Lens at the ready, shutterbugs. The Canon Photomarathon, which usually takes place in September, returns for its 16th edition on Jul 28 at Suntec City Convention Hall.

The best thing about this competition is that it doesn't discriminate. So if you're just a novice who's still trying to figure out the kind of photography you're into (and pretty much taking all the "cliche" shots that've been done to death; but hey, we've all gotta start somewhere, right?), or a pro whose gear is as heavy as a couple of potato sacks put together, everything is fair-game.

Besides holding the event two months earlier, Canon has another change to the marathon to make the 16th edition a little more special. For one, the event will kick off at 11am instead of the usual 7am because they've incorporated a "dusk" challenge as the final theme, which will be announced at 5pm. But the format remains the same: There will be three themes that will be announced at the event itself, after which they'll have a good three hours to run around the city to conceptualize and actualize the perfect shot.

It's going to be a test of both mental and physical endurance in this full-day affair; but more than that, it'll be a great opportunity to meet other photographers of different levels from Singapore, exchange tips and make friends. Tickets are priced at $15 to participate solo in the Open Challenge, or $60 for a team of four. Register here.

Check out last year’s winning entries here.