Shooftv.com to sponsor new Ibda'a category

Shooftv.com, the Middle East's only User Generated Content (UGC) online platform, will sponsor a new category at the Ibda'a Media Student Awards 2008, the region's most recognised distinction for emerging industry talent.

For the first time, Mobile Films – videos made with a mobile phone – will take pride of the place next to digital photography, animation and filmmaking amongst 11 categories at the annual competition.

The Mobile Phone category will showcase the narrative techniques and production methods made possible by mobile phones, according to Shooftv.com General Manager Khadeeja Al Marzooqi.

She said: "Our initiative comes out of our keenness to help Ibda'a recognise this new generation of pioneering artists. The restrictions placed on mobile phone video makers, from the size of the image to the possible length of takes, represent exciting new possibilities. Because every limitation spawns creative solutions, mobile phones are a cutting-edge way for people around the world to express themselves without resorting to the expense of hiring equipment and crew. So much can be done in post-production that there are truly limitless amounts of creative tampering that can take place, resulting in something that pushes the envelope in terms of story and format."

"Since Shooftv.com is all about the unrestricted sharing of art and expression, we saw this category as a perfect fit. We have showcased mobile films since our inception and will continue to look for new and innovative visual storytelling formats to keep Shoof fresh and fun."

Established in 2001 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Ibda'a awards invite undergraduate media students from around the world to enter their work in a range of formats.

Organised annually by Dubai Media City, a member of Tecom Investments, in partnership with the International Advertising Association (IAA), the competition will culminate in a celebration in Dubai in November 2008 that will showcase outstanding submissions to the awards and see winners walk away with attractive cash prizes, internships, and coveted equipment.

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.