The imagine IF Photography Awards have been announced in India by Oppo. The program intends to inspire creativity in smartphone photography, and its Indian ambassador is director and screenwriter SS Rajamouli.
In 2023, Oppo introduced the idea of IF Photography Awards on a global level. 51 countries submitted more than 7,00,000 entries for the Awards’ first edition. Imagine IF is in its second year and is making its debut in India.
“As an artist, I’ve always believed in pushing the boundaries of creativity, going into unknown realms, and encouraging others to follow in my footsteps,” Rajamouli remarked. “I am happy to be a part of the OPPO envision IF India Photography Awards 2024, which is a bold step towards rewarding innovation and imagination in mobile photography. Together, let’s imagine the impossibly possible, document the remarkable, and leave a lasting legacy of inspiration for future generations.”
All Indian citizens over the age of eighteen are eligible to enter the competition, which has nine entry categories: Landscape, Portrait, Colors, Unfading Moment, Fashion, Snapshot, Light, Travel, and Collection. A panel of photographers, including fashion photographer Arjun Mark, wildlife photographer Arzoo Khurana, celebrity wedding and portrait photographer Joseph Radhik, and other international juries, will judge the entries.
“Oppo India is proud to bring the Imagine IF Photography Awards to the country, providing a platform to showcase the incredible talent of Indian photographers,” stated Sushant Vashistha, Head of Digital Marketing at Oppo India. Oppo, the only smartphone brand represented at Paris Photo 2023, displayed a stunning collection of photographs, including works by well-known photographers and the winners of the 2023 Oppo Imagine IF Photography Awards. We’re looking forward to seeing some amazing Indian photos displayed internationally this year.”
For “Round 1,” participants can upload photos taken with their smartphones until June 15, 2024 (midnight IST). Out of these, 50 winners-who will be revealed during the final week of June—will move on to Round 2. The last six winners will be revealed on July 25, 2024, following the beginning of this second round in early July.
The top three winners will receive cash prizes: INR 5,00,000 for the Gold winner, INR 2,00,000 for the Silver winners, and INR 1,00,000 for the Bronze winners. In addition to working with Oppo India on the photography-led initiatives, all five winners will have the chance to see the newest Oppo phone and attend the Paris Show.
The OPPO Find X7 Ultra was unveiled as part of the Oppo Ambassador Conclave in Mumbai, where the awards were presented on the sidelines.
Discussions on the development of smartphone photography, AI advancements, and the rise of content creators were led by influential people in the industry and Oppo Ambassadors, such as Rajeev Masand, COO, Dharma Cornerstone; Anubhav Sinha, Director; Sudeep Chatterjee, DOP, Monaz Todywalla, CEO, PHD Media India; and Raj Kamble, COO, Famous.
