Best Underwater Photography Books of 2026

Clark Little: The Art of Waves is a remarkable collection of over 150 stunning photographs of waves captured by surfer and photographer, Clark Little. This book offers a rare and dangerous perspective of waves from the inside out, showcasing Little's ability to capture the perfect shot. The book includes Little's stories and insights throughout, as well as essays by journalist Jamie Brisick on how Clark gets the shot, how waves are created, swimming with sharks, and more. With a foreword by world surfing champion Kelly Slater, this book is a must-have for water lovers, surfers, nature seekers, art enthusiasts, and tropical island travelers around the world.

Coastlines: At the Water's Edge is a stunning photography collection of the world's most beautiful waterways and coastlines, curated by Tiny Atlas Quarterly. From tropical beaches in Hawai'i to icy fjords in Greenland, the book takes readers on a visual journey through some of the world's most beloved places and precious habitats. With hundreds of awe-inspiring photos and curated travel information, Coastlines is a treasure trove for water lovers, beach bums, and armchair travelers alike. The book is a reminder of the power and beauty of water, and the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations.

The Life & Love of the Sea is a stunning photography book that showcases the ocean's beauty and diversity. From dramatic coastlines to barrier reefs and island chains, readers will be taken on a visual journey through the depths of the sea. The book features amazing images of various marine creatures, from whales and manta rays to seals and schools of fish. The bonus footage available through a QR code adds to the experience, making it even more engaging. Overall, this book is a must-read for landscape photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the wonders of the ocean.

Shapeshifters: The Wondrous World of Jellyfish is a mesmerizing collection of photographs and expert commentary that unveils the mysteries of these ancient creatures. Dr. Lisa-ann Gershwin, a renowned jellyfish expert, showcases 100 species of jellyfish, from the ubiquitous Aurelia to the enigmatic Velella. The book is visually stunning, and the facts about these fascinating marine life-forms are astounding. Some jellyfish are delicate, while others are tenacious and biologically immortal. Some are splendid, some strange, some poisonous, some deadly. The author's commentary throughout the book invites readers into the wondrous world of jellyfish. Overall, this book is an excellent addition to any Plant & Animal Photography Books enthusiast's collection.

The Clark Little: The Art of Waves Puzzle is a remarkable 1000-piece puzzle that showcases the breathtaking beauty of a breaking wave. The puzzle features an awe-inspiring photograph from critically acclaimed photographer Clark Little, who captures the waves from the inside out. The finished size of 20 x 27 inches makes it perfect for hours of puzzling. Little's unique ability to get the perfect shot and live to share it has made him one of the most recognizable wave photographers in the world. This puzzle is a must-have for landscape photography enthusiasts and puzzle lovers alike.

This book of underwater photography by Brian Skerry offers stunning insights into the lives of whales, showcasing their complex societies and cultural elements. The book features arresting images of these majestic creatures and documents their unique dialects, matrilineal societies, and organized social customs like singing contests. Skerry's work is an eye-opener and will make readers appreciate the intelligence and beauty of these creatures. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about the world's largest mammals and their importance to our planet.

Underwater Dogs is a stunning collection of more than eighty vibrant underwater photographs of dogs captured by award-winning pet photographer Seth Casteel. The photographs showcase the distinct personalities of different dog breeds, as they leap, splash, and dive in pursuit of toys beneath the water's surface. The book has been featured in several holiday gift guides, and its arresting portraits have become a global phenomenon. The photographs are both startling and hilarious, revealing the primal and energetic nature of our beloved canine companions. Underwater Dogs is a great coffee table book for dog lovers, and its unique perspective on our furry friends is sure to delight readers of all ages.

Silent Kingdom: A World Beneath the Waves is a stunning collection of black-and-white underwater photography by Christian Vizl. Through his masterful control of light and shadow, Vizl captures the grace and beauty of aquatic creatures and marine seascapes in a way that few have ever seen. The book is not only a celebration of the ocean's beauty but also a call to action to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Winner of the 2019 Sony World Photography Awards, Natural World & Wildlife category, and the Premier Print Award - 2019 Prize for Special Innovation in Printing, Silent Kingdom is a must-have for any nature photography enthusiast.

The World Beneath is a stunning book that takes readers on a journey to discover the fascinating sea creatures and coral reefs that exist beneath the ocean's surface. With over 300 colorful photos and engaging text from a leading marine biologist and underwater photographer, readers will be amazed by the diversity of life found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. The book provides compelling insight into the naming process, the challenges facing sea creatures, and how we can help protect them. The World Beneath is a must-read for anyone interested in marine biology or simply curious about the wonders of the ocean.

Underwater Wild takes readers on an immersive journey into the underwater world that inspired the Academy Award-winning documentary, My Octopus Teacher. The book showcases the heart-wrenching stories of the divers and the marine science behind the stunning photos. From tracking sea hares to witnessing strange new behaviors never before documented in marine biology, the book is a captivating call to take time to observe and live in the moment. This is a truly extraordinary glimpse into a realm few would otherwise see, and it will leave naturalists of the ocean and land alike in awe.