Geelong Portrait Photography Prize seeks entries

LOCAL photographers have an opportunity to exhibit their work and win a $3,000 cash prize thanks to the launch of a new art competition.

Hosted by the Hue and Cry Collective and the Analogue Academy, the inaugural Geelong Portrait Photography Prize (GPPP) is open to both emerging and professional photographers.

The Hue and Cry Collective is a gallery and studio space, owned by husband-and-wife team Corey and Harriet Notaristefano, that strives to platform local artists and celebrate pioneering, emerging and high-quality art.

The film lab, Analogue Academy, is housed within the gallery and is also owned by the duo.

“We ran an art prize last year, open to all kinds of mediums, and it was a really good success and we wanted to provide a specific photography prize for the community,” Mr Notaristefano said.

While open to applicants across Australia, the prize has a strong focus on Geelong’s photography community.

“It gives an opportunity for photographers and artists to get recognition for the work that they’re doing and to get their work in front of esteemed people within the photography and arts community,” Mr Notaristefano said.

He said the prize also gave photographers a chance to earn some money, gain feedback on the work they’re producing and benefit from the recognition and esteem that comes with a prize.

The GPPP will be judged by an independent panel of up to three experts across four criteria, including evidence of technical skill, aesthetics, innovation and clarity of concept.

“We’re looking for portraits that show a great deal of technical skill, that push the boundaries of portraiture and really engage the audience,” Mr Notarisefano said.

There are three prizes up for grabs.

The GPPP’s first prize winner will receive a $3,000 cash prize, while the winner of the Analogue Academy prize will receive a $500 development and scan package for film photographers.

The Peoples’ Choice prize will give the public a chance to vote for their favourite work and the winner will receive a three-week exhibition at the Hue and Cry Collective.

Applicants can submit up to 10 portraits. These are not time-bound, and both digital and analogue photographs will be accepted.

Applications close February 29.

All photographs submitted will be exhibited at the Hue and Cry Collective between April 6-27, with prize winners announced on April 6.

For entry conditions or to enter the photography prize, head to analogueacademy.com.au/gppp