Print
Competition, why even have one?? Let me start off by saying
there are really two parts to having a print competition.
The first part is you deciding you really want to improve
your image making by having the print critiqued and judged
by other professionals in this field. It’s to see how
your work measures up to the standards of quality work.
Is it just average images or can you WOW the judges with
images that make you stand out among your peers. I’ve
said this before and will say it again, you're not competing
against others here; you’re competing
against yourself to become better at your craft. Any awards
that may come along the way is just icing on the cake.
Why
is it some do well at this every year? They continue to
work to improve their overall skills, they aren’t
afraid to try something new; whether it be creating a new
look, style or being at a location early or late to capture
the perfect moment on digital or film. Then are willing to
present their image in front of panel to be judged and critiqued.
My hat is off to everyone who has entered print competition
and continues to do so every year.
Entering your prints at a
state level is absolutely the best way to springboard one
to next level of either Regional or National print competition.
One can determine if it should go to the next level, or if
the image maker should select a different image for Regional
or National. In effect, you’re
getting multiple chances to earn a merit at the PPA National/International
Print Competition.
Now for the second part of
having a Print Competition, one learns not only from listening
to the judges, but by participating and helping during
this event, your knowledge base will increase faster than
others who don’t get involved and help.
By helping on the print crew, you get a head start over everyone
else who wants to learn how to create better images. Get
involved with PPC, whether it’s to help just for an
hour each day at the convention, be part of the print crew
or creating change by being part of the PPC board. It is
your organization, be a part of it.
Thomas J. Henn, M.Photog CR., CPP
PPC Chairman of the Board
PPC Print Chairman |
