Ocean Exploration 2020: Photo Contest Rules
We asked you to help us get inspired about ocean exploration by celebrating the beauty and wonder of the ocean in pictures by submitting your best ocean photos for a chance to win the Ocean Exploration 2020 Photo Contest. We are proud to announce the finalists from each category:
Contest Rules:
Photos will be accepted for the following categories:
- Explorers: Share photos of you and others exploring and enjoying the ocean, be it while diving, snorkeling, kayaking, boating, etc.
- Marine Life: Capture shots of life in the ocean, from mammals, fish, and even plants to the weird and wonderful spineless critters that call the ocean home.
- Scenic Seascapes: Inspire us with scenic vistas across the great expanse of our ocean and coasts—sunsets and sunrises, beaches, endless stretches of open water, and more.
- Technology and Navigation: Enter snapshots of the ships, tools, and technologies that you use to explore and enjoy our ocean.
Why?
In July, 100 of the top ocean explorers will gather at Ocean Exploration 2020: A National Forum to shape our nation’s ocean exploration program and to develop a strategy for getting to that program. In addition to invited attendees, we will be asking the online community (including YOU!) for input as well.
We are looking for photos that, as part of Ocean Exploration 2020, will help us raise awareness about the value of our ocean and the importance in exploring and understanding this largely unknown frontier.
Who’s Eligible to Enter?
- Photographers at least 13 years of age or older as of April 22, 2013.
- Amateur photographers (less than 20% of your total income is from photography).
- You must take photographs and you must have the rights to the photo (including permission/model release for anyone identifiably pictured).
What Do I Win?
- Winning photos will be featured on the Ocean Exploration 2020 website and in the final plan for a national ocean exploration program.
- Winning photos will be printed and displayed at the Aquarium of the Pacific during the July 19-21 event.
- Winners will receive an “Ocean Exploration 2020” swag bag.
When?
- Contest entries will be accepted from April 22, 2013, to May 3, 2013.
- Winners will be announced on World Ocean Day, June 8, 2013, on the Aquarium’s website and via related social media channels.
How are Photos Judged?
Photos will be judged on the following criteria:
- originality,
- artistic composition,
- technical quality
- photographic technique, and
- whether the photograph showcases the value and wonder of our ocean.
A jury comprised of Michael T. Jones (the brains behind Google Earth), NOAA, and the Aquarium of the Pacific staff will select one winner per category. Winners will be notified via email by June 7, 2013.
