If you have to take a giant leap in expressing your photographic vision, first, you have to start by taking small steps that will include years and years of struggle. You have to be aware of where everything started, and who those goliaths are, on whose shoulders the recent photographers build everything. Competitions merely serve as a pat on the back.
Validation is essential to any artist. It serves as a reminder of why they do what they do. But you must be sure why you wish to take part in a particular contest. Is it organized by a respectable institution? Or, do you value the opinions of the members of the jury? Or you might also think that winning the competition will help you to grow your business. There may be various reasons to enter a photography contest, but before you do so, weigh out the advantages and then go ahead and participate.
- You get a challenge to work upon
Participating in these competitions engages you in a challenge in which you have to thrive. At times it may be pretty thrilling. Being assigned a definite subject and then venturing out to photograph it compels you to think of various possibilities of approaching it. It broadens your horizon, and your way of looking at things changes.
- Thinking out of the box helps
A photo contest receives different types of images. But why do you think your pictures should win the award? Until and unless your clicks have ‘something extra’ that no other image has, only then do you stand a chance to be ahead in the game. So, always try to think out of the box to incorporate that extra. It will enhance your photographic skills, and you will learn to see your subjects in a whole new way.
- Helps you to grow
Photography competitions are not always about competing against other individuals. Even the accolades do not matter at times. The greatest advantage of entering a contest will drive you to push yourself to reach creative boundaries that you thought were not accomplishable. The work of other photographers will inspire you to learn new things, and in the process, you will also grow.
- Feedback is important
Feedback is not always easy to digest. But when you have decided to enter a competition, you also have to be prepared to confront what the judges want to say about your images. Judges are usually the chosen few who have established themselves in the industry. So, their opinion will be valued at all times. It will guide you in your professional development.
Feedback from peers also helps as they will be able to point out which areas need improvement. There’s always something more to learn. All these things will aid you in evolving as a good photographer.
- You can build a global audience
Participating in a competition does not necessarily mean that you have to win it. Your photos get a chance of being exhibited. Different people have different tastes. It may happen that your pictures may be liked by some people. And thus, you get introduced to a global audience.
Conclusion
So, do not hesitate to come out of your comfort zone and take part in different photo contests. After all, you have nothing to lose.