Get your entries in for BUIF 2009

Organisers are pleased to announce that camera manufacturer Canon is to continue with its overall sponsorship of the event, following the success of the competition in 2008.

Thousands of pounds worth of prizes will be available to winners and runners-up across the underwater stills and video photography categories. For the first time, the prestigious competition has introduced a stills and video category dedicated to British waters.

DIVE editor Simon Rogerson said: 'It is only right that BUIF should have a dedicated section for underwater photography taken in British waters. Last year, we received a lot of high-quality entries taken in Britain, so creating a special section of the festival was a natural step.

'Taking competition-quality photographs in British waters is a true test of diving skill - all the factors that make marine photography so challenging are magnified in UK conditions, but it also makes success all the more satisfying. With plans for a system of protected marine parks around the UK, there couldn't be a more important time for photographers to communicate the fragile beauty of our underwater environment. I'm really looking forward to seeing the entries.'

All shortlisted images and videos will be showcased at the DIVE FEST in Cornwall on 15-17 May 2009, while prints will go on a month-long public display at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth in the summer. Confirmed prize sponsors include Mares, Apeks, Sea & Sea, Scuba Travel and PADI...[Dive Magazine]