12 Photography Tips for Capturing That Winning Shot

One of the most rewarding moments for a photographer is winning, or even being nominated in, a prestigious competition. But how do you grab the attention of the judges?

Firstly, to get started, you need to enter a competition. Participating in a photography competition is not only a great way to showcase your skills, but also an opportunity to improve your perspective.

Once you’ve decided to enter a competition, it’s important to understand the theme, rules, requirements, and most importantly, the media format. Your photos need to align with the theme, so do some research to figure out what makes certain photos stand out and why others fall short.

All of this might seem pretty easy to understand, and most people don’t take it very seriously. But let me tell you, it’s actually one of the things that can lead to failure.

You see, photography is a truly rewarding hobby, especially with all the digital cameras available these days. It’s something that anyone can enjoy and excel at. But here’s the thing – if you want to truly succeed and stand out, there are a few key elements you need to keep in mind.

I’ve rounded up over 30 free ebooks for photographers that will give you valuable insights and tips to take your photography to the next level. These ebooks cover a wide range of topics, from composition and lighting to post-processing and creative techniques. They’re a treasure trove of knowledge that can help you improve your skills and create stunning photos.

Now, let’s talk about the 12 elements that define a winning photographic print. If you want to increase your chances of winning any photographic competition, these are the factors you should pay attention to:

1. Impact: Your photo needs to make a strong impact on the viewer right from the first glance. It should evoke intense emotions and leave a lasting impression. Great photos have a certain quality that sticks with you, making you want to keep looking at them.

2. Composition: The way you arrange the elements in your photo can make a huge difference. Think about the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry. These compositional techniques can help you create visually pleasing and balanced images.

3. Lighting: Good lighting is essential for creating impactful photos. Pay attention to the quality, direction, and intensity of light. Experiment with different lighting setups and techniques to create the desired mood and atmosphere in your photos.

4. Color: Colors can evoke different emotions and set the tone of your photos. Play around with color schemes and use color creatively to enhance the visual impact of your images.

5. Storytelling: A great photo tells a story or captures a moment in time. Think about the narrative or message you want to convey through your photos. Look for interesting subjects, moments, and details that can tell a compelling story.

6. Creativity: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try new things. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, and techniques to create unique and eye-catching photos that stand out from the crowd.

7. Technical Excellence: While creativity is important, technical skills also play a crucial role. Make sure your photos are sharp, well-exposed, and properly edited. Pay attention to details and strive for technical perfection in your work.

8. Emotional Connection: A winning photo should evoke emotions and create a connection with the viewer. Think about ways to make your photos relatable, personal, or thought-provoking.

9. Originality: In today’s digital age, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of similar-looking photos. Strive to create something unique and original that reflects your own style and vision.

10. Attention to Detail: Small details can make a big difference in a photo. Pay attention to every element within the frame and make sure everything is intentional and contributes to the overall composition.

11. Timing: Photography is all about capturing the right moment. Be patient and observant, and learn to anticipate moments that have the potential to create powerful and meaningful photos.

12. Practice and Persistence: Like any skill, photography requires practice and persistence. Keep shooting, keep learning, and keep pushing yourself to improve. Don’t get discouraged by failures or setbacks; use them as learning opportunities to grow as a photographer.

So, there you have it – the key elements that can define a winning photographic print. Remember, photography is more than just pointing and shooting; it’s about capturing moments, telling stories, and creating art. With the right mindset, knowledge, and practice, you can take your photography to new heights. Keep exploring, keep experimenting, and keep capturing the beauty of the world through your lens.

Credit: Buddhist Monk, Thailand by Stephen Shaver

2. Creating a Captivating Image

When composing an image, it is essential to convey your intended message through visual elements. You have the power to be innovative, avoiding overused ideas. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to communicate and how you can effectively capture it in your composition.

Effective composition can evoke feelings of pleasure or unease, depending on what you are aiming for. You want the viewer’s gaze to be naturally drawn to the main subject of your image. To achieve this, consider creating visual focal points that isolate and highlight your subject, guiding the viewer’s attention.

