The Queensland Community Foundation (QCF) is calling all photographers, amateur or professional, to pick up a camera for a cause.

Submissions for the 2018 QCF Philanthropy in Focus Photo Challenge is now open, accepting photos that reflect philanthropy in Queensland and bring awareness to critical issues. Images submitted can be realistic or conceptual, specific or broad, and can represent an act of compassion, or highlight a specific issue.

The QCF was established more than 20 years ago as an enduring source of funds to invest in various charities and serve those in need. The photography competition is run in conjunction with the annual QCF Philanthropy Week, which runs from 8 to 15 June.

Chair of QCF sub-fund the Toowoomba Regional Community Fund, Joy Mingay, encouraged Toowoomba and Darling Downs residents to participate.

“Everyone these days has a camera on their phone, so it’s easy,” she said. “You will be helping QCF highlight some of the good work being done in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs,” said Mingay.

“Photographers can team up with non-profit organisations, or they can operate on their own. The photograph needs to tell a story which celebrates and inspires giving, kindness and compassion. We all know how extraordinarily generous Toowoomba people are in supporting those in need, and I’m sure there are some wonderful photographers in the region who can capture some of that giving attitude in an image.”

The 2017 prize was awarded to Cystic Fibrosis Queensland (CFQ), along with photographer Alberto Rego. The winning shot was taken when CFQ and the Mauli Ola Foundation provided a day at the Gold Coast with surfing professionals to teach children with cystic fibrosis to surf.

Other 2017 finalists included Diabetes Queensland, The Fig Tree Children, and Women’s Legal Service.

Submissions for the 2018 competition close on Friday 27 April, and the winning entry will receive a $2000 donation for the charity of their choice and a $500 prize for the photographer.

Visit the QCF website for more information on how to enter.

Readers also enjoyed this story about Toowoomba photographer Sarah Ryan.