Whether it’s the beauty of nature or throngs of people, the city of East Lansing is asking for photographs of what makes the city different from others.
“This will expose (participants) to the unique things about our city and challenge them to really look around East Lansing and find and capture the spirit of East Lansing,” said Michael Sundermann, chairman of the East Lansing Arts Commission.
The City Scenes Photo Contest officially kicked off in April and runs through Nov. 9. Entry packets consist of an entry form, instructions, a film-processing coupon and a 27-exposure 35-millimeter disposable camera from Meijer. They are $10 and can be picked up at participating locations throughout the city.
The idea for the photo contest grew out of a suggestion by East Lansing City Councilmember Bev Baten.
“I thought it would be a way to create new eyes for the community so people would look around and see the heart of the community and not its problems,” Baten said.
The photo laboratory at the East Lansing Meijer, 1350 W. Lake Lansing Road, is processing contestant photos at 50 percent off with the entry packet coupon.
“We thought this would be a nice cause to support as an East Lansing business and we always try to support the East Lansing arts,” photo lab manager John DeMarco said.
The contest is divided into three categories: Children 10 and younger, youth 11 to 17 and adults 18 and older, with prizes provided to the winner of each category from area businesses.
“There are going to be some good prizes for the masters but the contest is for kids as soon as they’re old enough to really take a picture, so there will be a variety of toys and things too,” DeMarco said.
The contest is being held in conjunction with the opening of the East Lansing/Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbott Road.
Every entrant’s photo will be matted and displayed during a reception in the building to illustrate people’s thoughts on what makes up the heart of the city, Sundermann said. The best photos will remain at the center for an extended showing.
Entry packets can be picked up at Meijer; Bailey Community Center, 300 Bailey St.; City Hall, 410 Abbott Road and MSU Federal Credit Union 523 E. Grand River Ave. Entries can be dropped off at City Hall. For more information call (517) 319-6945.
