Photographers are given a little more support

The Sony World Photography Awards have joined a campaign to protect the rights of photographers.

The competition is now publicly listed on Pro-imaging's website as a supporter of the Bill of Rights.

"Our competition was established to support, praise and help professional and amateur photographers so it's essential we respect the fact that it's their work we're using and their rights," said Scott Gray, Managing Director of the Sony World Photography Awards.

The Sony competition launched last week and they passed Pro-imaging's Bill of Rights easily, something which many other competitions haven't done successfully.

"Pro-imaging are doing a great job but it will be tough converting every organisation. But many of the photographers I have spoken to are delighted that someone has taken the time to help photographers keep their rights," explained Scott. "With the internet and digital imaging it's easier to copy work and as a result it's essential companies like ours act responsibly."

Nine organisations from the UK, USA, Sweden and New Zealand now openly support Pro-imaging's campaign which began in March. The campaign has had a hand in changing many competition rules the latest of which is from software giants Microsoft.

Gordon Harrison works for Pro-imaging and he had this to say: "We view this development as an excellent outcome following a recent meeting between Microsoft and Pro-Imaging."

Microsoft's, Ford Fiesta Shopping Spree and their Ford Fiesta Art Competition now have the green light from Pro-imaging.  The contests now sit among the other competitions Pro-imaging see fit for photographers to enter.

Pro-imaging added: "Pro-Imaging would like to thank the Sony World Photography Awards for their support.  We are sure it will aid us in our quest to have The Bill of Rights accepted as an industry standard of best practice with regard to competitions treatment of photographers rights."

To learn more about Pro-imaging and their Bill of Rights visit their website.