Professionals and amateurs alike will once again have the opportunity to showcase their talent during the annual competition, being held on Saturday, June 9, as part of the Auckland Festival of Photography.
The 24-hour photo contest encourages residents of all ages to grab their cameras and capture images that they believe encapsulate the unique perspectives offered by the city through their own eyes. "The competition gives photographers of all skill levels the opportunity to create a slice of life of their own region," says Julia Durkin, festival director. "It's a day of life in Auckland seen and told by participants.
"It's the biggest community photo shoot in the region," she adds.
Entries in the past have ranged from photographs taken by a 5-year-old, to people visiting family, and parents at their children's sporting events.
Each participant can submit up to three photos through the festival website starting at midnight on June 9 until midnight the next day. Images may also be digitally enhanced and edited by the photographer if necessary.
A panel of three judges, made up of a representative from Nikon, a member of the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography and another judge to be named will select the top 30 photographs based on fresh appearance, new interpretation and unique perspective, according to Durkin.
Last year, around 1400 photos were submitted.
This year's competition will also feature a People's Choice Award, which will give residents the opportunity to vote for their favorite photographs online, beginning on Tuesday, June 19 until the end of the festival.
Since its inception in 2004, the competition has allowed the Auckland Festival of Photography to create an archive of more than 5500 images reflecting Auckland and its residents, all of which can be viewed on the Auckland Festival of Photography website.
Paterson believes the competition has brought the community together and captured the city through the eyes of residents, and created acollection of memories for future generations to look back on. WHAT Nikon 2012 Photo Day
WHERE All over Auckland
WHEN 24 hours from midnight, June 9
WEB Auckland Photo Day