HA NOI — The nation's first experimental photography contest was officially launched yesterday by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to encourage photographers to experiment with their art.

The contest was being co-sponsored by the ministry's Department of Fine Arts, Photography and Exhibition, and Viet Nam Association of Photographic Artists (VAPA) to promote creativity and experimentation among Vietnamese photographers with a view to reaching international levels, said Vi Kien Thanh, head of the department.

"The first contest for experimental photographers held by the ministry of culture will be a chance for the photographers to show off their experimental art which is expected to follow diversified photographic trends from throughout the world," Thanh said at the launching ceremony in Ha Noi.

Professional Vietnamese photographers had known about experimental photography since the 1970s, but they had only been really engaged the form in recent years, said Vu Quoc Khanh, VAPA's chairman.

"Experimental photography is a diverse style that includes alternative processes, techniques and creativity. The contest will not be easy because an experimental photo requires painting and graphics," Khanh said.

The best photos will be displayed in Ha Noi in May and in HCM City in June.

One first prize winner will receive VND15 million (US$750), two second place winners will receive VND7 million each and three third place winners will each walk away with VND5 million.

Five consolation prizes will be awarded in the amount of VND3 million each.

An unlimited number of entries may be submitted by each photographer before April 13. Each photo must measure at least 50cm by 75cm.

The organisation board will revoke prizes if copyright violations are discovered. — VNS