Details released of IMASUB International Underwater Photography Competition 2012

The second annual IMASUB International Underwater Photography Competition will be taking place from 11th to 17th June, 2012 in the Guanacahabibes National Park in Cuba.

Underwater photographers scuba diving in Cuba at the time of the event will be able to enter their images into thirteen categories in the competition and the grand prize for the overall winner includes a three-night stay for two at the renowned Maria La Gorda diving resort.

The competition is open to divers from all countries across the world and anyone can take part, from certified divers and underwater photograph aficionados planning to enter the contest during scuba diving holidays in Cuba, to professional underwater photographers wanting to try their luck and photographic expertise at the event.

Image by Christian Loader, on Flickr.

The Guanacahabibes National Park is located on the most western point of the island of Cuba and is home to beautiful natural landscapes comprising extensive areas of white sand, unique rock formations, dark blue coloured cliffs covered with Black Coral, and a variety of underwater caves, caverns and tunnels.

While scuba diving in Cuba at this magnificent national park, divers can swim alongside turtles, lobsters, green morays, angel sharks, crabs, barracudas, parrot fish, groupers, red porgies and many more beautiful sea creatures.

Image by WhitcombeRD, on Flickr.

At depths of 25 to 30 metres, divers will be able to enjoy visibility of up to 30 metres enabling them to capture the perfect underwater image for the competition.

There are thirteen prizes up for grabs and divers can submit their photographs to the competition's categories which include Fish, Scenery, Macro, and Scenery with Model. With three prizes available in each category, participants will have plenty of chances to show off their talent and the overall winner will receive a trophy and a three-night half board holiday for two people at the Maria La Gorda resort which includes five dives per person.

The competition rules state that each participant can enter up to three images per category and the details for the entry of the photos states that: all entrants will shoot photos in four diving sites; all digital cameras must be sealed; the use of lighting equipment, filters and mask is permitted; divers must use scuba diving equipment; a maximum 200 photographs can be taken in total; all images must not be modified or manipulated; and competitors must be certified with scuba diving clubs which are associated with the RSTC and provide a valid medical certificate; and registration must be submitted 30 days prior to the event.

Image by: Foto Bob, en Flickr.

Maria La Gorda is one of the most popular and best scuba diving destinations in Cuba due to its prime location in the Guanacahabibes peninsula in the Pinar del Rio province and its impressive international diving centre. There are over 50 diving sites to choose from in the area and divers can explore the colourful coral reefs, vertical walls and remains of Spanish galleons during scuba diving adventures.