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What PAGB adjudicators are looking for in a Photograph
Content.
We are looking for the interesting, original, creative content to convey an idea, an emotion, a message or a purpose. The subject can be quite mundane, provided that the photographer has demonstrated an interesting approach, showing us something that we may otherwise have missed.
Composition.
This is central to the attraction of an image and should bring all the visual elements together harmoniously, so as to express the purpose of the image. Effective composition immediately attracts the Adjudicators to the image and should prompt them to look where the photographer intended. Good composition will normally lead the viewer to the main point of interest. There can be primary and secondary centres of interest, and occasionally there will be no specific point to look at if the entire scene collectively serves as one focus of interest.
Impact.
Our Adjudicators are not pressed to assess too quickly but the immediate impression is still important. Images with impact can instantly evoke laughter, sadness, anger, pride, admiration or wonder.
Lighting.
The use and control of light is the essence of photography and critical in APM entries., Our Adjudicators will look for the effective use of light, natural or manmade, to add excitement to a photograph, enhancing its story telling and impact
Story Telling.
We are not looking for a “big” story, simply how the image communicates with the viewer to help them understand why it was taken.
Colour Balance.
Our Adjudicators will consider the use of colours and tones in an image. An image in which the tones work together, effectively supporting the image, can enhance harmony. Of course, a lack of harmony can be used for effect, to evoke negative feelings.
Technique.
This is the approach used to create the image. Does it show effective input and choice by the photographer, in view point, lens chosen, focus and other camera settings? In other competitions where the image has done well, did the prize go to the photographer or to the subject? What did the photographer bring to the image beyond pressing the shutter release? Effective use of focus, tone and contrast can greatly enhance an image, giving it depth, with a more 3 dimensional quality.
Delivery.
All of the above are the most decisive factors, but the APM also require a degree of skill in processing and printing -