Nominated for National Geographic Award
Border Crossing, Berdzor (Lachin), Kashatagh (Armenian-controlled Republic of Azerbaijan) © Onnik Krikorian
In a country where it’s almost impossible to work professionally as a photojournalist unless you have “contacts” in international organizations, NGOs and/or funding bodies, some good news. Recently, Andy Patrick, the Founder and Executive Director of Fifty Crows, was looking for new work to submit as a nomination to National Geographic’s All Road’s Award. Unexpectedly, Ara Oshagan, one of my favorite photographers, and certainly the best dealing with Armenian themes, was kind enough to suggest me.
I would highly recommend photographer Onnik Krikorian who lives and works in Armenia. He is one of the most talented photographers and journalists in the country and constantly covering serious social issues that very few are even approaching. I think his work is of significant importance to a developing country like Armenia and an internationally recognized award would take Onnik’s efforts to a much needed next level.
So, after submitting ten low resolution photos for Andy Patrick’s consideration, on Sunday I heard that my nomination has been accepted and I was asked to send 15 high resolution photographs for National Geographic to consider. To be honest, I don’t think I stand a snowball’s chance in hell of winning, but at the same time, Ara’s appreciation of my work and the fact that Andy Patrick has decided to nominate me is enough already.
Incidently, the photo story I entered was on settlement in Lachin (now renamed Berdzor), the strategic town situated between Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh in territory under Armenian control. Anyway, wish me luck.
Berdzor (Lachin), Berdzor (Lachin), Kashatagh (Armenian-controlled Republic of Azerbaijan) © Onnik Krikorian