Worldwide work illuminates on the pier

The Huntington Beach Pier will be specially illuminated Wednesday to create a picture-perfect scene for, appropriately, a photography exhibit.

The company that makes Red Bull energy drink is showcasing the work of photographers in the first of what it hopes to be an annual exhibit and contest.

The photographs in the “Illume” exhibition, which features action and sports images, will be displayed in glass and metal with the setting sun as a backdrop to create a dramatic lighting effect.

Danny Zapalac, a Long Beach photographer who is one of three Californians exhibiting in the competition, has three photographs in the tour. His photo of a bus station is in the top five in the lifestyle category. To view his photographs, visit www.dannyzapalac.com.

“I’m honored to be a part of it,” Zapalac said. “It’s always been a fantastic time working with [Red Bull].”

More than 7,200 submissions were received from more than 90 countries, according to Red Bull. Eleven of the winners were American photographers. The other winners from California were John Clark from Redwood City and Corey Rich from Lake Tahoe.

The judges narrowed down the competitors to 50 finalists — five finalists in 10 categories.

Wil Tidman, who assembled the exhibit for Red Bull, said he wanted to honor photographers who’ve been shooting but haven’t received exposure. He also wanted to “create a platform” in a “very unique setting.”

Visitors can vote on which photographs they think are best. To vote for your favorite photographer, text message illume01 to 72855 or visit www.redbullillume.com.

More stops are still being formalized and will be announced on www.redbullillume.com when available.