UCOL student wins 2012 Canon EYEcon competition

News Release

12 November 2012

UCOL student wins 2012 Canon EYEcon competition

UCOL Photography student Grant Matthew is the winner of the 2012 Canon EYEcon photographic competition with a portfolio judges said could stand up in the raw journalistic world of true story telling.

Grant, a second year photography student, won with a portfolio of photographers that would be suitable for a campaign by an organisation like Amnesty International. Grant says the tone and style of the photographs were inspired by entries in the World Press Awards.

The Head of UCOL’s School of Photography, Arts and Design Rachel Hoskin says Grant’s award is further recognition of the strength that UCOL has in the field of visual journalism. “In all disciplines, students are encouraged to explore social issues and create provocative images that explore the truth within visual storytelling. Grant's images are an excellent example of this,'” she says.

Last year's Canon EYEcon competition was also won by a UCOL Photography student, Fleur Verhoeven.

As 2012 winner, Grant will receive a prize pack unlike any other. A combination of cash, Canon products and a full day on location with each of the three EYEcon mentors – Graeme Murray, Nigel Marple and Mike Langford – makes it the most substantial prize for a competition at this level.

Leading New Zealand photographers Murray, Marple and Langford judged the submissions of work in a lengthy and detailed judging process. Grant’s four submitted images were praised by the judging panel as having an incredibly high level of photographic technique.

“The realism of Grant’s work drew me in entirely, he understands what makes a powerful image,” stated one judge’s comment. “The tension created is compelling and the composition shows impeccable skill.”

Rochelle Mora, Brand Manager – Imaging at Canon New Zealand, said they are thrilled with the outcome of the 2012 EYEcon photographic competition, with this year proving the most successful to date.

“The response was outstanding, highlighting New Zealand’s passion for photography and the remarkable homegrown talent that is emerging,” says Mora.

“The high calibre of the final portfolios is a testament to the incredible skills and creativity of the future stars of our industry. This year has also seen a 20 percent increase in submissions on 2011, a positive trend which makes the announcement of the competition’s renewal for its fifth year in 2013 all the more exciting.”

Second place was awarded to Denelle Macdonald, a student at Massey University.

ENDS

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