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About BSoUP

The British Society of Underwater Photographers (BSoUP) was formed in November 1967 by Peter Scoones and Colin Doeg.. Today it has over 250 members and is the largest underwater photographic society in Britain.

When it was formed, the prime objects of BSoUP were to create a forum for the exchange of ideas and information about underwater photography and put the activity on the map. Today, the Society is still dedicated to encouraging and developing underwater photography in all its aspects. Its members vary from divers who have just started to take underwater photographs to eminent professionals who lead the world.

Much of what an individual obtains from his or her membership of any organisation depends on what they want from that organisation.

In the case of BSoUP, the basic needs of members for information and contact with other enthusiasts is catered for in several ways.

Meetings

General meetings are held in London on the third Wednesday of every month. At these meetings a particular aspect of underwater photography is discussed to help the less experienced. Led by very experienced, award winning photographers, these discussions are followed by a competition, the subject of which varies from month to month. These competitions are open to all members and provide an opportunity for those competing to see how their work compares to that of others.

The main event of each meeting is a presentation by an individual or small group, either members or invited guest speakers. These presentations can range from underwater photographic expeditions to specialised techniques for certain types of underwater photography and talks by renowned personalities. Frequently the topics and/or speakers are considered of such interest that members and guests travel a hundred miles or more to attend. The meetings also provide an informal social environment where members can exchange ideas, sell unwanted equipment, arrange expeditions and enjoy a drink at the bar.

BSoUP Magazine 'in focus' - Speing 2010

Members Magazine

Additionally BSoUP publishes its own magazine 'in focus', which is sent to all members, every four months. This full colour newsletter includes news of meetings and competitions, items on underwater photography and expeditions and second hand equipment for sale.

Members Competitions

Some BSoUP members are particularly keen to participate in competitions. For all members there is a monthly competition from January through September (except March) on a particular theme which is judged by the audience present. In March a special Theme Portfolio competition is staged which is for members only. In October the Best of British Portfolio competition is held. For those who have yet to win a major prize, there is an annual Beginner's Portfolio competition, held in November, for a handsome Beginner's trophy kindly presented and sponsored by DIVER Magazine.

The year culminates in an Open Portfolio competition, which like the Beginner's competition, is open to members and non-members alike. In each of the portfolio competitions, six slides are projected simultaneously and like the monthly competitions are judged by the audience present.

Members Websites

BSoUP's website includes links to Members websites and each week one of these is highlighted in the News.

Members Forum

BSoUP has its own Member's Forum accessible only to members. This provides a means for the exchange of ideas and information about underwater photography.

Classifieds

BSoUP has its own classifieds page where BSoUP members may advertise items for sale or wanted.

BSoUP Online Shops

BSoUP has its own Online Shops, created using Amazon Associates aStore, where you can purchase books, DVD's and equipment securely via Amazon. There are Online Shops for France, Germany, UK and USA. Each purchase you make via a BSoUP Online Shop earns a small commission for the Society.

BSoUP is not a diving club in anyway but always strongly advises its members to ensure that they receive proper and adequate training in diving techniques before they take up underwater photography. In addition, BSoUP recommends all of its members to abide by the Code of Good Practice for Underwater Photography.