Lowepro re-thinks competition rules after DPNow visitors raise concerns

[DPNow]

Here is a summary or excerpt from an article that has just been published on DPNow:

Lowepro's newly-announced photography competition attracted controversy last week when a DPNow reader spotted that the competition rules appeared to lay huge claims on any photograph entered. We brought this to Lowepro's attention and the good news is that they have acknowledged the problem and promised to reassure photographers and have a re-think of the rules.

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[Ian]

Re: Lowepro re-thinks competition rules after DPNow visitors raise concerns

I'm very pleased that Lowepro has taken this seriously and realised that competition rules have become something of a liability.

They expressed an interest in any feedback and suggestions, so let me know if you would like your views forwarded on.

Ian

[John H. Maw]

Re: Lowepro re-thinks competition rules after DPNow visitors raise concerns

Is it much better than before when this passage still stands (this is from their new T&Cs).

"Entrants agree that they will not use the Entry for any other purpose, including, without limitation, posting the Entry to any online social networks, without the express consent of Sponsors in each instance."

Their statement that "Lowepro has no intention whatsoever of depriving photographers of ownership or future rights of their images" seems at odds with the previous passage. Yes. It's your image. You just can't do anything with it (and we can) seems to be the message.

In fact I consider that this competition will only be worth entering when the word "Entry" is replaced in all cases with the term "Winning entry".

[Ian]

Re: Lowepro re-thinks competition rules after DPNow visitors raise concerns

I agree completely and will again put these observations to Lowepro.

Ian

[John H. Maw]

Re: Lowepro re-thinks competition rules after DPNow visitors raise concerns

Hi Ian.

The three key elements remain the same as before. They can use the images as they want, including modifying them and even having other images made that completely copy the idea behind the entry image. The photographer can do nothing with the image once submitted. This applies to every image entered and not just those receiving a prize.

The excuse that the lawyers were to blame is lame in the extreme. Just how stupid to they think we are?

After reading the original T&Cs I had the attitude that this was just a competition worth avoiding, but this response from them makes it worse. It now suggests a cynical disregard and contempt for photographers.

John (Disgusted of Denham)