ForestWander – Nature Photography News

WASHINGTON, DC–(Marketwire – January 30, 2008) – Nature’s Best Photography, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and Sony Electronics, Inc. are pleased to announce the CALL FOR ENTRIES for the 2008 Nature’s Best Photography Windland Smith Rice International Awards.

Presented by Sony Electronics, Inc. and its Alpha DSLR Camera system team, the Awards program is one of the world’s most prestigious and visually compelling outdoor photography competitions. Winning images are displayed in large format prints at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, where they are enjoyed by millions of visitors. The competition is offering cash and prizes totaling more than $25,000. The 2007 award winners can also be viewed at MSNBC, America Online and Washingtonpost.com.

NBP is accepting submissions for its 2008 Awards until April 26, 2008. The opening of entries coincides with PMA08, the Photo Marketing Association International’s annual convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. Online entries information can be found at Nature’s Best Photography.

The awards began with simple yet dynamic goals: To celebrate the beauty and diversity of nature through the art of photography, and to use this far-reaching medium as a creative tool for encouraging greater public interest in outdoor enjoyment and conservation stewardship. “Pictures have the power to delight, amuse, shock, challenge and inspire us,” said Steve Haber, senior vice president, in charge of Sony Electronics’ digital imaging and audio division. “Digital technologies, like those found on our Alpha DSLR camera system, make it easier to capture and share them with the public. Sony is honored to support and promote the skills and creativity of amateur and professional photographers worldwide.”

In addition to 16 category awards, there are four special awards that are presented at a VIP reception when the winners are unveiled at the Smithsonian.

– Grand Prize – Best overall image.

– Conservation Photographer of the Year – Recognizes a photographer who has used their skills to implement meaningful conservation efforts to educate the public about environmental concerns. Sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation.

– Youth Photographer of the Year – Best overall young photographer (U/18).

– Lifetime Achievement Award – Honoring a photographer’s lifelong dedication to nature.

In 2007, NBP launched a multi-year exhibition partnership with the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. “The museum is dedicated to understanding our natural world and our place in it. The exhibition is an exciting program that reaches people in so many ways — on a personal level as well as educational,” said Elizabeth Duggal, Associate Director, Smithsonian NMNH.

The Nature’s Best Photography competition is named in memory of accomplished photographer and conservation advocate, Windland Smith Rice, for her past support of emerging photographers worldwide. In 2007, photographers from more than 25 countries submitted over 17,000 images.

“Rarely do you find such a prestigious exhibition that offers opportunities for the public to participate through our annual competition, which is open to photographers of all ages and levels of experience,” said Steve Freligh, NBP Awards Chairman.

For additional information:
Steve Jarriel
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