The Lebanese Regie for Tobacco launched the fourth edition of its photography contest, “Manchar Souwar,” following a six-year hiatus. This edition — the first since 2019 — is held under the theme “Whispering Faces.”
Photography amateurs, enthusiasts and professionals are invited to take part by capturing “tobcacco farmers’ expressions, revealing the untold tales of dedication, perseverance and the deep connection to the land.”
In a statement, the Regie said that this “developmental initiative”, which was launched nine years ago as part of its commitment to sustainable development and attracted more than 650 photographers in its 2016, 2017 and 2019 editions, “aims at embracing and supporting creative talents, enhancing the skills of the youth and shedding light on the social and economic importance of the tobacco cultivation sector.”
A professional judging panel will evaluate the photos taken by the participants and select the winners. The first-prize winner will receive $3,000, while the second and third-prize winners will be awarded $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.
Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their work in an exhibition scheduled for September 2025, during which the competition results will be announced and the prizes formally awarded.
The Regie explained that those interested must register their participation by sending a text message to the Regie Official Number (71100014) with their name, phone number and email address.
Participants must also open an account on the Regie’s official website www.regie.com.lb/Manchar-souwar and upload their photos between May 1st and July 15th, 2025 at the latest.
Moreover, participants are required to schedule individual visits to tobacco fields in the North, South or Bekaa by contacting its representatives at the numbers published on its website, according to the scheduled visit dates in each region.
The Regie noted that the ideal time to visit the fields and take pictures is from mid-April to mid-June in the North and South, and from mid-May to mid-July for the Bekaa, adding that for optimal shooting results, it is recommended to visit the fields in the early morning.
Among the key conditions for participation outlined in the statement, the Regie emphasized the importance of obtaining the farmer’s consent before photographing them and securing their written consent for the use of photos taken of them.
The statement also specified that it is prohibited to photograph “a pregnant woman or any child under the age of 18” and that “the photos must adhere to ethical and legal standards, and should not include any abuse, violations of human rights, or damage to the environment.”