The FOTO8 Summershow 2012, the UK's only open-entry, annual photography show is centred around the premise that our photographs can provide compelling and powerful ways of seeing the world and create debate over what makes a great photograph.
Images from crumbling Syria to the bedrooms of Bournemouth are just some of the photographs being submitted into the competition from around the world. Casual 'snap happy' photographers have as much chance as being exhibited alongside artists and professionals from around the world - the only remit is that the images should provide a window on life, convey powerful stories and evoke questions. The deadline for entries is 15 May. [See entry details below].
In excess of 3000 images from all corners of the world are entered, some 150 will be carefully selected for display in the Summershow and offered for sale. A panel of internationally respected judges, including for 2012, BAFTA award winning artist/photographer Alison Jackson; Simon Roberts, one of the highest regarded documentary photographers of the new generation artists; Gerry Badger, foremost UK photo historian and commentator who wrote "the" book on photography; Phil Coomes, the BBC's director of online photography and Ossian Ward, arts editor of Time Out, will select an image to be Best in Show for which there is a £2,000 prize. The winner will be announced at the FOTO8 Summershow party, on 6 July when the photographic community come out to party at a huge street celebration with more than 600 revellers taking over Honduras Street. The show opens to the public on 7 July 2012.
To stimulate debate over what makes a great photograph, FOTO8 asks visitors to vote for their favourite image over the duration of the exhibition. The image with the most votes receives the Peoples' Choice Award announced two weeks prior to the close of the Summershow.
This year's Summershow benefits from newly refurbished premises. The FOTO8 gallery, previously known as HOST Gallery, has been significantly expanded and will provide increased gallery space for 2012.
"The opportunity to capture an image that dramatically communicates a moment in time is no longer just the reserve of the professional photographer. The FOTO8 Summershow celebrates this fact by asking everyone to put forward a picture and in doing so create an exhibition that holds a mirror to society and the lives we live now. The Summershow is also a recognised platform for new talent and a unique canvas for evolving photographic styles. This makes it hugely popular with photography collectors and enthusiasts alike" Jon Levy, FOTO8 Founder and Co-Director
"Anyone can take a picture but the fun and interest is exploring what makes a great photograph. What is so exciting about this competition is that it does just this by being open to everyone across all subject matter. Choosing just one image to win is wonderfully provocative and I am very much looking forward to taking part as well as seeing the new talent coming through." Alison Jackson, photographer and FOTO8 Summershow Judge 2012
Have you got an image for the FOTO8 Summershow?
If you think you have an image that tells a powerful story, why not enter? To enter and for submission guidelines visit here. Entries must be submitted by 15 May.
Below are a selection of photographs being submitted plus some winners from last year.