The AquaShots Underwater Photo Contest is an annual activity that aims to showcase the beauty and diversity of undersea life in the Davao Gulf. (Recently, the Gulf was declared as a priority area for marine biodiversity protection.) It is a project of the Davao Reef Divers Club.
A few years ago, the Davao Reef Divers Club began holding the AquaShots contest to help keep interest in scuba diving alive. While scuba diving in itself is a worthwhile activity, underwater photography provides divers with an added challenge. Taking pictures underwater is a lot different than on land: not only are you a photographer (who has to know about proper white balance, etc.), but also a certified scuba diver (who has to constantly keep safe diving practices in mind, among other things).
While AquaShots is participated in by divers and snorkeling enthusiasts, the output — pictures of tropical fish, colorful sea slugs, coral, and more — is for everybody’s enjoyment. It is hoped by the Davao Reef Divers Club that, by sharing what they see and experience under the sea, everyone who sees their photographs will come to appreciate the splendor of the seas. And, hopefully, join in the effort to keep Davao Gulf clean and healthy.
Tropical bottletail squid
The Davao Gulf is home to thousands of species of marine life. There are squids that are no bigger than your pinky fingernail, and there are whales as big as container vans. Hard and soft coral varieties are in abundance all over the gulf. Through AquaShots, every Dabawenyo has a chance to see these wonders.
AquaShots 2011, which runs from 19 to 21 November at the Gaisano Mall of Davao, features three categories: Underwater Macro, Underwater Wide, and Topside. With over 100 entries in this year’s contest, it is by far the largest turnout to date. Winners will be recognized during the Club’s Christmas Party next month.
If you’d like to join the Davao Reef Divers Club, call 300-1092 and talk to John or Dick.
