Entries Open for Nikon 2024-2025 Film and Photo Contest

Nikon Film and Photo Contest 2024-2025 Invites Global Submissions

Nikon Corporation is thrilled to announce the grand opening of entries for the Nikon Film and Photo Contest 2024-2025. This highly anticipated event, which will accept submissions starting at 1:00 p.m. on October 30, 2024 (Japan Standard Time), promises to be a platform for both professional and amateur photographers and filmmakers to showcase their talent and creativity.

A Global Celebration of Imaging Culture

The Nikon Film and Photo Contest is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of imaging culture. This international contest has been a beacon for photographers and filmmakers around the world since its inception in 1969. Over the years, it has grown to become a melting pot of artistic expression, attracting participants from diverse backgrounds. In its last edition, the 39th Contest, the event drew an impressive 35,000 participants from 180 countries and regions, with over 70,000 entries submitted.

A New Name and Logo for a New Era

Marking its 40th iteration, the contest has undergone a significant transformation, now known as the Nikon Film and Photo Contest. This change signifies an expanded focus that equally embraces both photography and filmmaking. Along with the new name, a fresh logo has been introduced, symbolizing the convergence of diverse perspectives and creative expressions that the contest aims to foster.

Esteemed Judges and Evaluation Process

Sarah Leen, a renowned figure in the photographic community, has been selected as the lead judge for this year’s contest. The full panel of judges will be revealed progressively on the contest’s official website as they are appointed. Participants can expect a fair and comprehensive evaluation process conducted by a team of distinguished judges from various fields of expertise.

Contest Overview and Structure

The contest is divided into two main categories: the Short Film Competition and the Photo Competition. Each competition is further broken down into subcategories. The Short Film Competition includes a Super-Short Film Category, with videos ranging from 20 to 40 seconds, and a 5-Minute Film Category for slightly longer entries. Meanwhile, the Photo Competition offers a Single Photo Category and a Photo Story Category, where participants can submit a series of two to five images.

This year’s theme is "Inspire," encouraging entrants to submit works that provoke thought, evoke emotions, and present new perspectives. The winners of the contest will be announced in September 2025, providing ample time for the judges to meticulously review each submission.

Eligibility and Submission Guidelines

The contest welcomes entries from individuals of all ages, genders, and nationalities, whether they are seasoned professionals or enthusiastic amateurs. The goal is to create an inclusive environment where creativity knows no bounds.

For the Short Film Competition, entries using languages other than English must include English subtitles. This requirement ensures that the judges and global audience can fully appreciate the narrative and thematic elements of each film.

Entry Categories and Formats

1. Short Film Competition
   • Theme: "Inspire"
   • Super-Short Film Category: Videos should be between 20 to 40 seconds long, and any recording equipment is acceptable.
   • 5-Minute Film Category: Videos should be between 3 to 5 minutes long, with no restriction on equipment used.
2. Photo Competition
   • Theme: "Inspire"
   • Single Photo Category: Participants can submit a single photograph.
   • Photo Story Category: Entrants can submit a photo story comprising two to five images.

     Entry Period and Submission Process

     Submissions will be accepted from 1:00 p.m. on October 30, 2024, until 1:00 p.m. on February 17, 2025 (JST). To enter, participants must complete the entry form available on the official Nikon Film and Photo Contest website, which will be accessible starting on the opening date of the contest period.

     Awards, Prizes, and Selection Criteria

     The contest features a variety of awards, each recognizing outstanding contributions in their respective categories. The Grand Prize will be awarded to the top entry in each category. Additionally, two entries from each category in both the Short Film and Photo Competitions will receive an Excellence Award, while three entries will be honored with a Special Encouragement Award. Public voting will also play a role in determining the winners of the General Public Award.

     Prize Details

     The Grand Prize winners in each category will receive 500,000 Japanese yen, a Z8 camera, and a NIKKOR Z lens. Excellence Award winners will be rewarded with a Z6III camera, a NIKKOR Z lens, and video accessories. Special Encouragement Award winners will receive a Z30 camera, a NIKKOR Z lens, and video accessories for the Short Film Competition, or a Zfc camera and NIKKOR Z lens for the Photo Competition.

     The General Public Award winners will be awarded a Z50 camera and a NIKKOR Z lens. The specific lenses and accessories will be determined by Nikon, and prizes may be subject to change based on international circumstances or legal constraints.

     Conclusion

     The Nikon Film and Photo Contest 2024-2025 is a remarkable opportunity for creative individuals to share their visions with a global audience. By fostering a community where ideas and perspectives converge, Nikon continues to support and enrich the world of imaging culture. For more information on contest details, eligibility, submission rules, and judging criteria, participants are encouraged to visit the official Nikon Film and Photo Contest website. This prestigious event is not only a competition but also a platform for inspiration, innovation, and artistic expression.

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