Applications are now open for Seniors Card members to get creative and enter the 2020 Through the Lens photographic competition.
Office for Ageing Well’s Manager of the South Australian Seniors Card program, Evlynn Hayes, said the annual competition forms part of this year’s International Day of Older Persons celebrations.
“Seniors Card members love to share their stories, and other members love to hear them. Photos speak a thousand words,” Ms Hayes said.
“Through the Lens is a wonderful opportunity for Seniors Card members to share photos they have taken, which reflect their lives and interests.
“Age is no barrier to creative expression and this popular annual competition encourages older South Australians to learn new skills, develop new interests and discover new ways to express their individuality.
“With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting so many aspects of our lives, the 2020 Through the Lens competition is no different. Whilst it may be more difficult to get out and about to take photos for submission in this year’s competition, you can go back through your catalogue and choose suitable photos, or get creative in your home or garden.”
Finalists will receive prizes including a large framed copy of their successful photo thanks to major sponsor, Atkins Photo Lab. The overall winner’s photo will also grace the cover of the 2021 Seniors Card Discount Directory.
Ian Patterson, the Through the Lens 2019 competition winner, said it was a fun and challenging way to encourage seniors in South Australia to learn and get creative.
“As with many aspects of life, success in photography often requires patience, dedication and even a little pain or discomfort,” Mr Patterson said.
“I have been diving for more than 40 years but it is really only since I started underwater photography that I have really been observing the natural environment closely and even seeing things in the photos that I was entirely unaware of previously.
“Photography is a really great way to further explore your interests and share your experiences with others, and encourages you to go to places you might not otherwise visit.”
The Through theLens competition closes on Friday 31 July, with finalists chosen across five categories – landscape and nature, active ageing, artistic photography, meaningful connections and portrait.
During August, members of the public can also vote for their favourite in the People’s Choice Award.
Winners in all categories including the People’s Choice Award and overall winner will be announced on 1 October.
