When judging contest entries, there are definite criteria that we look for in choosing those images that have the greatest impact. Having this information in the back of your mind even before you click the shutter can result in more professional images.
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© Carlos Malvas - Sidewalk/Street Textures |
First, I suggest that you read my critiquing article (http://doubleexposure.com/CritBoutique.shtml)
There are many similarities between what you look for in critiquing an image and with how one judges winning images for contests.
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© Jim Mckinnis - Humor |
For a simple reference (and in the order in which I view it), here is my quick 10-point checklist of criteria for judging those winning images:
1. First Impact - since images are first viewed as thumbnails, I am first seduced and enticed by the small thumbnail. It's that first impact of the thumbnail that draws me to look further.
2. Strength - does it feel like a solid work of art that could be hung in a gallery setting?
3. Senses - are my senses affected? do I feel an emotional reaction?
4. Simplicity - is there an uncluttered focal point that is obvious to the viewer where the subject draws me in? Busy images with too many distractions are immediately eliminated.
5. Story - is my imagination provoked; do I want to know more?
6. Objective - does the image relate to the contest objective?
7. Technical - no blown-out highlights or overly dark shadows, sharpness where it needs to be, the time of day adds or detracts, subject stands out from the background, with important details in focus.
8. Cropping - was the best cropping choice presented? Many people do not even crop their images. Position two white pieces of paper on either side of an image, horizontally or vertically, to see where best to crop for added strength.
9. Color/B&W - test both. Does the color choice add value to the overall image?
10. Marks - are spots, lines, fly-away hairs, poles, dirt, background clutter— even unwanted people—removed that distracts your eye from the main focal point? Keep images clean and simple! Use Photoshop to remove those elements that are unnecessary to the image's impact.
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© CJ Groth - Creative Blur |
For any questions or personal help with your own images, please contact Judith here:
Judith@photoworkshop.com
http://judith.photoworkshop.com
Let us know if you found this article useful, and tell us what kinds of articles you'd like to see in upcoming issues. Send your comments and ideas to Lynne Eodice.
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