FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -------------------------- Of interest to editors/authors covering: Photography and Multimedia, Arts, Advertising/Marketing, General International Photography Awards Inaugurates First-of-its-kind Showcase of Photographic Excellence LOS ANGELES, Calif. - May 15, 2003 /PRnetwire.com/ -- The International Photography Awards (www.photoawards.com ) was launched today in Los Angeles. This global competition of photographic acumen and imagination aims to salute the achievements of the world's finest photographers, to discover new and emerging talent, and to promote the appreciation of photography all over the world. "For years we have witnessed a lack of recognition for the great talent and contributions of photographers both here and abroad," said Hossein Farmani, the executive director of the International Photography Awards (IPA). "We plan to shine the spotlight on the brilliant work of both professionals and amateurs alike." The centerpiece of this unique celebration will be the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to the towering masters of the craft, including such potential winners as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton and Sebastioa Salgado, Bruce Weber. The first IPA Gala will be held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in November 2003. "An awards ceremony honoring photography is such a great idea, I'm surprised no one has ever thought of it," said renowned photographer William Claxton. Internationally renowned photographer Phil Borges added: "As photographers many of us spend most of our time working alone. Finally we have the International Photo Awards to bring us all together in a celebration of our professional accomplishments." The competition portion of this annual enterprise invites professional, amateur and student photographers to submit their best work before an esteemed panel of judges. Everyone with a camera and a passion to excel is eligible to compete for the coveted title of International Photographer of the Year and a $10,000 grand prize. All nonprofessional entrants will also vie for the New Discovery Award, which honors the best up-and-coming artist in the world today. The deadline to enter photographs in this year's competition is June 30, 2003. Entry forms and details about all IPA events are available at http://www.photoawards.com. "We intend to become the foremost event in the world of photography, bringing together thousands of photo enthusiasts and luminaries in tribute to this marvelous art form and profession," said Farmani, who previously founded Focus on AIDS, an ongoing charity auction of photography that benefits AIDS research and educational organizations. Media Contact: Doug Smith (310) 659-0122 fonto@anet.net # # # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Important Note: to reach the person sending the news release contact: fonto@anet.net If used for publication, please send specimen copy. [source of news = International Photography Awards (IPA)] ref: http://www.send2press.com/2archive/2003/pr_03_0515-photoawards.txt --------------------------------------------------------------------------- prn-2/4c/ca