Competition Plea

Al Buntin calls upon the less competitive club members to consider taking part in competitions.

For a number of years now the same members have been contributing images to DPS when it comes to the National Competitions. There has only been a handful of new members joining in.

I realise that competitions are not on everyone’s agenda, and there are no rules to say that you must enter club or national competitions. I would, however, ask more members to consider putting forward what you think are your best images into competitions.

Why not start with the DPS? There are 4 general and 2 novice competitions held over the session and you enter anonymously. All you divulge is your DPS number. This will give you a chance to get some feedback on your photography and to compare your images with those of other DPS members.

If you feel more confident, why not enter one of the national Salons/Exhibitions? Again you enter anonymously and if you only enter a digital section this can often be done online: if not a CD of your entry will be required. If you have any images accepted, this will give you a huge boost in confidence.

Of course there is an alternative motive with that previously mentioned, and that is to get good images that DPS can use.

The two clubs in Scotland (Dumfries and Carluke) who have the highest success rate can count on the majority of their members contributing successful images for use at their own clubs. DPS has over 100 members but when it comes to getting images for SPF competitions we have an average of only 20 who contribute on a regular basis. This number should be much higher.

I would ask you to consider what you have just read, and if you feel inclined, why not look out your best images for the next competition?