Release Date: 7 November 2003


MPA UNVEILS NEW PRESIDENT

The Master Photographer Association has announced that Peter Ellis will be its President for 2004. Peter was welcomed into the position by MPA chief executive, Colin Buck, at the recent Master Photographer of the Year Awards in Coventry.

As Peter explained, he is relishing the challenges that lie ahead: "I've been involved with MPA for over 30 years, so it's a great honour for me to be made President. If I have one goal for the year, it's to persuade as many members as possible to go for their qualifications. At the end of the day, we're all business people and qualifications can only help peoples' businesses to prosper."

Peter is delighted that the MPA and the BIPP are to work together more closely: "In my opinion the link-up between the two associations is well overdue. It's vital for the industry to be presented with one voice and I'm sure everyone will be a winner as a result. Many people have said to me that this year's Master Photographer of the Year Awards were the best yet; I would agree with that, but I think next year's will be even better."

Outgoing president, Dennis Hylander has fond memories of his year in office: "It's been a great year with many happy memories. My definite highlight was being made chairman of the judging panel for the national print competition. I was able to assemble a really good team of judges and introduce some new categories. Everyone seemed to be really pleased with the way the judging went which was a tribute to all those involved. Hopefully this team will be involved in the new MPA/BIPP awards which begin next year."

When asked for his thoughts on the incoming President, Dennis thinks the Association has chosen well: "Peter is a true gentleman, and to be honest, a much nicer person than me! He is a fine photographer who is very well respected throughout the industry. He's level-headed and honest; but I think his greatest gift is that he is a good listener - this is a part of Peter that will be greatly appreciated by the membership. I hope Peter enjoys his year in office as much as I did."

Peter was keen to pay tribute to the work done by Dennis: "He is a fantastic bloke who has done a great job, and will be a hard act to follow. Dennis is very approachable and always willing to help - he has been my mentor in the business for many years - so I would encourage people to seek his advice."

Membership of The Master Photographers Association is open to full time professional photographers both in the UK and overseas. For further details please call 0845 130 9700 or visit the website at www.thempa.com, or e-mail: enq@thempa.com

ENDS


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Issued on behalf of:
Master Photographers Association
Jubilee House, 1 Chancery Lane, Darlington DL1 5QP
Tel: 0845 130 9700 Fax: 01325 357813
E-mail: enq@thempa.com
http://www.thempa.com
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Written and distributed by WPS Media. Tel. 01904 427777
Contacts: Darron Hartas, Peter Brandon, Katerina Paphitis