National Zoo and Fujifilm Invite Photographers to Take Their Best Shot!

If you have ever tried to capture a picture-perfect image of the National Zoo’s giant pandas or wondered how the Zoo’s photographers snap beguiling photos of animals as diverse as elephants and naked mole-rats, now is your chance to learn the tricks of the trade in a photo-challenge discussion hosted by the Zoo and Fujifilm, sponsor of the Fujifilm Giant Panda Habitat.

Beginning now, photographers from the Zoo, Fujifilm and Friends of the National Zoo’s Photo Club will post challenging photography topics on the Zoo’s Web site and invite aspiring photographers to submit their questions and comments. The pros will post their answers and suggestions, along with a new topic, every other month. Topics may range from photographing animals in snow to lighting techniques and the proper use of a flash.

Shutterbugs are also invited to submit their favorite photos of the National Zoo’s giant pandas for a chance to be featured on the Zoo’s Web site and win various prizes. Every other month up to 25 photos will be selected at random to be featured in a gallery on the Zoo’s Web site. Of those selected, one sweepstakes winner will be randomly chosen to receive a camera, photography equipment, or other prizes provided by Fujifilm. A total of six winners will be named throughout the yearlong photo challenge.

Photos must be submitted electronically via the Zoo’s Web site, and participants can enter up to three photos per month. The photos must feature the National Zoo’s pandas and must be recent or have been taken within the last six months.

The photo challenge runs from January to December 2009.