#China #Shenzhen #Huawei #Photography #XMAGE

Celebrating the HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2024

On November 27, 2024, the Shenzhen Sea World Culture and Art Centre became a hub of creativity and celebration as it hosted the annual HUAWEI XMAGE Awards. Under the theme titled A Heartwarming World, this event was a showcase of artistic photography and a platform for talented individuals across the globe.

The evening brought together a vibrant mix of artists, media representatives, winners, and enthusiasts, all gathered to witness the announcement of the laureates in this prestigious competition. He Gang, the General Director of Huawei Consumer Business Group, addressed the audience with heartfelt congratulations, praising the winners as the torchbearers of the mobile photography era. He expressed sincere gratitude towards users of HUAWEI XMAGE, noting that it has evolved beyond mere documentation of life into a tool for emotional communication.

The XMAGE Awards, now in its eighth year, started in 2017 and has garnered participation from over 170 countries and regions, collecting nearly five million submissions to date. This year alone saw contributions from 86 countries, with over 650,000 entries submitted during a 131-day submission period. Notably, countries such as Malaysia, Turkey, the Philippines, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia submitted a significant number of entries, with HUAWEI Pura 70, P60, P40, and Mate 60 Series models dominating the participating devices.

During the award ceremony, 66 winning pieces were honored, including three grand prize winners, 18 category winners, and numerous second-place and special recognition entries. These captivating projects illustrated warmth, tranquility, and honesty, capturing the unique experiences and emotions of everyday individuals.

Revealing the Grand Prize Winners

The grand prize was awarded to three international photographers: Chen Yong from China, Justin Mendoza from the Philippines, and Kinga Choińska from Poland. Each received $10,000 in a creative fund to support their future artistic endeavors. Their pieces encapsulated breathtaking moments infused with creativity and imaginative expressions, touching the hearts of many.

As the judges reflected on the winners, they provided insightful commentary. Chen Xiaobo, Vice President of the China Photographers Association, noted the symbolism of a young girl climbing a ladder, representing power, movement, beauty, and a bright future. His words resonated with the audience, inspiring them to see the potential in every individual’s story.

Similarly, National Geographic photographer Keith Ladzinski highlighted the importance of spontaneity and composition in one photograph, showcasing a bird with a fishing hook. His appraisal emphasized how a fleeting moment can hold substantial meaning through thoughtful framing.

A Rich Visual Experience

The exhibition at Shenzhen Sea World Culture and Art Centre displayed over 300 exceptional works from the competition. The artworks were meticulously categorized into seven sections, each telling a story and inviting attendees to explore the marvels of photography. Running from November 27 to November 30, this showcase allowed art lovers to immerse themselves in visual storytelling, making personal connections with each photograph.

Chen Xiaobo emphasized that mobile photography's true essence transcends mere daily documentation; it invites deeper observation and personal philosophical reflections. He encouraged photographers to consider their work as part of an intimate dialogue with the world around them.

HUAWEI has continuously advocated for a culture of mobile photography by organizing global competitions, releasing trend reports, and offering community engagement initiatives. The brand aspires to create a supportive environment that facilitates meaningful exchanges among photographers worldwide, crossing cultural and linguistic boundaries.

For a complete list of winning entries from the 2024 HUAWEI XMAGE Awards, visit the official website: HUAWEI XMAGE Awards.

Conclusion

The HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2024 not only highlighted photography's emotional depth but also reinforced its status as a medium for genuine human connection. Through this celebration, every snapshot captured becomes part of a globally shared narrative.