 |
|
The nonnative lionfish (Pterois volitans) has increasingly shown up along the North Carolina coast.
|
The North Carolina Aquariums are looking for photos from amateur photographers.
Each year, the state’s three public aquariums conduct an underwater photography competition. The contest is designed especially for amateur and nonprofessional photographers. The aquariums stage the underwater photo contest to highlight the state’s rich aquatic resources, and to recognize excellence in amateur photography. The contest, now in its seventh year, is sponsored by East Carolina Bank.
Cash prizes are awarded in each of three categories: first place $500; second place $200; third place $100; honorable mention $50. Winners at all levels receive certificates. Winning photos will be published in the Summer 2008 edition of Aquarium News, the magazine of the North Carolina Aquarium Society.
Photographers may submit up to three prints or digital images in each of three categories:
1) Underwater Open, which may include wide-angle shots of shipwrecks or other North Carolina underwater scenes.
2) Underwater Animal Close-ups (macro).
3) Aquatic Life in the North Carolina Aquariums, which may feature any animal or group of animals displayed at any of the three North Carolina Aquariums.
Photos for the first two categories must be taken by divers in the waters off North Carolina, or within the state’s freshwater systems. The third category, “Aquatic Life in the North Carolina Aquariums,” allows nondivers to submit photos that capture the beauty and diversity of North Carolina’s aquatic life as displayed in exhibits at any of the three North Carolina Aquariums.
A panel of professional photographers and marine scientists will judge the photos for creativity, proficiency in photography skills and representation of North Carolina’s aquatic organisms and habitats.
No entry fee is required. Deadline for entries is Dec. 31, 2007. Winners will be announced on or before March 31, 2008.
Employees of the North Carolina Aquariums and their immediate families are not eligible. Photos taken by aquarium volunteers while on duty are not eligible. Photos will not be returned.
For full contest rules and to download the entry form, go here.