STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, MathematicsAfter our very successful 2020 photographic competition, which received some outstanding photographs depicting important aspects of the history of science and technology in Essex, we are pleased to open again for entries in 2021.

The competition is open to anyone in full time or part time education in Essex and again explores the key link between the creative arts and STEM. As part of a bigger project, which we will be running later this year, the theme of this year's competition is:

Fresh Air, Fresh Thinking

While pollution is a multifaceted global problem, from agricultural pollutants such as nitrates and ammonia to mercury and lead contamination and of course our worrying reliance on single-use plastics, air pollution is often less noticeable but is increasingly harming both our health and our environment.

We want you to take photographs that express what air pollution means to you, or how it impacts our health or our environment, and the negative or positive roles that technology can play. Each photograph should be accompanied with a short explanation (not more than 50 words) of the story or thoughts behind it.

Centenary Photographic CompetitionTake out your camera or your phone and snap some photos that encapsulate the essence of air pollution and the role of science and technology. The competition is open to primary or secondary school-aged students living and/or educated in Essex. We will be looking for photos that are creative in their approach, with an innovative angle on the subject, or have a creative interpretation of the themes.

There are two categories of entry: one for primary school students and one for secondary school students. The entries will be shortlisted by members of CSES and a panel of judges will select a winner from the shortlisted entries in each category.

The prizes in each category are: 1st (£60 voucher), 2nd (£30 voucher) and 3rd (£20 voucher) place. The winners and selected entries will be displayed in an online exhibition and may feature in future publicity materials.

Click here to submit your entry. (Please make sure to read the FAQs, terms and conditions first!)

Entries must be submitted no later than Friday 17 September 2021. Extended to Friday 15 October 2021!

FAQs

How do I enter the photo competition? Simply fill in the online entry form. (Please make sure to read the rest of the FAQs, terms and conditions first!)

Who can enter? Any primary or secondary aged student living or being taught (in school or at home) in Essex.

How many photos may I submit? Each entrant can submit a maximum of 3 images reflecting the STEAM theme.

How will my photograph be judged? Judging consists of two rounds for each category. In round one the judges will shortlist the best 10 images in each age group. The entries selected in round one will proceed to round two, where the judges will select a first, second and third place winner in each category.

How will the final winners be announced? The winners, and those who were shortlisted, will be notified by email between the closing date and the announcement date (see above). Winners will be announced on the website thereafter.

What are the prizes? In each age category (primary and secondary): 1st prize £60 voucher, 2nd prize £35 voucher, 3rd prize £20 voucher. Winners and runners-up will be invited to an awards evening at the end of the academic year.

I'd like to enter a photo that has previously been in another competition. Is that allowed? You may not enter a photo that has previously been in another competition, but you may enter a photo that you are also submitting to this year's Chelmsford City Photo Competition (if it is running).

Will my photographs be seen online? Some images may be published on the CSES website and our partner's websites.

Is image manipulation allowed in the photo contest? Yes, image manipulation is allowed.

When I submit a photo to the photo competition, what rights does CSES have to my image? CSES will have the nonexclusive, perpetual right to use your image in connection with the competition and promoting the Society, in any media now or in the future.

Are release forms required when submitting a photograph to the photo contest? By submitting a photograph, you are confirming that you are the owner of the image and the copyright. If your photograph contains an image of yourself or someone else, you must get your/their parent or guardian to submit a signed image consent form.

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Read on for full terms and conditions...