Topic of the photograph
Does the photograph fit the topic assignment for the contest? Some may seem to fit better than others. The title of the picture may give you a hint about the photographers thought process when selecting the picture for the contest.

Technical aspects
Is the picture in focus? Is it properly exposed? Are the colors clear? Sometimes a dark picture or one out of focus may suggest a mood. Has the photographer used special techniques to create a mood or feeling about the picture?

Composition
Are the compositional elements arranged in an eye-pleasing manner? Does the composition follow the "rule of thirds?" (This is not a requirement but may be helpful in evaluating pictures.) Is there a center of interest? Does the composition draw your eye to a particular element?

Impact
Does the picture produce a visual impact? Do you feel comfortable with the picture? Can you immediately recognize the center of interest, or does your eye wander? Is it a photograph you would like to have taken or is it one you would have discarded? Does it tell a story? Most "GOOD" pictures do not require explanation.

We use three judges, voting on a scale of 1 to 4 points per judge, with 1 to 2 being considered "Acceptance". Pictures which the judges find better than average may obtain a point count as high as (12). Don't be afraid to be a judge. It will help you pick your own photos with more thought about what is involved in competition photography versus "snapshot" photography.

Judges award 1 to 4 points for each photo.
Scoring is divided into 3 categories:(no attempts are made to break ties)
Top Honors - 11 - 12 total points awarded
Honors 8 - 10 total points awarded
Acceptance 3 - 7 total points awarded

Judges will be selected from among those who sign up to judge as they enter the meeting
Name of the photographer will be given when total points are announced.
Everyone, regardless of point total, may request a constructive critique.

NOTE: If you are a judge and your picture is being judged you would score it an 'X'. The score for your picture would then be 1.5 times the sum of the scores of the other two judges with rounding upwards for fractional values.

PLEASE NOTE: There is nothing wrong with "Snapshots" of family, friends, or vacations. There is a BIG difference however, in how they are perceived by anyone other than the photographer.