2009 Underwater Photography Contest Winners Announced

Photo by: Marchione Giacomo

Virginia Key, Fla. — In its fifth annual Underwater Photography Contest, the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science attracted a diverse array of national and international photographic talent representing 23 countries and 918 images which competed in one of three categories: “wide angle,” “macro,” and “fish or marine animal portrait.” Recognition was also given to the best among University of Miami student entries.

Winning images were chosen via anonymous judging by a panel of experts in underwater photography and fine arts, including underwater photographers Myron and Nicole Wang, wildlife photographer Tim Calver, and Wilfredo Lee from the Associated Press. The competition is open to all amateur photographers who earn no more than 20 percent of their income from their photography. Awards included a weeklong trip with Blackbeard’s Cruises and cash prizes.

The Best Overall was an image submitted by Marchione Giacomo from Italy.  The photograph depicts two Boxer crabs (Lybia tasselata) with sea anemones in each claw. When threatened Boxer crabs wave the stinging tentacles in defense against predators.  The image was shot in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.  Other winners, listed by category, include:

Macro
1^st   Vickie Coker, Austin, Texas
2^nd  Michael Rosenfeld, Stamford, Connecticut
3^rd  Judy Townsend, Boca Raton, Florida

Fish or Marine Animal Portrait
1^st   Steven Kovacs, Clewiston, Florida
2^nd  Jerry Kane, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
3^rd  Steffen Binke, Mooroobool, Australia

Wide-Angle
1^st  Evan D’Alessandro, Miami, Florida
2^nd  Alessio Viora, Borgomanero, Italy
3^rd  Thomas Carey, Kailua-Kona , Hawaii

Student
1^st  Neil Hammerschlag, Miami, Florida
2^nd  Evan D’Alessandro, Miami, Florida
3^rd  Neil Hammerschlag, Miami, Florida

To see all of the winning photos, please visit http://rsmas.miami.edu/support/advancement/uw-2009/uw-2009-winners.html

About the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School
Founded in the 1940’s, the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science has grown into one of the world’s premier marine and atmospheric research institutions. Offering dynamic interdisciplinary academics, the Rosenstiel School is dedicated to helping communities to better understand the planet, participating in the establishment of environmental policies, and aiding in the improvement of society and quality of life.  For more information, please visit www.rsmas.miami.edu

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