SHARJAH — Feb. 10 promises to be a red-letter day for the world of photography as Sharjah gears to stage the fifth edition of Xposure, the globally renowned International Photography Festival. The hugely popular event promises an exciting week for experts as well as amateurs and enthusiasts, as it brings together the best photographers from across the region and around the world, presenting their vision of the events and people who have impacted the world. Hosted by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) at Expo Centre Sharjah from Feb. 10 to 13, Xposure 2021 will feature a gamut of activities including photography competitions, exhibitions, expert reviews, trade exhibitions, outdoor exhibitions and professional workshops and lectures by some of the biggest names in the field. It will offer enthusiasts of the art a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn and imbibe from experts the latest knowledge and techniques and the latest trends in international photography. The event, which is considered MENA’s leading photography forum and educational platform for both professional and aspiring photographers and media artists, will transform the halls of Expo Centre Sharjah into an artistic space which will not only provide an opportunity for the public to get acquainted with the work of the most prominent photographers in the world, but also offer an inspiring environment to learn and imbibe various photographic skills from the great masters themselves. The festival will be held in line with the UAE’s stringent precautionary measures against COVID-19. Mandatory measures being followed include sterilization of the premises, installation of disinfection gates at entry points, and provision of face masks and hand sanitizers, among others. Speaking about the upcoming edition of Xposure, Tariq Saeed Allay, director of SGMB, said: "After being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Xposure is back again, bringing the works of the world’s best photographers to you in keeping with Sharjah’s tradition of striving to make our events and offerings more interesting year after year. Photography enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to view the world through the eyes of these gifted practitioners of the art who have charted new paths in the domain.” He added: “Thanks to technology becoming more accessible than ever, photography is now an essential part of most people’s lives, not practised only by a select few on their artistic pursuits. The camera lens opens a window on to the world and, through its images, has the power to transport us to the remotest corners of the globe. We are certain that Xposure 2021 will be rewarding for both photography professionals and the general enthusiast,” he added. The Xposure International Photography Festival has in a very short time established itself as a premier global event dedicated to celebrating the art of photography and expanding professional frontiers for aspiring professionals in the region. It is widely regarded and respected by top photographers and experts as well as major photography companies around the world for its diversity, technical excellence, professional integrity and, above all, for the attractive prizes and opportunities the platform offers. — SG