Remove the tails from the shrimp, if desired. Place in a bowl and add the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. Toss to combine and set aside.
In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the celery, pepper, and onion. Sauté until tender, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté 1 minute more.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook about 20 minutes.
Add the shrimp to the pot and stir to combine. Cook another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Notes
Cajun seasoning typically has a lot of salt, so do not add salt to the Shrimp Creole until it is finished and you've tasted it.