Sony and the World Photography Organization announced that the city of Cannes will again provide the location for the annual Sony World Photography Awards and World Photography Festival. The photographic events run from April 22-27, 2010.
Welcoming professional and amateur photographers, photography students and the general public, the awards and festival comprise a five-day celebration of the craft of photography. Taking place throughout Cannes, locations include the famous Croisette, with a host of exhibitions, workshops, portfolio reviews, student programs and talks from World Photography Academy members, such as Jonathan Torgovnik, Nadav Kander and Reza.
Another highlight of the program will be the Photography Now symposium. Presented by some of the leading international industry figures, it explores the current topics, trends, dilemmas and debates concerning photography.
The prestigious Sony World Photography Awards prize ceremony is scheduled for April 22 at the Grand Lumier Theatre of the Palais des Festivals; there winners of the professional, amateur and student categories will receive their trophies and the overall winner of the 2010 L’Iris D’Or for Photographer of the Year will be announced. The final presentation will go to the recipient of the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Other festival activities include:
-Cannes ‘lypse’ - The iStockphoto team offers a series of workshops and live shoots for anyone interested in strong stock photography concepts. The iStockalypse will engage attendees to join in challenging, educational shoots influenced by French culture and the city of Cannes. Anticipate beachside cafes, shopping, sailing, fashion, food and culinary topics, even some red carpet shoots—all with art-direction, models and studio lighting.
-A seminar from Panos Pictures Agency that offers insight into the professional world of photography and how to stand out from the rest.
-A special exhibition by participating students of the SWPA Student Focus program showcasing images from universities around the world.
-Portfolio reviews where top industry leaders offer constructive criticism, helping photographers improve their portfolio selection and presentation. Expert reviewers already confirmed are Aidan Sullivan (vice president, Getty Images), Monica Allende (picture editor, the Sunday Times), Chloe Limpkin (picture director, Harpers Bazaar), Bill Hunt (collector and portfolio owner/cofounder of Hasted Hunt Gallery), Roberto Koch publisher, Contrasto and founder of Forma, Milan) and Mark Sealy (director, Autograph).
“We are delighted that the awards and festival have grown into such a spectacular event in just three years,” said Astrid Merget, creative director, Sony World Photography Awards and Festival. “We really look forward to welcoming the international photographic community, everyone interested in photography and the general public to Cannes this April.”
Tickets to the 2010 Sony World Photography Awards and World Photography Festival are available now at
www.worldphotographyawards.org.