My favorite kind of exhibits are  the ones of true discovery.  I like scouring galleries looking for the next piece to add to my modest collection and then sounding particularly cool at a dinner party by mentioning a photographer I suggest to keep an eye out for.  Shows like FACE/OFF, a photography and video competition showcasing the up-and-comers of this industry,  are a perfect avenue to get the pulse of things.

Smashbox Studios is hosting the opening night reception this Thursday for the FACE/OFF show, where 50 innovative photographers and 25 filmmakers will have their work presented.  From there, the judges will award prizes.  The final 50 will also be exhibited at Smashbox West Hollywood from Dec. 9 to 23, as well as at the 2012 PhotoLA exhibit from Jan. 12 to 16  and at the W Los Angeles in Westwood  from Jan. 18  to April 15.

Thursday’s event will include a judges’ panel discussion from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., with  the reception running until midnight.

Photo: Beautiful Friends.  Credit: Mario Torres