"Photography Opportunity for Youth in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

Discover Aberdeen through the eyes of its young, creative residents in a new digital photography competition aimed at youth aged 13-18. The competition is part of the annual Light the Blue Festival 2024, taking place from June 8 to June 16.

Young individuals from Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are encouraged to use their mobile phones to capture images that embody the spirit of inclusivity and welcome in the North East. Organized by Gray’s School of Art’s Look Again and Mobile Art School, in collaboration with Light the Blue Festival led by Aberdeen Performing Arts (APA), the competition will showcase the talent and creativity of the region’s youth.

Selected photographs will be printed and displayed at Aberdeen’s Music Hall and other digital screens at APA venues during the festival. Categories include Landscape, Portraiture, Documentary, Abstract, and Candid snapshot.

Sally Reaper, Director of Look Again, expressed excitement about the competition, highlighting the significance of each photo in telling a story of acceptance and unity. The collaboration with Aberdeen Performing Arts celebrates diversity and aims to inspire young people to explore opportunities in art and culture.

Jordan Blackwood, Creative Producer for Light the Blue at Aberdeen Performing Arts, emphasized the importance of the “Everyone Is Welcome Here” ethos in the festival. The photography competition provides a platform for young creatives to showcase their talents and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the North East.

To participate, entrants must be aged between 13-18 and based in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire. Submissions should reflect the theme of ‘everyone is welcome here.’ Images with sensitive or inappropriate content will not be accepted, and consent is required for photos featuring individuals.

Entries should be emailed to Look Again by May 27, with a maximum file size of 2MB per submission. Additionally, Gray’s Degree Show will offer young people’s tours led by Gray’s Graduates in Residence on various dates during the festival.

Overall, the competition aims to celebrate diversity, creativity, and inclusivity among young people in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, providing a platform for them to showcase their talent and share their unique perspectives through photography.