Eighth Annual Maritime Themed Photographic Competition Open to All in UK Aged Over 16

UK – National maritime charity, the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society which supports fishermen, merchant mariners and their dependants who are suffering financial hardship, is once again on the lookout for photographers to submit their favourite images of the sea, for its eighth annual competition honouring Britain's proud maritime heritage.

The competition, which launched on Wednesday 1 July 2020, encourages photographers of all abilities to submit pictures that capture the essence of the UK’s enduring connection with the sea, including its merchant ships, fishermen, coast, harbours and ports. The deadline for entries is 31st August 2020.

Given the impact of coronavirus on the nation’s travel plans, the charity is encouraging people to look back through their photo albums, as well as those taken more recently, as all will be accepted as valid entries and could land the prize of £500 worth of photographic equipment vouchers. In addition to beautiful seascapes and coastal images, the charity is particularly interested in receiving pictures of people enjoying leisure activities, either on the sea or around the coastline.

The competition, supported by The Fishmongers’ Company, will once again be judged by a prestigious panel of experts, including Sunday Times Picture Editor, Ray Wells, Picture Editor of the i, Sophie Batterbury and the Chief Executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, Capt. Justin Osmond RN. On the launch of the annual competition, Captain Justin said:

“Whilst 2020 has brought an enormous challenge to all of our lives, we are pleased to be able to launch our eighth annual maritime photography competition and provide some summer excitement to photographers across the UK.

“Given the current circumstances, we are keen to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enter the competition, regardless of whether they have been able to take photographs at the coast this year or not, and want any images taken this year to be done so responsibly and in line with government guidance.

“The competition allows us to showcase our proud maritime history and support the industry that we are so reliant on, which has been absolutely critical to the nation over the past few months. As such, we encourage everyone, regardless of experience or ability to get involved.”

To enter the competition, individuals can submit their photographs through the dedicated form on the Society’s website, or via email, post or the Society’s Facebook or Twitter channels. Full details of the rules can be seen on the website but include:

• Entrants must state whether they are a professional or amateur photographer upon entry
• All images submitted must be taken within current UK Covid-19 government guidelines
• By entering the competition, you give permission for your images to be recreated by the Charity, competition sponsors and any media partner free of charge
• This competition is open to residents of the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland aged 16 years or over

Photo : 2019 winner of the Coastal Views award - Mark Dobson – Wild Seas.