SeaWeb has announced that it is now accepting entries for the Marine Photobanks fourth-annual Ocean in Focus Conservation Photo Contest. The competition attempts to raise public awareness of the threats facing the marine environment. Dawn M. Martin, President of SeaWeb asserts that:

“Compelling images illustrating both the grandeur and the threats to the ocean can be the spark that inspires action.”

The competition is open until 30 September, and the winners will be announced in the fall.

OCEAN CONSERVATION PHOTO CONTEST FOCUSES ON HUMAN IMPACTS.

Scuba divers, photographers and ocean enthusiasts called on to help conserve our ocean through imagery.

Silver Spring, MD – SeaWeb’s Marine Photobank fourth-annual Ocean in Focus Conservation Photo Contest is now open and accepting photo entries in an effort to raise awareness of the myriad threats facing marine species, ecosystems and resources. Photos should be submitted to marinephotobank.com no later than September 30. The winners will be announced this fall.

“Compelling images illustrating both the grandeur and the threats to the ocean can be the spark that inspires action,” said Dawn M. Martin, President of SeaWeb. “This internationally renown photo contest inspires photographers of all levels to share their stories of the ocean environment to help us envision a healthier ocean.”

Photographers of all backgrounds—including conservationists, scientists, divers, travelers and students—and at all skill levels, ranging from amateur to professional, are encouraged to compete for the Grand Prize package: a trip for two aboard the National Geographic Endeavor to the Galapagos Islands courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions. Lindblad Expeditions’ alliance with National Geographic ensures you explore it with the finest expedition team. Join them on hikes, Zodiac rides, or the ship’s deck during a thrilling wildlife encounter. Swim and snorkel with sea lions, penguins and sea turtles; search the waters for dolphins and whales. Discover nature it its purest form on one of the most significant travel experiences of your life.

The First Prize – Runner Up will win an Oceanview Bure for 7 nights for one at Matava – Fiji’s Premier Eco Adventure Resort, including lots of diving, a traditional Lovo Feast and Kava ceremony and more. There will also be three runner-up prize packages including a prize for the most hopeful, inspiring image that best illustrates our capacity to improve and conserve marine species or resources.

The Marine Photobank aims to inspire photographers to turn their lenses in a different direction—one that informs and inspires positive action that will help conserve marine species and their environments. Beautiful ocean photography has the power to inspire awe and raise awareness, but truly impactful photography will shine a light on the dark truths of human impact to the ocean and has the power to affect change.

There is reason to be hopeful for the coming decade as more marine reserves are being established around the world, consumers begin to take a harder look at their seafood choices, and the ocean proves its resilience in the face of a massive oil disaster. However, many challenges lie ahead for the ocean and it will take even more dedication to turn the tide on our changing seas.

Entrants are asked to submit their most captivating contest photos at marinephotobank.com before September 30. Winners will be announced this fall.

The Marine Photobank, a project of SeaWeb, encourages ocean conservation by collecting and providing compelling, high quality marine photos, images and graphics at no cost for noncommercial use as well as for media use under special terms. The Marine Photobank aims to illuminate pressing marine issues and human impacts on the ocean through imagery. www.marinephotobank.org

SeaWeb is the only international, nonprofit organization exclusively dedicated to strategically communicating about ocean issues. We transform knowledge into action by shining a spotlight on workable, science-based solutions to the most serious threats facing the ocean, such as climate change, pollution and depletion of marine life. We work collaboratively with targeted sectors to encourage market solutions, policies and behaviors that result in a healthy, thriving ocean. By informing and empowering diverse ocean voices and conservation champions, SeaWeb is creating a culture of ocean conservation.