Expensive cameras are not usually necessary when you are planning to enter a competition, the most important part is to choose a good subject and take the time to get the picture right. For a lot of people, having a camera that’s not too expensive can actually help, as it can allow them to focus all of their energy on the subject of their pictures rather than the fancy technology, this is can be particularly helpful for a beginner.
Before you enter the event, always make sure that you have received all of the rules pertaining to the competition and that you are actually a qualifying competitor. You always want to be aware of any strict rules the sponsor may layout such as the size of the picture or topic of your picture.
While not always the case with every competition, there may be entry fees associated with being part of the event. The amount of money required may range from low cost to quite a bit of money. Often, the sponsors who ask competitors to pay a higher fee will have larger prizes to offer their winners.
Once you are sure you qualify, start by choosing a topic or person to work with. After you have decided on the topic that you will photograph then consider your environment. The amount of light in a room or weather conditions will play a big role in the outcome of your pictures. Not having enough light will make it difficult to get a good picture.
If you choose to make the topic of your picture a person, allow them to act naturally and encourage them to be themselves as much as possible while you take the pictures. Letting your subject be his or her self during a photo shoot can allow the picture to turn out much more naturally and unique.
For most people, the biggest challenge comes at the end when it is time to choose the picture to be entered into the competition, especially if there are some that are very much alike. If possible, ask a friend or family member to help you choose. When choosing, always go with the one that catches your attention first.
If in the end, it turns out you are not the winner of a Portland photo contest, do not let that stop you from trying again. If another opportunity presents itself, definitely consider doing it again. Often, events such as these depend solely on the opinion of judges. Just because you did not get chosen the first time does not mean that you would not have the prize winner the next time. Above all, have fun while participating in the competition.
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