The 10 best shots from the Australian Surf Photo of the Year 2025

Stuart Gibson: the Australian photographer has two shots in the top 10 | Photo: Stuart Gibson

The top 10 finalists for Australian Surf Photo of the Year 2025 have been announced.

The annual Surf Photo of the Year initiative celebrates a single, compelling image that captures the essence of the sport.

The rules are simple.

The photo can be taken anywhere around the world by an Australian photographer in 2025, with a maximum of three submissions per lensperson.

The 2025 roster features shots from seasoned professionals and emerging surf photographers, each with a unique approach to translating the ocean’s energy and emotion into a single frame.

The narrowed-down collection showcases incredible surf backdrops, monster heavy waves, and the beauty and power of the ocean through both land and water-based imagery.

All entries are judged by a panel from Surfing Australia, Tracks Magazine, and independent judges.

The Top 10 photos will be displayed at the Australian Surfing Awards on December 6 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, culminating in the announcement of the winner that night.

Nevertheless, all images are already winners in themselves.

The Australian Surfing Awards have been celebrating and preserving the history of Australian surfing by honoring its great achievers in its Hall of Fame since 1985.

Individuals and organizations involved in surfing through events, business, media, photography, movies, clubs, travel, administration, or new initiatives are highlighted for their significant contribution to the development of the sport Down Under.