A photography contest has been added to the roster of events of a campus club that is more than a decade old. Southern Concepts, formerly known as the Ad Club, was started by then associate professor of art, David Noblett. The club, through seminars, speakers, tours, and other activities gives graphic design and advertising students a picture of the industry before they enter the workplace. Each year the club has held a Design Expo. in the spring. This year, Southern Concepts is hosting a photography contest that they hope will become an annual event in the fall.

“There is a lot of interest in photography from club members, so it was a natural selection” said Melissa Karsten, club president and senior studio and graphic arts major.

The contest is open to all Missouri Southern students, as well as college students within a 200-mile radius. The club has been mailing letters to regional schools, and soon posters will be posted around campus.

The fee to enter the contest is $7 for the first piece and $3 for each additional piece. Entries should be between five inches by seven inches and 11 inches by 14 inches. Entries can be in black and white or color. All entries must be submitted to the art department office by Oct. 23.

Photos will be judged by a jury and cash prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners. The amount of cash awarded to the winners is dependent on the number of entries.

The top 20 finalists will be shown in an exhibit running from Oct. 30 until Nov. 3 at a location to be determined. On Nov. 3, a closing reception will be held and the winners will be recognized.

“This is a good chance for people to get their photography judged, and for club members to organize a function,” Karsten said.

Committee members of this event hope to see a large number of entries to ensure its success.