as well as intriguing panel discussions with photographers and judges. 
