2017 Japan Photo Contest Reception
On February 6th, 2018, a reception was held at the official residence of the Consul General in recognition and celebration of the winners of the 2017 Japan Photo Contest. 8 of the 11 winners across our jurisdiction were able to attend, including some travelling from as far as Edmonton and Rocky Mountain House. Special guests in attendance included Ms. Anam Kazim, MLA for Calgary-Glenmore and sponsor representatives from The Camera Store and Japanab Magazine, as well as contest judges and members of the Japanese-Canadian community.
In his opening remarks, Consul General Tanabe touched on the continuous increase in number of entries since the contest’s inception in 2014, and its correlation to both general public interest in Japan and the strong bond that has developed between Japan and Canada over time. He also noted that this year is an opportune time to continue to increase awareness of the special relationship shared being that 2018 marks the 90th Anniversary of Japan-Canada Diplomatic Relations.
Mr. Tony Wong, President of the Calgary Photographic Arts Society, and one of the 3 contest judges, also gave remarks, praising the high level of professionalism evident in the photos. To follow, MLA Kazim offered up a toast in the winner’s honour.
An award ceremony was then held in which each winner received a certificate from Consul General Tanabe, as well as prizes provided by the contest’s generous sponsors including: Canon Canada Inc., The Camera Store, Japanab Magazine, and Manfrotto. In addition, each winner took the microphone to provide the unique story behind their individual photos, including some that held a strong connection between Canada & Japan.
Throughout the evening, the approximately 40 guests were able to enjoy the winning photos on display in large print, view a slideshow of many more of the 392 photos entered into the contest.
The Consulate-General of Japan in Calgary would like to thank the winners of the contest, all those that submitted entries, the judges, and our sponsors for their continued support and promotion of Japan-Canada relations via the Japan Photo Contest.
You can see the award-winning photos here: Japan Photo Contest Winning Announcement
Opening remarks by Consul General Tanabe
Remarks by Tony Wong, Contest Judge
Toast by Ms. Anam Kazim, MLA Calgary-Glenmore
