A big shout out to all the wonderful contestants who rocked up at the Yarralumla Gallery to receive their theme packs and entry numbers, early Saturday morning. From the very start there was a feeling of companionship amongst those who just couldn’t live without the search to get that perfect shot. Registration went super smooth thanks to our dedicated volunteers who evolved into A-grade resource managers, technical supporters and empathetic counselors throughout the day.
From thereon our brave 120 competitors went walkabout throughout the length and breadth of the heart of the nation in search of themes inspired by different elements of human nature and forces of nature.
The light dawned pretty quickly on most that the task ahead might be more difficult than initially expected. Whether challenged by timing, technical abilities or even loss and malfunction of gear, everyone’s world was tipped a bit upside down, and by the time we had to gather for the second set of themes, there were some seriously raw and battered emotions… But the photographers persevered and continued the quest for that evasive, larger than life idea or moment to capture. And lo and behold, reward comes to those who wait!
As Earth Hour neared, the day drew to a close and all the photos were rounded up at PhotoAccess’ facilities in Manuka. And, as was clear to the team (and by now to our judges), a picture can really speak a thousand words and we are listening and liking the sound!
An extremely difficult task awaits before the winners and all the creative interpretations would be revealed on the 17th of April during our showcase event. Until then, thank you so much for each and everyone’s contribution to the day, it was really something special.
Yours in snaps
The Crew
2 comments
July Williams says:
April 3, 2010 at 5:50 am (UTC 11)
Walking into the unknown, it was actually completely different to what I was expecting and I didnt know how tiring it would be!
The real clincher was getting things in order….seeing a shot that suited a theme further down the list (how frustrating is that!!) and just having to walk on keeping focused on the task at hand.
Having all these ideas in my head with each theme….not being able to actualize them was just devastating for me.
Very different from shooting weddings & portraits….I had to start thinking crypticaly (and I am really BAD at cryptic cross words)
Anyway I finished even though I nearly gave up half way through the day. I think that next time I will be a little more prepared…..(well, as prepared as you can be I guess).
P.S. Thank you for the opportunity it was a great day.
kincuri says:
April 6, 2010 at 3:51 pm (UTC 11)
Thank you so much for organising this for the Canberra photographic community!
Whilst my day didn’t quite go to plan, as I ended up dropping my kit into a fountain about an hour in (just before we headed to the zoo as well, thankfully, it’s ok >.< ) – my brother and I really did enjoy the day.
The themes were totally challenging, but definitely kept things interesting.
Looking forward to having another go in the future, if the chance arises.