Cuba's IMASUB Underwater Photography Competition to take place in May 2011

Underwater photographers and photo-enthusiast scuba diving in Cuba will have the chance to enter the IMASUB International Underwater Photography Competition 2011 which will take place between 9th May and 15th May this year.

The competition is open to photographers from any country and will take place in the Guanahacabibes National Park which is situated on the westernmost point of Caribbean island, Cuba.

Photographers will be able to capture the beautiful images while scuba diving in Cuba and enter them into several of the competition's categories which include Fish, Scenery, Macro, and Scenery with Model.

The rules state that each participant can enter up to three images per category; 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 of 250 photographs can be taken in total; all images must not be modified or manipulated; and competitors must be certified with diving clubs which are associated with the RSTC and provide a valid medical certificate.

Thirteen prizes will awarded to participating photographers with three prizes within each category and an overall prize for the best and most creative photograph. The overall winner of the 2011 International Underwater Photography Competition will win an original work by renowned Cuban artist, Alexys Leyva-Kcho and a three-night half board holiday for two at the Maria La Gorda which includes five dives per person.

The Guanahacabibes National Park is a popular destination for scuba diving holidays and features crystal clear warm waters and a thriving marine ecosystem made up of colourful coral, barracudas, lobsters, parrot fish, crabs, green morays, angel sharks, red snappers, groupers and red porgies. One of the key elements which makes the diving site so unique are the dark blue coloured cliffs and the abundance of caves, winding tunnels and caverns.