Local Photo Contest Questions - DPChallenge Forums

Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Canon Mount

03/18/2011 12:05:54 PM · #1

I see where some of you enter local competitions (newspaper contests, state fair competitions, & stuff for local publications). I guess I'm just trying to feel out the odds, but . . do a lot of professional photographers enter these contests, or is it more for amateurs? The contests that I'm looking at are small with no cash or large prizes involved (basically just a 'Yay, we printed your picture in this tiny publication that no one reads!'). It states that it's open to both pros & rookies and I plan to enter either way, just to get the experience. Can some of you share your experience in these types of things? Thanks!

Mike

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

03/18/2011 01:06:06 PM · #2

Originally posted by retake:

it depends on the prominence and the prize money, a local paper/publication isn't going to generate a huge draw for professional photogs simply becuase of their inability to market to the pros, but a state fair might. i wouldn't sweat it, just becuase they are pros doesn't mean they can take a better picture than you. enter away.

hint, if its online voting, post the link here and so we can heavily vote in your favor :).

Canon 12x IS USM (S3 IS built-in Lens) -- 36-432mm (35mm EQ)

03/18/2011 01:15:19 PM · #3

Sadly, the judging is all done by board members of the publication. I kinda figured there would be less pros entering, just because, if they're pros, they don't have time to devote to small-time stuff like this. Thanks for the heads up. :)

MinsoPhoto

Canon EOS-7D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM

03/18/2011 02:13:02 PM · #4

It never hurts to get your name out there (as long as it is consistent with how you want to be viewed) as much as possible. I have sent in a few things to local publications so far. Nothing in print but have had a few on the news website.

GeneralE

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

03/18/2011 02:20:14 PM · #5

If there's no entry fee, why not enter?

ETA: Unless their terms are outrageous, like they take complete ownership.

Message edited by author 2011-03-18 14:21:35.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

03/18/2011 02:28:48 PM · #6

No entry fee, and I retain all rights & ownership. I do grant them license to reproduce, etc. in conjunction with the contest. The photograph will be cited as mine in publication.

I was planning to enter, just to get more practice with my camera. I really appreciate all the advice!!

Neil

Fujifilm X-T30

03/18/2011 04:21:27 PM · #7

I entered into a local contest for the paper once...I did win, not the grand prize though. I think I got $50 or so from a local camera store, and a print in the paper. The funny thing is I entered two shots, and I was pretty sure which one when I was notified I had won. Of course, it was the other one! :)

bassbone

Nikon Z8

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120 f/4 S

03/18/2011 04:28:38 PM · #8

I have entered and won several local and regional contests both in newspapers and in regional magazines. Sometimes the prize is a picture in the paper and sometimes it is monetary, but it is always fun to see your images published. The thing I have found useful in order to do well and get published is to study the work that is currently in the periodical and determine what style fits in best - and submit images that fit that criteria.

Things to consider include how much or little editing to complete (some papers/ magazines don't like it 'over the top' with oversaturated skies etc), figure out the best crops for the media (landscape may work well inside but portrait is best for a cover, etc), and what are the subjects that get published. These are the images that will likely do well.

Good luck.