Competition Categories
Eight specialized categories designed to showcase the incredible diversity of underwater macro photography
Category Requirements
- Magnification range between 1:1 and 1:4 ratio
- Clear focus on subject with visible fine details
- Subject size typically 1-5cm for optimal framing
- Sharp focus on critical features (rhinophores, eyes, texture, patterns)
Photography Tips
- Use proper working distance for subject comfort
- Balance depth of field with subject isolation
- Capture Natural behavior is an advantage
Example Subjects:
Shrimp, Nudibranchs, Octopus, Crabs, Small Fish
Category Requirements
- Magnification greater than 1:1 (typically 2:1 to 5:1)
- Exceptional focus on minute details and textures
- Subject features measured in millimeters
- Technical excellence in lighting and sharpness essential
Photography Tips
- Use specialized super macro lenses or diopters
- Minimal depth of field requires precise focus
- Double Strobes or Snoot help to isolate the subject
Example Subjects:
Pygmy seahorses, Hairy Shrimp, Lady Bugs, Skeleton Shrimp, Costasiella, Trapania...
Category Requirements
- Subject must be clearly identifiable as a nudibranch or sea slug species
- Focus on intricate details: Rhinophores, gills, ceratas and textures
- Behavioral shots encouraged (feeding, mating, egg laying)
- Scientific identification appreciated but not required
Photography Tips
- Use gentle lighting to avoid startling the subject
- Focus on the rhinophores and gill structures
- Capture the unique textures and patterns
Example Subjects:
Phyllodesmium, Nembrotha, Doto, Elysia species
Category Requirements
- Primary subject must be a crustacean (crab, shrimp, Squat lobster, etc.)
- Emphasize unique features like eyes antenna, camouflage
- Behavioral shots are the must
Photography Tips
- Capture Sharp eyes and antennae
- Look for symbiotic relationships
- Use lighting to highlight textural details
- Focus on unique behavioral moments
Example Subjects:
Snapping Shrimp, Zebra Crab, Emperor or Donald duck Shrimp...
Category Requirements
- Behavioral moment must be primary focus
- Detailed caption explaining the behavior observed
- Double behaviour is the must
Photography Tips
- Be patient and observe before shooting
- Research animal behaviors beforehand
- Capture the decisive moment
- Document context and environment
Example Subjects:
Cleaning stations, Feeding, Mating, Fighting for territory...
Category Requirements
- Innovative or creative use of lighting as primary focus
- Lighting must enhance the subject, not overpower it
- Technical description of lighting setup required
- Creative interpretation encouraged
Photography Tips
- Experiment with backlight and Snoot lighting
- Use multiple light sources creatively
- Consider natural light interactions
- Document your lighting setup for judges
Example Subjects:
Silhouettes, Backlight, Creative Background, Light patterns...
Category Requirements
- Subject must be scientifically documented as rare or uncommon
- You've been hunting this creature for months, maybe even years. Tell the judges your story.
- Perhaps you encountered this creature by pure chance. Tell the judges how you made an exceptional shot.
Photography Tips
- Research rare species in your dive location
- Document habitat and environmental context
- Capture multiple angles when possible
- Include scale reference if appropriate
Example Subjects:
Cyerce Kikotarobabaï, Cyerce Katiae, Leopard Shrimp, Hairy Octopus, Honeycomb Frogfish...
Category Requirements
- Must be captured during night diving in open water or under bonfire
- Subject should be pelagic or attracted to night lights
- Creative composition in the void of darkness
- Technical excellence in challenging conditions essential
Photography Tips
- Master buoyancy control in open water
- Use snoot or focused lighting for dramatic effect
- Anticipate subject movement in 3D space
- Capture larval stages and transparent creatures
Example Subjects:
Paper nautilus, Blanket Octopus, Diamond Squid, larvae...
How Categories Are Judged
Lighting, Focus & Composition (Technicality)
Sharpness/focus, Underwater lighting mastery, Strong composition, Clean image, Perfect exposure
Originality
Unique perspective, Fresh approach, Not copying famous shots, Innovative technique, Rare documentation
Creativity
Artistic vision, Creative lighting use, Unique framing, Innovative approach, Artistic enhancement
Difficulty
Subject difficulty (skittish/rare species), Equipment mastery, Patience required, Technical challenge
Wow Factor
Immediate visual impact, Emotional response, "How did they do that?" moment, Memorable images
Choose Your Category
Select the categories that best represents your image's
Meet Requirements
Ensure your image meets all the specific rules requirements
Submit & Compete
Upload your image with detailed information and compete for category-specific prizes
Ready to Choose Your Category?
Select the category that best showcases your underwater macro photography skills