Faith Through a Lens: National Photography Competition

Amateur photographers are invited to enter Faith Through a Lens photography competition. Faith Through a Lens, an annual photography competition which aims to profile the positive effects of faith within a diverse range of communities, is now open for entries. This not for profit competition, supported by Congregational & General Charitable Trust, encourages amateur photographers from across the UK to capture what faith means to them.

Ten shortlisted finalists will be invited to an exclusive awards ceremony held in central London on Friday 13th November 2015 to meet lead judge Don McCullin who will critique each of the shortlisted images. This is followed by the announcement of the overall winner and two highly commended entries.

These three winning entrants will be invited to nominate any UK registered charity, faith or community group to receive £1,000 worth of audio-visual or photography equipment of their choice, along with claiming £1,000 and £850 worth of personal prizes respectively. Each finalist will also receive photography prizes worth £250 which includes Albelli vouchers, a Huggler photo book, Rachel Bridgen Photography tuition vouchers and Serif software packages.

The judging panel comprises internationally renowned photojournalist Don McCullin who has been lead judge since the competition began in 2010. He is joined by Aaqil Ahmed, Head of Religion and Ethics at the BBC; Rev Dr David Cornick from Churches Together in England; Paresh Solanki, representing Inter Faith Network; award winning photojournalist Hazel Thompson and Stuart Young from Congregational & General Charitable Trust.

Stuart Young from the Congregational & General Charitable Trust, said: "In launching Faith Through a Lens 2015, we hope to capture the vibrant, diverse and significant role faith plays in people's lives. The judges are looking for an original and creative image that stands out and encapsulates faith. The image could depict a moment of faith, community spirit against the odds or illustrate a community hero.

"We have received some thought provoking interpretations in the past and we look forward to seeing more in this years' competition."

Faith Through a Lens is open for amateur photographers over the age of 16 until 12th October 2015. There are no restrictions on the type of camera that can be used, or the techniques used to produce the final image. Images from mobile/smart phones and tablets are welcomed.

For more details see: www.faiththroughalens.co.uk/