Photo Competition

Photo Competition




1) Upload your photos (see competition rules below)

Upload your photos to the Photo Competition’ category from your PC or tablet (not possible from mobile phones). The upload form is only visible when you are logged in. If it is not visible go to section 3), 4) or 5) below to log in or register.


2) Entries for next competition

Monthly competitions start on the last Saturday of each month. Winning photos will be announced in our newsletters and featured on our website’s banner.









3) Easy Log in via Social Media

Log in using your Facebook, Twitter or Google credentials quickly and easily. After logging in via social media you must reload the page to upload your photos.


4) Log in

Registered members can log in here. When logged in you can edit your user profile, change your password and upload an avatar on this link.


5) Register

New members can register an account here.


    6) What makes a winning photograph?

    As one of the judges of the National Wildlife Photo Contest, I’m often asked what makes a winning photograph.  The contest started in 1971, and from its beginning, judges have looked at each image with five criteria in mind.  So whether you are deciding which images to enter or just looking at what others have entered to vote for the People’s Choice Award, you will find helpful tips in these five factors that the judges look for in evaluating entries:

    (a) Originality

     

    photo contest1

    We’ve seen many cedar waxwing images but this second place winning photo was very original. The photographer’s companion was looking in a field guide at differences between a cedar waxwing and a bohemian waxwing when the bird got curious, too. You never know when a photo opportunity may arise, so have your camera ready.

    (b) Technical Excellence

     

    photo contest2

    Remember when we were told we shouldn’t photograph toward the sun? But this first place winner of a mother and child dancing on the beach shows you can do this quite effectively if you select the right camera settings. That means the proper exposure, shutter speed, white balance and depth of field. And be aware of lens flare!

    (c) Composition

     

    photo contest3

    This entry has great balance, and the placement and strong color of the canoe emphasize the whiteness of the scene. It’s always best to make your composition when you shoot, but sometimes you might find a better composition by cropping afterward using a photo editor. Don’t be afraid to crop if it will help composition.

    (d) Artistic Merit

     

    photo contest4

    All the elements came together for this photographer? the large elk, the double rainbow, the sun highlighting the bands of rain. The photographer didn’t let weather stop her from shooting and she was rewarded with this beautiful wildlife landscape. Sunny blue skies have their place, but what we might consider bad weather can add a lot of drama to a photograph.

    (e) Overall Impact

    photo contest5

    This first-place winning image of an indigo bunting is sharp, well-lit, and the bird contrasts well against the palm leaf background. The wingspread also adds implied motion. Good photographs are made, not taken. Work at your subject, be aware of the background, and anticipate behavior. So do what the judges do and keep these factors in mind as you select what photos to enter or what photos to vote for. Strive to select winning images!

    This article was written by John Nuhn for National Wildlife Federation.


    7)  Competition Rules

    • Photo resolution: 1,200 pixels min, 4000 pixels max; photo size = 8.0 MB max.
    • Images should not be duplicated by uploading into more than one gallery.
    • Photo upload limits: photo competition – three photos per person;
    • All other galleries: five photos each 24 hour period.
    • Not yet a member? Go to the login page to register.
    • You have read and agree to the Terms of Service.
    • You confirm that the photo copyright belongs to you.
    • The photo title and descriptive fields must be completed.
    • Photos in frames or with colored borders are not allowed.
    • Photos of pets, captive or domestic animals are not allowed.
    • Contestants can vote for their own photos but ONLY ONCE!
    • Photos of paintings or drawings of wild animals are not allowed.
    • Photos not in accordance with conditions of use may be excluded.
    • Winning photos will also be featured on our blog’s rotating banner.
    • Use of social media to manipulate or influence voting is not allowed.
    • Composite photos created by superimposing two or more separate photos not allowed.

     

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