Aquarium of the Bay Launches 'It's a Snap! 3' Photo Competition

SAN FRANCISCO, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Proving that a lifetime membership and $200 are only a click away, Aquarium of the Bay is launching its third annual "It's a Snap!" photo competition.  Between now and July 11, amateur photographers are encouraged to enter their snapshots of the Aquarium's animals and exhibitions into the competition.  

Amateur photographers can submit up to four photographs each, until midnight on Sunday, July 11.  A panel of Aquarium judges will select 10 finalists that will be available for public voting at www.aquariumofthebay.org/contest.aspx from July 12 - 25.   Winners will be announced on July 27, 2010.  

The Grand Prize winner will be awarded $200, plus a lifetime membership to Aquarium of the Bay.  Two runners up will receive lifetime Aquarium memberships, opening the door to years of undersea explorations and endless photo opportunities.  All applicants will receive a complimentary Aquarium ticket.  Photos will also be highlighted on the Aquarium's website and August e-newsletter.  Previous competitors' photos have adorned Aquarium advertisements, postcards and other materials.  

With more than 20,000 animals, there is no shortage of animal "muses" at the Aquarium.  However, Aquarium officials are encouraging entrants to steer clear of the camera-hogging jellies and sea stars, and test their skills with larger animals such as "Bubbette," the 300-pound Giant Sea Bass and shark species including the beautiful Soupfin; and iconic exhibits, including the tunnels and touch pools.  Flash photography cannot be used on the Giant Pacific Octopus.

Applicants must upload images to a public photo sharing site, and tag photos with "Aquarium of the Bay Photo Competition."  Applicants are encouraged to share photos in the Aquarium's Flickr group at www.flickr.com/groups/aquariumofthebay/.  

The competition is open to all amateur photographers, with photos taken within the Aquarium during the past six months.  Additional details are available at www.aquariumofthebay.org/contest.aspx.

About Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit marine nature center affiliated with The Bay Institute.  The Aquarium is dedicated to creating experiences that inspire conservation of San Francisco Bay and its watershed. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and certified as a Green Business by the city of San Francisco. Additional information on Aquarium of the Bay is available at www.aquariumofthebay.org, and on The Bay Institute at www.bay.org.

SOURCE Aquarium of the Bay