Ramadan Photography Initiative Hopes to Counter Negative Stereotypes about Muslims and Islam

ISLAMIC ARTS MAGAZINE

Father and son with the Quran during Ramadan. Mahmoud Abu Hamda, Palestine / Courtesy of IRPC

NEW YORK---The third annual “Capture the Spirit of Ramadan” International Photography Competition™ brings people together from around the world under the banner of “bridging cultures and inspiring creativity”. Beautiful photos are shared in an effort to counter the negative images of Islam often seen in the media and to open people’s minds and hearts to the good in the faith. The International Ramadan Photography Competition (IRPC) is a unique 30-day visual celebration of Ramadan, which started on July 10, 2013. The “Capture the Spirit of Ramadan” International Photography Competition™ was founded by Basel Almisshal, an award-winning architect, designer and professional photographer in 2011. [link]

Alif Lam Meem. Hina Ahmed, Pakistan / Courtesy of IRPC

Unique to other international photography competitions in the world, IRPC:

• Publishes all of the photo entries (that pass the submission criteria for quality and technical expertise), not just selected finalists and winners
• Photo entries are published daily throughout the competition for the length of the month of Ramadan
• Accepts photo entries completely online, FREE of charge
• Welcomes photo entries from photographers regardless of religion, nationality or location\
• Strives to give as much exposure to entrant's’ work by publishing the photos on international media sites, photography and art magazines as an incentive for novice photographers seeking international exposure for the first time
• Is a non-profit, 100% volunteer initiative