What image do you think best represents Hong Kong's development and achievements since the 1997 Handover?

Renowned photographer Ng Lin-sing, one of the judges of the 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the HKSAR Photo Competition, is looking for photos reflecting the city's spirit and uniqueness.

In an interview with news.gov.hk, the Chinese Photographic Association Chairman said matching the competition theme is the top criteria.

HK images: Renowned photographer Ng Lin-sing, one of the judges of the 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the HKSAR Photo Competition. Leaflets containing entry forms for the competition are now available at District Offices.

"The theme of this contest is to show Hong Kong's success in the past decade, the successful implementation of One County, Two Systems and Hong Kong people's can-do attitude and entrepreneurial spirit," he said.

"I think this topic is very challenging and inspiring. Hong Kong has had its ups and downs in the past decade. Although we had a tough time during the financial crisis, we eventually overcame the adversities and are now experiencing an upturn in the economy."

Mr Ng attributed the city's success to Hong Kong people's resilience, the One Country, Two Systems principle, the implementation of the Basic Law, and the staunch support of the country.

"I have noticed that public attitude towards the One Country, Two Systems principle has changed. Before the Handover, people had reservations about this unprecedented initiative. However, following the implementation of the principle, they have understood more about it and eventually recognised the idea.

"The Basic Law is also essential to our city's development because it provides us a free and stable environment to develop our economy." 

Wide choice

Mr Ng said there is a wide choice of images to show Hong Kong's achievement.

"Some famous landmarks, major infrastructure projects, and new sight-seeing attractions are options worth exploring. Important districts frequented by local people are also good examples to showcase the city's prosperity."

He said photos featuring local activities organised by various bodies are also welcome. Pictures showing international events successfully held in the city, including ITU Telecom World 2006, can also be considered.

"Since photos taken within one year of the submission deadline are also accepted, people are welcome to submit their previous works that have not been submitted to other contests or been on public display."

Given the recent development in photography technology, photo-taking has become a common and popular leisure activity. Mr Ng said although advanced photography technology has made photo-taking much easier, picture quality still relies on technique.

Technical judgement

He said photography is a form of two dimensional art and he will pay special attention to the following major technical aspects:

* use of light;

* colour contrast;

* composition balance of the image; and,

* photography aesthetics.

Technical difficulty and creativity are two other important elements for judging the entries, Mr Ng added.

To allow greater participation in the competition, the contest is divided into three categories - Open, Youth and Mobile Phone.

"Taking photos with mobile phones or PDA has become popular nowadays. The addition of the mobile phone category will definitely attract more amateurs to join the contest."