The 8th annual Faces of Evanston Photography and Video Contest is underway, and the theme of this year’s contest is ‘simplicity’.

The competition aims to capture the essence of the city through photos and videos that show what makes Evanston a community loved by so many. The contest, which runs from April 15 to August 31, is open to everyone -- professional and amateur -- but all photos must feature individuals or sites in Evanston.

A panel of independent judges will decide on the contest’s winners, and cash prizes ranging from $75 to $200 will be awarded. The public will be able to view the winning entries on Sept. 27 at a reception at the Noyes Culture Center.  The winning photos and video will also be displayed at several Evanston venues for the following 11 months, including the First Bank & Trust, 820 Davis St., in October.

Entrants can enter as many photos or videos as they want, but each requires a $5 entry fee.   Grade school and high school students in Evanston may enter up to five photos and one video free of charge. Complete rules regarding the contest, including sizes, registration, and other specific details can be seen on the contest’s website. Entrants are encouraged to read the rules carefully regarding their submissions.

Entries can be uploaded to the contest’s website or sent to or sent to Faces of Evanston Photo/Video contest, 636 Church St., St. 322, Evanston, IL  60201.

The Faces of Evanston Photography and Video Contest was started in 2005 by The Kiwanis Club of Evanston, under the direction of Dr. Stamata Blanas.

Several local organizations and businesses sponsor the contest.  They include:

• McGaw YMCA,  Voice of the People Award, Platinum Sponsor
• First Bank & Trust, Platinum Sponsor
• Downtown Evanston,  Platinum Sponsor
• St. Francis Hospital,Golden Sponsor
• Edward Jones;  Allegra Design Print  Signs, Silver Sponsor