MEDIA RELEASE
9 November 2012
Canon’s EYEcon photographic competition recognises future stars
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 from the Universal College of Learning (UCOL), will be awarded 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.”
“We are so pleased to be able to offer this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to Grant. The competition encourages our
up-and-coming talent to explore what and who inspires them as a photographer,” says Mora.
Second place was awarded to Denelle Macdonald, a student at Massey University. The judges said Denelle’s submission
could grace the pages of any creative, edgy European magazine in a heartbeat. “A beautiful series of honest and open
images that pour out of the picture,” says one judge.
This year’s competition saw strong contention for a place and the judges felt that special mention was fitting for
Vinesh Kumaran, who submitted captivating depictions of life growing up in the local Dairy, entitled “Open All Hours”.
Grant Matthew will receive:
• $4,000.00 Canon dollars to spend on any Canon Digital SLR, lenses, Canon printer and/or Canon photo paper and inks.
(RRP incl GST, directly from Canon New Zealand Ltd)
• Canon PIXMA Pro 9500 MKII Printer RRP $1599
• $1,000.00 cash
• An experience day with each of the three Canon EYEcon mentor photographers
(flights and accommodation included)
• A2 Large format print of their own image of choice
• NZIPP membership for one year
• AIPA membership for one year
Denelle Macdonald will receive:
• $2,000.00 Canon dollars to spend on any Canon Digital SLR, lenses, Canon printer and/or Canon photo paper and inks.
(RRP incl GST, directly from Canon New Zealand Ltd)
• Canon PIXMA Pro 9000 MKII RRP $1149
• NZIPP membership for one year
• AIPA membership for one year
Organisation / Institute (UCOL) of first place winner (Grant Matthew) will receive:
• $2,000.00 Canon dollars to spend on any Canon Digital SLR, lenses, Canon printer and/or Canon photo paper and inks.
(RRP incl GST, directly from Canon New Zealand Ltd)
ENDS