Release Date: 24 October 2003


MPA and BIPP to run joint Awards in 2004

In a landmark decision, announced at the recent Master Photographer of the Year Awards in Coventry, the MPA and the BIPP are to join forces to run a combined photography awards next year.

Both photographic bodies have been working closer in recent years, especially in the area of qualifications, and this latest move is set to strengthen the relationship.

The news was delivered - to great applause - by MPA chief executive, Colin Buck, who explained to over 300 attendees that the initiative was a joint decision and is seen as a natural progression from the bringing together of the qualifying panels.

Said Colin: "This is excellent news for members of both associations. Not only will it bring greater prestige and exposure with a combined event, but it will mean cost-savings for the members. Many photographers were going to great expense to enter the same images into both competitions."

The BIPP's president, Tony Freeman agrees: "It's absolutely fantastic news - one of the biggest steps forward for professional photographers in the UK for a long time. The new Awards ceremony will be a mega affair, to be held next October, followed by a touring exhibition of the winning images."

The new event has yet to be named and a meeting to 'hammer out' the finer details is planned for early December.

For details on membership of the MPA call: 0845 130 9700 and the BIPP: 01920 464011.

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@mpauk.com
http://www.mpauk.com
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