Sony Middle East and Africa has launched a new nationwide photography competition for students in the UAE, inviting them to look beyond the obvious and capture life’s often overlooked details. Titled “The Art of Noticing,” the competition celebrates World Photography Day by encouraging participants to pause, observe, and transform subtle moments into enduring visual stories.
Open to students across the country, regardless of their course of study or chosen device, the competition aims to champion creativity and perspective rather than technical credentials. Whether it’s an unnoticed gesture, a quiet corner of the city, or fleeting urban details, Sony wants entrants to reflect the quiet poetry embedded in everyday life.
Students from institutions including the American University of Dubai, Amity University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, Middlesex University Dubai, SAE Institute, and the University of Wollongong Dubai have already signed up, but Sony emphasises that the competition is open to all students aged 18 and over enrolled in UAE educational institutions, including online programmes.
Running from July 1 to July 31, 2025, the competition will recognise three winners with Sony camera gear. All submitted works will be showcased on the Sony World website, giving participants an opportunity to reach a wider audience. Additionally, students entering the competition can access a 15% discount on Sony products via the Sony World platform.
According to Sony, the initiative seeks to encourage both beginners and emerging creators to engage in a broader creative dialogue by sharing their unique perspectives. While technical skill can enhance an image, the competition prioritises narrative impact, composition, and emotional resonance over gear or experience level.
To participate, students can submit their entries directly through the dedicated page.
As visual storytelling continues to evolve beyond traditional boundaries, Sony’s “Art of Noticing” offers a timely reminder that impactful photography often lies in simplicity and authenticity rather than spectacle.
