Organised by the HCMC Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and HCMC Tourism magazine, the contest aims to introduce and market the city to the world through visual arts.

This year's contest is part of many cultural activities planned to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the city's liberation and 50 years of the country's tourism sector.

Themed “Sai Gon – Ho Chi Minh City: 24 Hours”, organisers hope the participants' photographs capture images that offer original and traditional perspectives.

Supported by local authorities and organisations, including the HCMC Photographers Association, the annual contest typically attracts participants from within and outside the country.

Through the event, participants and viewers can learn more about the power and reach of photography, which has a common language that needs no translation and provokes insights that words often struggle to convey.

The best photos from previous contests are presented to the public.

Last year, the contest, The Most Favourite Thing about HCMC generated huge interest among the photographic community and helped increase public awareness of the city's history, economy, culture and tourism sites.

Organisers said high priority would be given to entries focusing on creative and unique views and presentations.

Entries should be original works that have not been entered in previous competitions nor exhibited publicly.

Entries may be submitted as a single photograph, a set of photos, or as a photo essay or report. Each photo, in black-and-white or colour, should be printed 20cm by 30cm for the amateur and 25cm by 38cm for professional artists.

Two first prizes, one for amateurs and one for pros, will include VND7 million (US$350) each in cash and a tour of Thailand for one person. Second, third and consolation prizes will also be given.

Work can be sent to the organising Board of HCMC-The Hidden Charm III at 140 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, District 3. The deadline for receiving entries is March 31.

The award presentation ceremony and photo exhibition will be held early April at the city's Labour Cultural House and the 23/9 Park.