There is nothing more pleasing to a photographer than having their work admired by others.
Competitions allow this with the bonus of actually winning first prize.
How do you make sure that your photos are up there with the rest and remain competitive? Entering a photo competition is always fun and a little nerve wracking.
Which photos should you enter and how do you decide are key questions.
Besides the monetary gain there is such a buzz when you win.
It does wonders for self-esteem.
Who knows, winning a competition may be your first step into a career in photography.
So what does it take to enter? 1.
Read the rules You would think that this basic requirement for entering competitions would be obvious.
But it's not.
Many entries are disqualified just because of basic rule violations.
What's the point of taking time and effort to create an entry and then have it disqualified? 2.
Think Don't just jump at the thought of entering and shoot the first idea that comes to mind.
Take some time and put some creative thinking into practise.
Use your brain first.
Come up with a unique idea or angle that hasn't been shot before.
3.
Be original Don't shoot the same as everyone else is shooting.
Try new ideas.
How many people do you see lying on their backs in public? None? Then try shooting old ideas from new angles such as lying on your back and shooting up.
4.
Best work Only enter the best images from your portfolio.
If you think that it isn't up to scratch then it probably isn't.
If you're going to take the time then use your best to entry.
If you can improve on existing images then reshoot them and create a new image just for the competition.
5.
Follow the basic rules These aren't competition rules but rules of photography.
Make sure that your composition is perfect as well as your exposure and focus.
If you aren't creating within the rules you won't stand a chance against those who are.
6.
Shoot for the competition You may have some great images in your collection but read the rules and make sure that all requirements are met by your image.
If they don't then shoot specifically for the competition, making sure that each detail required is part of your final photo.
7.
Variety Enter as many different competitions as possible together with as many images that can possibly qualify.
With the internet the world is literally at your feet and the number of available competitions for you to enter increases.
It's a numbers game if your work is of a high standard and is only a matter of time before you win something.
8.
Striking images Make sure that your images have impact and stand out from others.
Use colour, texture, form and shape to ensure that they are dynamic and full of potential.
If you think they have they wow factor then they probably do.
9.
Passion wins If you are passionate about your genre of photography then enter the competitions that appeal to you.
You can only win if you love the photos you create.
You will spend the necessary time and effort on things that you enjoy.
10.
Don't give up Keep at it.
Strive to improve your images and keep practising.
Don't give up after your first competition.
Perseverance will pay off in the end if you strive to perfect your images and develop your bag of skills.
Entering competitions should be fun so enjoy it.
One word of warning though, read the small print and make sure that your award winning image remains yours.
Only give limited rights to your images and rather not enter if the competition owns the rights to your winning image.
Be wise.