Are you an MLS student with a passion for photography or do you simply love taking holiday snaps? You’re in luck! Our exciting photo competition invites you to capture the beauty, history, and vibrant life of Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Greece, or Germany. Whether it’s the romantic landscapes of Tuscany, the lively flamenco dancers of Seville, or the majestic castles of Bavaria, there’s a world of inspiration waiting for your lens. This is your chance to showcase your skills and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of these stunning countries. So grab your camera, dive into the heart of Europe, and let your creativity shine!
Italy, a land of artistic marvels and culinary delights, beckons photographers to capture its timeless allure. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the ancient ruins of Rome, every corner tells a story.
Start your Italian journey in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Frame the iconic Duomo against a golden sunset, or capture the intricate details of Michelangelo’s David.
Venture south to the Amalfi Coast, where colourful villages cling to dramatic cliffs. Here, you can capture the interplay of light and water, creating images that embody the Mediterranean spirit. Don’t forget to document the local food scene – a plate of fresh pasta or a perfectly crafted espresso can tell a compelling visual story about Italian culture.
Spain’s passionate culture and diverse landscapes offer a treasure trove of photographic opportunities. From bustling cities to sun-soaked coastlines, Spain’s vibrant spirit shines through in every frame.
Begin your Spanish adventure in Barcelona, where Gaudí’s whimsical architecture provides a playground for creative compositions. Capture the intricate details of the Sagrada Família or the colourful mosaics of Park Güell. These architectural marvels offer a chance to experiment with angles and perspectives.
Head south to Andalusia, where flamenco dancers twirl in dimly lit tavernas. Here, you can capture the passion and energy of Spanish culture through motion blur and dramatic lighting. Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the stunning Moorish architecture of the Alhambra in Granada, especially during the golden hour.
For a taste of rural Spain, explore the windmill-dotted landscapes of La Mancha. These iconic structures, made famous by Don Quixote, offer a chance to create minimalist compositions that speak to Spain’s literary heritage.
Germany’s picturesque castles and serene lakes offer a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. These landscapes provide endless opportunities for creating captivating images that transport viewers to a world of fairy tales and tranquillity.
Start your German journey at
Castle, the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Capture its majestic spires rising above the mist-shrouded Bavarian forest for a truly magical shot. For the best vantage point, hike up to Mary’s Bridge (Marienbrücke) early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the soft light.
Next, head to the Black Forest region, home to numerous lakes and charming villages. Lake Titisee, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding pine forests, offers stunning opportunities for landscape photography.
Don’t miss the chance to photograph the colourful half-timbered houses in towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber. These medieval architectural gems provide a perfect backdrop for street photography that captures the essence of traditional German culture.
Portugal’s coastline, stretching over 1,700 kilometres, boasts some of Europe’s most stunning beaches. From dramatic cliffs to golden sands, these coastal landscapes offer photographers a wealth of compositional possibilities.
Begin your Portuguese beach adventure at the Algarve, known for its iconic limestone cliffs and hidden coves. The Benagli Cave with its natural oculus letting in a shaft of light, provides a unique opportunity for dramatic seascape photography. Experiment with long exposures to capture the movement of waves against the rocky shore.
France, a country synonymous with art and culture, offers photographers a chance to capture the essence of creativity. From iconic landmarks to hidden artistic gems, France is a visual feast waiting to be explored.
Start your artistic journey in Paris, the City of Light. Capture the Eiffel Tower from unique angles, or frame it through the clock face of the Musée d’Orsay for a creative twist. Inside the Louvre, challenge yourself to photograph famous artworks in new ways, focusing on details or visitor reactions rather than straightforward shots.
Venture to the south of France, where Van Gogh and Cézanne found inspiration. In Provence, capture the vibrant lavender fields that influenced these masters.
Don’t forget to document France’s living art scene. Street performers in Montmartre, jazz musicians in dimly lit Parisian clubs, or contemporary art installations offer opportunities to capture France’s ongoing artistic legacy.
Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, offers a unique blend of ancient history and vibrant modern culture. This contrast provides photographers with diverse subjects, from millennia-old ruins to passionate displays of traditional dance.
Begin your Greek odyssey in Athens, where the Acropolis stands as a testament to ancient glory. Capture the Parthenon at different times of day to showcase how changing light transforms this iconic structure. For a modern twist, juxtapose ancient ruins against the city’s contemporary skyline.
Move to the Greek islands, each with its unique character. In Santorini, capture the famous blue-domed churches against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea.
Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph Greek traditions. Capture the energy of traditional syrtaki dancers, the intensity of Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations, or the simple pleasure of a family gathering in a taverna. These moments of passion and connection truly embody the Greek spirit.
Are you ready to join the competition and showcase your photographic talent? Here’s how to enter:
Select Your Best Work: Choose a photo that captures the essence of one of the eligible countries: Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Greece, or Germany.
Submit Your Entries: Submit your photos by email to info@modernlanguageschool.co.uk by Monday 8th September. Please ensure your images are high resolution. By entering this competition you are giving us permission to use your photo both online or in print.
Judging: Three photos from each country will be chosen by the teachers at MLS which will then be sent to our main judge, a local photographer, who will select the winning photo from each country.
Prizes and Recognition: Winners will be announced by the end of September and the winning photos will be made into prints to be displayed at the school.
Don’t miss this opportunity to share your unique perspective and celebrate the beauty of Europe through your lens!
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