Photographic Competition: What Is It and Why Should You Enter?
You've probably heard photographers talking about competition, merits, seals, districts, and awards—but if you've never entered before, it can feel a little overwhelming.
So what exactly is photographic competition, and why do so many photographers participate?
At its core, photographic competition isn't really about competing against other photographers. It's about challenging yourself to grow, improve your craft, and see your work through a different lens.
Through the Georgia Professional Photographers Association (GPPA), photographic competition provides an opportunity to receive feedback from trained judges, stretch your creativity, and develop skills that ultimately make you a stronger photographer.
What Is a Merit?
One of the terms you'll hear often is "merit."
A merit is essentially a way to recognize achievement and participation within GPPA. There are several ways to earn merits, and one of those is through photographic competition.
When an image receives a score of 80 or higher, it earns a competition merit. Scores are based on the judges' interpretation of the image and how effectively it demonstrates the Twelve Elements of a Merit Image. Don't worry if you're unfamiliar with those elements—we'll be covering them in future blog posts.
Why Enter Photographic Competition?
Personal Growth
Many photographers will tell you that competition has helped them improve more than almost anything else in their career.
Preparing images for competition encourages you to look at your work differently. You'll learn to evaluate images more critically, strengthen your technical skills, and gain insight from judges who have received extensive training in image evaluation.
Recognition and Achievement
Have you ever noticed photographers at conventions wearing ribbons, medallions, or pins?
Those awards represent years of growth, education, service, and achievement within the profession. Through GPPA, photographers can work toward honors such as the Fellowship Degree, which recognizes accomplishments in both photographic competition and continuing education.
Portfolio Development
Competition can also push you creatively.
You may spend most of your time photographing portraits, families, seniors, or weddings, but competition gives you the freedom to explore something completely different. Maybe you'll try wildlife photography, macro work, commercial imagery, landscapes, or even abstract art.
Some photographers discover entirely new passions through competition, and many create some of their strongest portfolio pieces in the process.
Ready to Give It a Try?
Yes! I'm ready-Tell me more!
If you've been curious about photographic competition, this is a great time to jump in.
GPPA's competition is now open for entries, and judging will take place on July 31. Whether you're entering for the first time or returning with new work, we encourage you to participate, learn, and challenge yourself to grow.
Watch for upcoming blog posts where we'll dive deeper into the Twelve Elements of a Merit Image, tips for preparing your entries, and everything you need to know to get started.
Your greatest competition isn't the photographer standing next to you—it's the photographer you were yesterday.