As the snow begins to melt away in the spring warmth, a myriad of forgotten items are revealed: beer bottles, soggy cigarette butts, blackened banana peels, you name it, it’s out there.
The problem is so glaring that one local photographer has decided to make a statement about Whistler’s reputation as a “green” community, creating a photo competition that focuses on garbage around town.
Arne Gutmann is organizing his third Clik photo competition, which gives participants just 24 hours to take their photos using a disposable camera.
Gutmann says he chose the theme not only to bring attention to the issue of garbage in Whistler, but to break away from typical Whistler photo themes, like backcountry skiing, snowboarding and landscapes.
“They’re always so much fun, and if it’s a theme its really so much more interesting,” Gutmann explained.
Also, by setting a 24-hour time limit and giving everyone the same equipment, Gutmann says the playing field between professional and amateur photographers is levelled.
“Your gear dictates the quality of your imagery and the amount of stuff that you have,” said Gutmann.
An amateur photographer won the last Clik competition in February for her snapshot of snow, and walked away with a snowboard, hoodie and toque for her efforts, valued at approximately $1,000. Second prize went to a local professional photographer.
Participants pay $20 to register, and are given a disposable camera coded with a sticker to capture a photo that represents the chosen theme.
The competition runs from noon on Friday, April 18 until noon on Saturday, April 19, and the finished products will be exhibited on a video display at the Crystal Lounge on Tuesday, April 22.
For more information on the competition, visit www.clikcontest.com .
