MTS ROV Photo Challenge -

In the Field

MTS ROV Photo Challenge

Launched in 2025 by the MTS ROV Committee, this annual challenge is open to everyone in the ROV community and is about celebrating the real-world work of ROVs – the grit, innovation, and teamwork that drive marine technology forward. Whether your ROV is exploring offshore depths, being tested in a lab, or being built from scratch by a student team, we want to spotlight the moments that reflect the current state of ROV technology and capture the essence of this rapidly evolving industry.

Why Enter? Get Recognized. Get Seen.

Industry Showcase

Top 12 photos will be displayed at Underwater Intervention on exhibit floor.

Global Recognition

Top three photos will gain visibility across MTS platforms and publications.

Expanded Visibility

Winning photos and stories will be highlighted across MTS social media, newsletters, and digital campaigns.

Ocean Robotics Feature

Top entries will be featured in the Ocean Robotics Planet Newsletter.

Website Spotlight

Winning photos and stories will be featured on the MTS and MATE ROV websites.

Exclusive Prizes

Top three winners will receive exclusive MTS ROV Committee pens.

Build Your Visibility

Get your name and work in front of professionals across the global marine technology community.

Bonus: Membership

A non-member winner may receive a complimentary one-year MTS membership.

How to Enter

Ready to show us your best shot? By entering, you grant MTS permission to use your photos in future web, social, print, and other communications. Photo credit will be provided when possible but is not guaranteed.

01 — Choose Your Best Shots

Select up to three original, high-resolution photos taken within the last year. JPEG, PNG, or TIFF files accepted; maximum 20MB each.

02 — Tell Us the Story

A great photo is even more powerful with context. Include a title, caption, and date taken. Tell us the when, where, what, and who.

03 — Submit Your Entry

Upload your photos and details through the Photo Challenge Submission Form. Larger files may be shared via a link if needed.

Timeline: 2026 Key Dates

Long-Term Impact: Winning photos won't just be celebrated once—they'll become part of the MTS visual library and will continue to be highlighted across MTS pulications, social media, and digital campaigns for years to come, showcasing your contribution to the ROVcommunity well beyond the challenge.

Judging & Awards

How Winners Are Chosen

Entries will be evaluated by a panel of judges from the MTS ROV Committee, MTS leadership, and other invited industry experts.
Photos will be scored based on visual impact, storytelling, creativity, and alignment with the ROV theme using the official criteria and scoring rubric.
Final winners will be determined by an Industry Choice vote.

What is Industry Choice?

The Industry Choice Award allows the broader ROV community to have a voice in selecting the winners.

At Underwater Intervention 2026, the Top 12 finalist photos will be on display at the MTS booth.
Event attendees, exhibitors, and industry professionals will have the chance to review the finalists and cast their vote for the photo that best represents the innovation and impact of ROV technology.

NOTE: Even if you don't enter the challenge, stop by the MTS booth at UI 2026 and make your voice heard by voting for your favorite shot!

People's Choice on Social Media

After UI 2026, the Top 12 finalist photos will also go head-to-head in a social media vote across MTS platforms. The People's Choice Award will go to the photo that earns the most engagement and votes from the community online.

This is your chance to rally your network and get your photo recognized by the global ROV community!

Follow & Get Inspired

Follow MTS on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to see featured entries, get inspired, and stay updated. #MTSROVLife

Questions? Reach Out.

Contact MTS ROV Committee Vice-Chair: Nancy Summers, nsummers@oceaneering.net

MATE ROV Competition

Ocean Enterprise Initiative

Ocean Exchange

In the Field