How I Improved My Understanding of Competition Through an Imaging USA Pre-Con Class
(And how to help Andee during the 12 elements of Competition)
By Christine Grosshans, M.Photog., CPP, FP
It’s time to start thinking about getting our images ready for the annual VPPA Image Competition. It took me a few years after I received my CPP, to begin my quest to compete. Part of it was because of my illness, a condition I’ve had for several years. It prevented me from picking up my camera. During that time, I focused on my photography education.
That education came in the form of a Pre-Con class at Imaging USA called Competition and the 12 Elements. I took it twice. The first round piqued my interest and got me thinking. The second round answered the questions I had from the first. MIR has ushered in some changes to this class going forward. It is now called MIR – Pursue Your Degree Through Image Evaluation. “Whether you are working on your Master of Photography, Wedding, or Artist degree, or are just considering starting the process, this class will shed some light on the process and procedures of the image portion of the degree program,” per the PPA description. It will focus on the 12 elements of a merit image as well as provide some technical tips and image evaluation rules.
I sent Carl Caylor, the instructor for this class, a text to ask if the class would be like the one previously offered. He assured me the class would continue to focus on the 12 elements. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to evaluate their own images, as well as the other participant’s entries. Some participants may even get to sit in the hot seat as a judge. So, the class gives you the knowledge, but is that enough?
Jumping into print competition takes some courage. You may be asking, why I didn’t start competing rightaway? Honestly, I was afraid to have my heart ripped out by a judge’s score and critique. Most photographers pourtheir heart and soul into their entries and can’t separate themselves from the effort. Secondly, I was not sure how to get started. I did not know about VPPA at the time. Another photographer told me about his affiliate in Maryland and suggested I investigate Virginia’s affiliate.
Two years later, with the help of Jamie Hayes as my mentor, I entered my first VPPA competition and the rest is history. I received my Master of Photography degree this year with the help of many in VPPA, and PPA. The Pre-Con class is a great way for everyone entering competition to learn the technical tips and rules, whether they are a beginner like me, or someone with years of experience. I was very impressed with the amount of bling that was worn in the two classes I took. There were many experts in the class learning more to ‘up their game’ because you can always learn more. I would recommend this class to anyone who may be thinking about going to Imaging USA, and looking for a Pre-Con class to take, especially anyone who might have questions about the new MIR program.