HA NOI — Foreign photographers have been invited to submit their photos to compete alongside works by Vietnamese photographers in the press photo contest Golden Moment, its organisation board announced yesterday.
"The number of foreigners coming to Viet Nam has increased every year. We want to learn more about the angle through which they look at our country, our life and our people. That's why this year's contest is not only open to Vietnamese people, but to foreigners as well," said Nguyen Quang Thang, a member of the contest's organisation board.
Organised by the Viet Nam News Agency, Golden Moment launched its first round of competition in 2007. Thousands of photographers nationwide submitted photos to compete in the most prestigious contest of its kind in the country.
"Although the first two seasons were for Vietnamese citizens only, many foreigners expressed interest in joining the competition," Thang explained.
Any photo taken from September 15, 2009 to August 30, 2010 that depicts an angles of Viet Nam's economy, politics, culture, sports, environment or education may be entered into the contest. Photos may not have been previously published.
The first prize winner will walk away with the VND25 million (US$1,300) grand prize. One VND10 million first prize, two VND7 million second prizes, and three VND5 million third prizes will also be awarded in the single photo and photo essay categories.
At yesterday's press conference, Vinaphone, one of the two biggest mobile phone service providers in the country, was announced as a contest sponsor.
Vinaphone will offer four prizes of its own for the best photos taken with a 3G mobile phone.
Contest information can be found at the official website www.khoanhkhacvang.vn.
The award's ceremony will be held in Ha Noi on September 15. — VNS