Calling all photographers: CMHR asks Canadians to submit their photos

If you want to see your work on the walls of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, now is your chance.

The CMHR is calling on Canadians to send in their photos to help create a new exhibition.

The Points of View exhibition invites photos representing four different themes: freedom of expression, inclusion and diversity, reconciliation and finally, human rights and the environment.

All submissions will be posted on the CMHR website, and a jury-selected handful will be hung on the walls of the museum for the physical exhibition, set to open next year.

Helen Delacretaz, the museum's manager of exhibitions, said the showcase reflects the way social media is changing the museum experience.

"I watch people in museums and I see that it's very much not only about looking at what's on the walls or what's on display, but also showing your participation with it, whether it's a selfie against it or just a picture of what you're seeing that gets uploaded onto some social media site to share your experience of being in that exhibit or seeing that piece of work of art," she said.

Delacretaz said the process is designed to be "egalitarian." Images must be submitted electronically, but photographers can use any device they like, from smartphones to film cameras.

"The majority of residents in Canada, I would say, have access to a camera to participate," she said. "You don't need to be a professional photographer for this, though they are welcome to participate as well."

"It truly is open to any resident in Canada to participate."

All photos that make it to the physical gallery will be eligible for cash awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. The jury selecting winners will be comprised of human rights experts, artists and photojournalists, except for one "People's Choice" award to be selected by viewers.

Submissions will be accepted until December 31, and the exhibition will open on July 1 next year.