The partial lunar eclipse which will be witnessed in the country on June 26 is a much-awaited event not only for those who are interested in astronomy but for everyone – especially to photographers – as Seven Suites Hotel Observatory, in cooperation with Hollywood Steak House, launches a “Partial Lunar Eclipse” photo competition.

This contest is very apt for Seven Suites since this is the only hotel-cum-observatory in the country. Its telescope is the fourth most powerful in the country — after the telescopes of PAGASA, UP NISMED, and an observatory in Baguio. The 12-inch diameter telescope located at the hotel’s rooftop is sure to bring the wonder of this astral phenomenon closer to you.

The competition is open to all amateur, hobbyists, professional film/digital photographers. A registration fee of P250 comes with free iced tea, assorted canapés and use of the telescope. Photos must be taken during the night of June 26, and should not have won nor have been published in any book or magazine. There will betwo categories: the Eclipse Category and the Best Nighttime shot of the skyline/ city lights.

Participants may use any digital or film-based camera. Entries must be printed in full color on any brand of photo paper in 8R size. Manually retouched and/or painted over print outputs are not allowed. Creative effects done within the camera at the time of exposure (e.g., multiple exposures, flash fill, lighting, filtration, etc.) are allowed. Digital retouching on density, contrast adjustments, minor cropping, burning, and dodging may be tolerated, although major manipulation of main images through adding or subtracting are not allowed.

The contest will start at 6 p.m. on June 26 at the Observatory deck of the hotel. Deadline for submission of entries is on June 30 at The Seven Suites Hotel Observatory located in Antipolo City.
For more information, contact 682-0330, 682-2076, or visit www.sevensuites.net.