It’s a chance for photographers to showcase their skills, creativity, and unique vision to a wider audience and potentially gain validation and credibility as professionals. Plus, it can be a great motivator for pushing artistic boundaries and honing their craft.
What, if anything, did you learn about yourself through the process of image competition judging?
What I love most about image competitions is how they consistently inspire growth, regardless of the scores received. I’ve discovered that I possess the resilience to evolve, even when faced with disappointing feedback. Whether it’s through constructive criticism or a victory, there’s always room to learn and enhance my skills for the next opportunity.
What attracted you to APNPI’s International Image Competition?
The quality and professionalism of the judging panel is always a significant draw for me, as it is comprised of experienced and respected photographers who offer credible and insightful critiques. This level of expertise not only lends credibility to the competition but also ensures that the feedback provided is valuable and constructive, helping participants to improve their craft.
Additionally, the specific focus on newborn photography within the APNPI competition is appealing to photographers specializing in this niche, as it provides a platform tailored to their specific skills and interests. The professionalism of the organization, including how the competition is structured and managed, also plays a crucial role. For many photographers, the opportunity to have their work recognized and critiqued at such a level is a significant motivator and a chance to gain visibility in a competitive field.
Have there been any positive outcomes from your achievement?
Achieving recognition in an image competition like the APNPI International has certainly brought about several positive outcomes. Firstly, the press attention that followed the win has been instrumental in enhancing my visibility and reputation in the photography community and beyond. This publicity not only highlights my skills and creativity but also serves as an endorsement of my work, attracting new clients and opportunities.
Additionally, the excitement among parents whose children’s images have won is immensely rewarding. This not only validates their decision to choose my services but also often leads them to share their experience with friends and family. This word-of-mouth promotion is invaluable, as personal recommendations carry a lot of weight in decision-making for potential clients.
Finally, the increase in bookings for storytelling images is another significant benefit. Clients are increasingly seeking out photographers who can capture more than just a moment—those who can tell a story through their images. The recognition from the competition has underscored my ability to create such engaging and emotive pictures, leading to more clients interested in this particular style. This, in turn, allows me to further refine my technique and continue to push creative boundaries, maintaining the cycle of growth and improvement sparked by the initial competition success.
What were you looking for when selecting images to submit to the image competition?
When selecting images to submit to the image competition, my primary focus is on finding photographs that possess a compelling impact and the ability to tell a vivid story. Impact is crucial because it’s what grabs the viewer’s attention immediately, drawing them into the image and evoking an emotional response. Whether it’s through striking composition, powerful lighting, or vibrant colors, I aim to create images that leave a lasting impression on the viewer.
Equally important is the storytelling aspect of the photograph. I look for images that go beyond mere visual aesthetics and have the depth to convey a narrative or evoke an emotion. Whether it’s capturing a fleeting moment of joy, portraying a tender connection between subjects, or eliciting a sense of wonder and curiosity, storytelling adds layers of meaning to the image, making it more engaging and memorable.
In essence, I seek out images that not only showcase technical skill and artistic vision but also have the ability to resonate with viewers on a deeper level. Whether it’s a single powerful moment frozen in time or a nuanced narrative unfolding within the frame, I believe that the best images are those that leave a lasting impression and invite the viewer to connect with the story being told.
What would you say to a member thinking about submitting imagery?
I would definitely encourage any member contemplating submitting their imagery to go ahead and take that step. It is absolutely worth stepping outside your comfort zone and putting your work out there. Submitting to competitions provides a unique opportunity that pushes you both creatively and technically. It’s a proactive way to challenge yourself and discover new aspects of your craft, prompting you to refine your skills and perhaps explore styles or subjects you might not have considered before.
Moreover, participating in image competitions offers invaluable learning experiences. The feedback you receive, whether your work wins an award or not, is crucial for your growth as a photographer. It helps you see your work through fresh eyes and often provides perspectives you might not have considered. This kind of critique is essential for any creative looking to elevate their craft.
Yes, there may be successes and disappointments along the way. Not every submission will win a prize, and not all feedback will be what you hoped for. However, each piece of input is a stepping stone towards improvement. Celebrate the successes when they come; let them affirm your skills and fuel your passion. Learn from the disappointments, too—they are not just setbacks, but opportunities to understand more about your art and how it can be developed.
Ultimately, the process of submitting your images to competitions is always worth it because it is inherently tied to personal and professional development. Each submission is a step forward in your journey as a photographer, helping you to become more versatile and resilient in your work. So, go for it—embrace the challenge, and enjoy the journey of becoming a better photographer with each competition.
Marcela Limon is a Certified Maternity and Newborn photographer servicing the San Francisco Bay Area from her beautiful studio in Alameda. She’s been specializing in motherhood images since 2015 and has won prestigious awards at international print competitions in the last few years, including APNPI, WPPI and PPA, where she recently earned her Master of Photography degree. She’s committed to newborn safety and that’s why she is Infant CPR trained and has had in person mentoring with renowned photographers from around the world. She’s always looking for education opportunities to make the industry better for both her colleagues and her clients.
APNPI Competition 1st Place Winner – Child Category | “Teddy Bear Stroll” by Alicia Barrett
