The California Coastal Commission has announced the 12th annual Amateur Coastal Photography Competition.

All entries must be postmarked by Tues., Aug. 31.

Entrants can submit photos of the scenic coast, ways people use the coast and coastal wildlife. A separate humor category is available for the above subjects.

Plants and animals photographed should be native species in their natural setting. Photos must be taken from a public place and should be in color. Photos of marine mammals must be taken from 50 yards away or more.

The contest is open to amateur photographers only, those who earn less than 50 percent of their income from photography.

Prizes will consist of a twonight stay in a Southern California hotel and will be awarded for first, second and third place, with a special award for the best humorous photo.

For entry guidelines, call (800) 262-7848, e-mail coast4u @coastal.ca.gov or go to www.coastforyou.org.

For printed guidelines, write to Californian Coastal Commission Photo Contest, 45 Fremont St., Ste. 2000, San Francisco, CA 94105.