The show took place at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL.

The Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL.

The Our World Underwater international underwater photography and video competition, now in its 12th year, has become one of the biggest and most respected photography competitions in the world. The competition not only celebrates the beauty of the ocean, but the art of underwater photography as well.

The OWU competition is part of a unique series that, together with the DEEP Indonesia competition, comprises the largest and most prestigous underwater photography competition. Winners also take pride in being named one of the world’s best underwater photographers, and their images will be exposed to millions of readers of dive, travel and photography magazines and websites worldwide. Esteemed judges this year include renowned professional underwater photographers David Doubilet, Alex Mustard and Keri Wilk, and Scuba Diver AustralAsia and Asian Diver magazine editor Alice Grainger.

Underwater photographers of all levels, from novice to professionals, will compete in what has become the “Superbowl” of international underwater imagery events. Along with thousands in prizes of photo gear and world class trips, the Best of Show will receive a cash prize of $1,000!

This unique competition series continues to be hosted by its founders, the popular underwater photography websites DivePhotoGuide.com and Wetpixel.com. The competition is held in association with the Our World Underwater dive expo in Chicago.

** Deadline for submissions: February 4th, 2017 **

Winners will be announced live on stage during the Our World Underwater film festival in Chicago, revealed on UnderwaterCompetition.com, and published by supporting media partners worldwide shortly thereafter. Winning videos will be broadcast as episodes of the iTunes-featured DiveFilm Podcast Video.

 The entry fees are $10 per image or video entered. As with all UnderwaterCompetition.com events, 15% of entry proceeds will be donated to marine conservation efforts.