Lishui hosts China Int'l Photo Expo

Prizes have been issued, over 200 exhibitions held, and 6,000 pictures from more than 100 countries and regions showcased here.

The town Lishui in east China's Zhejiang province has been a Mecca for photographers in recent days at the 15th China International Photo Expo. 200,000 industry insiders and aficionados have attended the 5-day event, which has featured a plethora of exhibitions and activities.

Prizes have been issued, over 200 exhibitions held, and 6,000 pictures from more than 100 countries and regions showcased here. In addition, various forums have provided a chance for professionals to learn from masters of the trade. Industry insiders and amateurs have also come in droves.

"We're from the Photography Association of Italy. We've been here several times, and there are 18 of us this time. We are interested in Chinese culture, so it's a wonderful experience here at the expo." Photographer said.

This is the fifth time for Lishui to host the expo, which has boosted social and economic development in the region. 54-year-old Chen Lili, an amateur local photographer, has won acclaim for her photos of the terraces in nearby Yunhe county. Shot in 2004, this photo is particularly close to her heart, as it prompted the local government to beautify the 1,000-year-old terraces.

Chen Lili, China Photography Assoc., said, "My three computers and two terabyte hard disks are packed with my photos of the terraces. I was so honored when the terraces finally became a scenic spot."

The Yunhe Terraces have received half a million visitors since June of 2011, bringing revenue of 3.5 million yuan to the area. This picture of a farmer carrying two baskets of radishes has boosted sales of the vegetable, which is produced in the local mountains. Photographs of the region's gorgeous mountain views have also helped lure travellers and photographers to Lishui and nearby villages. 22 bases for photography have been set up, with the number of visitors nearly 20 times as many as 10 years ago.

Zhu Chen, Deputy Secretary of CPC Committee, Lishui, said, "We've held five sessions of the expo in the past ten years. We aim to build a prestigious brand, both in terms of academics and photography."

From unknown to well known, the trade of photography has put the otherwise anonymous town of Lishui on the map for photographers and travellers from both home and abroad.