Attending the first week is very important. We will be discussing the details about Kerrville and the requirements needed to complete the images.
Impact- Is there something about the print that catches a judge’s eye as soon as it is shown? Does it have an element of excitement? Critical points can be earned up front if the print has good impact and “breaks the boredom” for the judges.
Creativity- The concept as well as the print itself should demonstrate creativity on your part. The image should show that you did more than just copy some other photographer’s style.
Unique & Interesting Style- This goes along with the initial impact. Does your print reflect a style of Photography that is interesting and unique?
Correct Composition- A dead-centered, static-looking print will never fly. Utilize the “rule of thirds” when composing your image. The viewer’s eye should naturally be drawn to the center of attention.
Good Color Balance- Colors should be realistic and lifelike. White areas should be white and black areas should be black. Colors should harmonize and not clash.
Correct Lighting- Basic lighting principles should be followed. If a subject needs short lighting, then it should be used. The light used for “modeling” should be properly placed and should show you have a firm command of correct lighting technique.
Outstanding Subject Matter- Judges see tons of prints of women and children and brides because those seem to be the most popular types of subject matter photographed and entered. So, if you photograph something that a lot of other people are using, try to find a subject that is really extraordinary and that stands out among the rest.
Exceptional Print Quality- if your lab is unfamiliar with printing competition prints, find one that is! Remember that a good print starts with a good negative (or digital file). It must be properly exposed before the lab can do the best job of printing. You should view your prints under lighting conditions similar to those at the print judging itself to make sure it will not “wash out” under the bright judging lights. Also, avoid the traditional flat matte finish. Consider a very high gloss finish.
Make a Statement or Tell a Story- A print that tells a story or makes a statement is more exciting and interesting than just a nice print of a nice looking person. The image should stir the emotions and imagination of the judges. Therefore, the title can often be as important as the print itself. Be as creative as possible when coming up with a title. Make sure it goes with the image.
Center of Attention- The judge’s eyes should naturally be drawn to a center of attention which is the main subject matter. Any leading lines should lead to that point without making the judge’s eyes jump back and forth around the image.
Watch Out For- Watch out for poor subject matter, poorly posed hands, cropping that is too close, poor clothing selections, obvious artwork and titles that don’t match the image.
Most Importantly- Follow the rules to the letter!
Check out the new links we added today
Added 7-15-2010
Links to Database and Web source for photographers:
PDN Photosource: http://www.pdnonline.com/pdn/photoserve/index.jsp
Workbook: http://www.workbook.com
Blackbook: http://www.blackbook.com
_____________________________________________________________________
Added 6-25-2010
A Photo Editor.com http://www.aphotoeditor.com/ - Former Art Buyers and current photography consultants Amanda Sosa Stone and Suzanne Sease have agreed to take anonymous questions from photographers and not only give their expert advice but put it out to a wide range of photographers, reps and art buyers to gather a variety of opinions. The goal with this column is to solicit honest questions and answers through anonymity.
Ginny’s Printing http://www.ginnysprinting.com/
House of Portfolios http://www.houseofportfolios.com/ custom portfolios
Chase Jarvis http://blog.chasejarvis.com/blog/ behind the scenes photography
Brewer/Cantelm http://www.brewer-cantelmo.com/ custom portfolios
Jewel Cases calendar-case.com:80/index.php
Colored Jewel Cases cdrack.stores.yahoo.net/jccd.html
-
Successful Self-Promotion for Photographers – Elyse Weissberg
-
2010 Photographer’s Market – Editors of Writer’s Digest Books
-
The Photographer’s Market Guide to Building Your Photography Business (Photographers Market Guide to Building) – Vik Orenstein
-
Best Business Practices for Photographers, Second Edition – John Harrington
-
ASMP Professional Business Practices in Photography, 7th Edition - American Society of Media Photographers
