How to Select Images for Photography Competitions
When photography competitions are announced, there’s always a wave of excitement when you consider the possibilities. A quick glance at the categories leads to hours spent scouring through your hard drives, folders, hunting for those perfect images to enter.
With the inaugural Travel Photography Awards by The Wandering Lens opening for entries in just a few weeks, I wanted to share some tips for selecting images when entering photo contests.
Over the years, I have judged numerous international photography contests, and sitting on the other side of the table offers a clear view of what makes an image stand.
Here are my key tips to help you curate your submissions.
1. Aim for Immediate Impact
Judges usually view hundreds of photographs in quick succession. Ask yourself: If someone has never seen my work before, what will they feel in the first second? A powerful image should stop them and spark curiosity to look closer.
Aligning your image with the correct category will ensure it stands out too. Because we all view our work quite differently to how a stranger will see it, it’s quite obvious to see who has read the category notes, and who hasn’t. So when judging, those images that immediately stand out are usually those that fit the category beautifully, or have a striking or intriguing characteristic that warrants shortlisting or a closer look.
2. Let the Image Tell the Story
Most competitions are judged anonymously. We have no idea who took the photo, where it was shot, or how it was created. Your image must communicate on its own, without a caption or backstory. Choose frames that hold narrative and emotion without explanation. The visual impact is essential when selecting which images to enter.
*Remember, the judges weren’t with you when you took the photo, so they’re approaching assessment by looking at how the image relates to the category/theme, the skill used to capture it, the moment/subjects and how they’re composed, in addition to the overall mood, message or feeling.
3. Show Your Craft, Not Just the Scene
Natural wonders or atmospheric city scenes are already bringing the beauty and interest, as the photographer, you need to bring the creative vision and direction. Consider how you have worked with the light, composition, angle and timing. Unless the category description calls for it, a traditional photography competition is not usually about heavy edits or dramatic effects; it is about using the elements within the scene to create something distinctly yours.
If you’ve got the time to photograph before entering, aim to capture an image that very closely relates to the category description. If you’re curating images you’ve taken previously, look for those that showcase your skills, and fit with the category you’re entering.
4. Build a Cohesive Set for Portfolios
For series or portfolio categories, every image needs to connect through colour, subject, technique or mood. Lay your selections side by side and look for visual harmony. Ask a trusted friend or fellow photographer if the sequence flows or if a different combination tells a stronger story.
Over my years of judging, I’ve seen countless portfolio submissions that have 3-4 incredibly stunning images that connect, then their fifth image lets the entire portfolio down. If possible, enter less, rather than more, the quality of your submission will achieve far better results than the quantity.
5. Prepare with Care
Read the brief and technical rules carefully, including file type, file name, file size, colour profile and any editing restrictions. It’s worth noting that editing with restraint using clean, consistent processing typically wins over heavy art filters, that is, unless you’re entering a category that calls for this.
When a competition allows captions or entry names, they can subtly influence how judges experience your work. Keep captions concise and informative rather than explanatory. A single sentence that adds context or evokes mood can help a judge pause and look again.
Choose entry names that complement the image without telling the whole story. A well-chosen title can spark curiosity or highlight a key element of the scene. Avoid clichés or overly descriptive phrases. Instead, think of words that reinforce the atmosphere or emotion of the photograph.
Winning is exciting but each competition is also an opportunity to grow. If your image is not selected, study the winning entries with an open mind. Consider how they met the category description or interpreted the theme. Notice their use of light, timing, composition and subject choice. Reflect on how you might refine your own approach for next time. Every submission builds skill and insight, regardless of the result.
Your invite to join our creative community of travellers! If you’re not already a member, come and join The Travel Photography Club where we’re having discussions about topics just like this! The club is an exclusive online space filled with creative resources, challenges, and travel advice for photographers.
