BUILDING on the success of past editions, National Geographic Abu Dhabi has launched the 7th edition of its high-profile «Moments» photography competition. For the fourth year running, "Moments" will partner with Almarai. While this year›s edition has already seen a wide and enthusiastic response, it is expected to attract a much larger participation, as the format has been significantly expanded. 2016 saw the introduction of smartphone photography entries, and this year features a number of important firsts: A brand new «Youth» category open for participants aged 17 and under A «Photo-documentary» category for storytellers, showcasing «Celebrations» moment in 2 to 6 pictures and a maximum of 600 word description A «People›s Choice Award», where voters across the Middle East will select an entry from the short-listed entries on the official competition website Ahead of the launch, Abdul Hadi Al-Sheikh, Executive Director of Television in Abu Dhabi Media, said «the success of «Moments» has been evident through the increased interest in participation over the years. This tells us that we have identified an extraordinary potential within our region, and have given a voice to a mode of expression that is at the core of a channel for whom photography is iconic.» «There is an extraordinary amount of talent in the region just waiting to express itself,» said Hussam Abdulqader, Head of Communications and PR, Almarai. «Our continued partnership with National Geographic Abu Dhabi is based on our shared mission dedicated to revealing Arab talents and enabling them to express their vibrant potential.» Sanjay Raina, General Manager of Fox Networks Group in the Middle East and North Africa, highlighted the importance of the competition›s partnership with Almarai. «Partnering with Almarai is not just strategic, but a meeting of minds and hearts. We are both keen on bringing out the immense pool of talent in the region, and the quality of the past submissions is an absolute indication that we have only tapped the tip of the iceberg so far. Moreover, we also have Nikon on board this year, as in previous editions, both as our photography prize partner and jury member. The active participation of such a prestigious brand provides confirmation that ‹Moments› showcases the aspirations of generations who want to show that they too can excel in this artistic medium par excellence.» The competition will run until the end of May, and all entries will be submitted to a panel of distinguished judges. This year›s ‘Single Image' and the ‘Photo-documentary' prizes will consist of an all-expenses-paid National Geographic 11-day photography expeditions to Cuba, along with $7,500 photography hampers, courtesy of Nikon, a long-standing photography partner of the channel. Two winners will also receive tickets and travel to the Awards Ceremony. The Youth Grand Prix and People›s Choice prizes will consist of a Certificate to each winner, as well as a $2,000 photography hamper, also courtesy of Nikon, and a $500 National Geographic hamper, respectively.
