Photography, the art of freezing moments, has become a universal language. With the advent of digital cameras and smartphones, almost everyone can try their hand at photography.
So if you want to stand out, joining a contest is the best way you can showcase your talent. You need more than just a camera and an eye for a good shot to get a photo contest win.
Read on if you're ready to secure a win and stay on the path to success.
1. Define Your Unique Style
Before you dive into the world of photo contests, why don't you take some time to explore your own style as a photographer? Consider the subjects, colors, or themes that resonate with you the most.
Remember that you shouldn't lose sight of your unique style. Whether you're going for moody black and white, dreamy landscapes, intimate portraits, or vibrant street photography, find what speaks to you. Your distinctive perspective and voice are what will set you apart from the others.
Develop a signature style that reflects your vision and personality. Let your originality and boldness shine through in the photo competition.
2. Master the Art of Composition
Composition is the backbone of any photograph. So to make your photos stand out, you need to study the rule of thirds, framing, leading lines, and balance. They will help you create a visually pleasing and balanced image.
Consider playing with different perspectives and experimenting with unconventional compositions. Go ahead and break the rules when it serves your artistic vision. Don't always place your subject in the center; make your photos more interesting and unpredictable.
Keep an eye on distractions and use composition to guide the viewer's eyes to the main subject. Catch the attention of the judges and make your photo memorable by experimenting with new compositions.
3. Learn Everything About Your Equipment
Understanding your camera from the inside out is an important step in improving your photography skills. Whether you're using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone, you should learn how to use its settings to your advantage.
The most important camera settings that you should know include:
Aperture
ISO
Shutter speed
Metering mode
Camera mode
Drive mode
Focus Mode
Focus Area
White balance
File format
Color space
Long-exposure noise reduction
High ISO noise reduction
Image stabilization
The more intimately you know your camera, the better you can manipulate it to capture the perfect shot. Familiarity with your equipment will help you capture those crucial split-second moments that can get you a photo contest win.
4. Tell a Compelling Story
A picture may be worth a thousand words. but a photo that tells a story can be worth a thousand awards. To create a winning image, seek out moments that convey a narrative.
Go ahead and capture the emotions in a candid moment, document a thought-provoking scene, or convey the grandeur of an event. Tell a story through your photographs and encourage viewers to engage with your image by inviting them to create their own stories around it.
5. Pay Attention to Lighting
Lighting can be your best friend or worst enemy. Having too much light in a photo can make it look more washed out and have very little detail in the highlights. On the other hand, too little light in the photo may look off due to the image being too dark.
So whether you use natural light or artificial sources, you need to understand how light works and how you can manipulate it. Consider experimenting with different times of day, angles, and light sources. You should also recognize the power of shadows in creating depth and mood in your photos.
Golden hour and soft natural lights are some of the best lighting conditions for stunning portraits and landscapes. However, don't shy away from challenging lighting conditions. Play around with low light, backlighting, and shadows to add depth and character to your photos.
6. Think Outside the Box
One of the most common mistakes that photographers make in contests is submitting cliche shots. While flowers, sunsets, and iconic landmarks are beautiful subjects, they've been captured multiple times before.
To get the attention of the judges, you should look for something extraordinary in the ordinary. So get creative with your framing and perspectives. Try capturing reflections, experimenting with unusual angles, or shooting through objects.
7. Focus on the Details
Sometimes, the beauty lies in the smallest of details. Macro photography focuses on extreme closeups of things you would normally never see.
It allows you to explore the intricate world of the unnoticed, like the texture of a leaf or the pattern of a butterfly's wings. By focusing on such details, you add depth and intimacy to your photos.
8. Post-Processing Magic
This is your secret weapon to refine and enhance your images. Familiarize yourself with editing software like Photoshop or Lightroom.
Use their tools to fine-tune the color balance, exposure, and contrast of your photo, but be sure to maintain a natural look. Subtle adjustments can help enhance your photo without making it look over-manipulated.
9. Get Feedback and Improve
Photography is a journey of continuous learning and growth, so consider seeking constructive feedback. You can get them from your peers, family, mentors, or online communities.
Don't be disheartened by rejection or criticism. Instead, use it as a chance to improve your skills and continue evolving as a professional photographer.
10. Research and Find the Right Contests
Not all contests are the same, varying in rules, themes, and judging criteria. So be sure to do your research and find a contest that aligns with your interest and photography style.
Here are a few contests that you can enter:
GuruShots Photo Contest
Istanbul Photo Awards
Sony World Photography Awards
iPhone Photography Awards
Drone Photo Awards
SE Center Calls for Entry
Note that picking contests that resonate with you allows you to submit photos that genuinely reflect your creativity and passion.
Secure a Photo Contest Win With The SE Center for Photography
As stated earlier, photography is all about learning and improving your skills. If you're ready to learn new skills, showcase your talents, and connect with fellow artists, the SE Center for Photography is here for you! We've got photography classes, workshops, and exhibition opportunities.
Consider joining our current photography exhibits and contests and grab yourself a photo contest win. All you have to do is ready your photos and submit them!