Credit: Rooftop Golf, New York Photo by Landon Nordeman

3. Lighting

When it comes to creating a detailed and dimensional image, getting the perfect exposure is crucial. Lighting plays a pivotal role in making your photos stand out. It has the power to enhance your photos when used correctly.

Understanding the different qualities of light can help you compose your shots in the best possible way. High-temperature light sources tend to have a bluish hue, while low-temperature sources have a reddish tint.

Too much light can result in a washed-out picture, while too little light can make your photo too dark and create excessive shadows. When the lighting produces more contrast, your photo will showcase more intricate details, shapes, and textures.

Credit: Tokay Gecko by Erin Yard

4. Technique

Want to know how I created this amazing image? Well, let me give you a peek into my artistic process. When capturing this picture, I made sure to let my artistic eye guide me. I wanted to capture something extraordinary and out of the ordinary, and I think I succeeded.

Timing was crucial. I had to be aware of the perfect moment to click the shutter. It was all about capturing that split second when everything aligned just right. But that wasn’t the only thing I had to pay attention to.

I also had to consider the colors. I made sure to take advantage of the vibrant hues, letting them shine and bring life to the image. And let’s not forget about the lighting. It played a vital role in creating the final result. I had to find the right quality of light that would enhance the subject and make it stand out.

Lastly, I couldn’t neglect the graphic elements. I used them to give the picture an artistic touch, creating a composition that is visually striking and captivating.

So, there you have it! Now you know a little bit about the technique I used to create this amazing image. It was all about capturing the extraordinary, focusing on the unique colors, quality of light, and the graphic elements that make this picture truly special.

Credit: Staccato by King Douglas

5. Printing Pictures

When it comes to printing pictures, the first step is to have a good negative or digital file. Before printing, it’s important to properly expose the image. Glossy photo prints have a shiny and vibrant appearance, but they can be difficult to view in bright light. On the other hand, matte finish is ideal for black and white images, although it can give the photo a grainy texture.

Credit: Death Valley National Park by Michael Melford

6. Unleash Your Creativity

Have you unleashed your imagination to capture something unique and breathtaking in your photo? Your image should showcase an original concept, message, or idea that goes beyond mere imitation of another photographer’s style.

Credit: Picador by Joseba Ibarra

7. What catches your eye?

When you look at a picture, your gaze should be naturally guided towards one specific point – the star of the show. Imagine invisible lines leading you directly to that focal point, without bouncing your eyes all over the place.

Credit: Cavern Explorer, Tennessee by Stephen Alvarez

Exploring the Power of Colors

When it comes to creating an impactful visual experience, the balance and interplay of tones and colors are crucial. Using them harmoniously or in contrasting combinations can evoke a wide range of emotions in both the viewer and the designer. Achieving a realistic color scheme that doesn’t clash is key, allowing for a visually pleasing and harmonious composition.

But what happens when colors are skillfully mixed, combining and mingling? This is where the true magic begins – creating a captivating and captivating atmosphere that can leave a lasting impression.

Credit: Montgolfieres by Armel Couette

9. Photography Style

When it comes to photography, different fields require a unique style and perspective. The way we capture images can vary depending on the subject, the situation, and the theme of the contest.

Credit: Whirling Dervish by Nour Elrefai

10. A Unique Subject

When you’re searching for a subject to capture in your photo, aim for something truly extraordinary and distinctive. Look for something that stands out from the usual, run-of-the-mill subjects that everyone else is choosing.

Credit: Feast of the Sacrifice by James Nachtwey

11. Outstanding Technical Skill

When it comes to evaluating the quality of a physical print, there are several crucial factors that come into play. Factors such as the printing technique, sharpness, exposure, retouching, color accuracy, and the final mounting all contribute to the overall technical excellence of the print.

Credit: Boom Boom Christophe Kiciak

12. Let’s Talk About Stories

Like Ansel Adams said, “There’s nothing worse than a clear picture of a fuzzy idea.” A picture can show feelings, atmosphere, a story, thoughts, and messages. These are the things that make a point and tell a story.

Credit: Circumcision Ritual, South Africa James Nachtwey

I stood still as tears filled my eyes, witnessing a powerful ceremony that held generations of tradition and meaning. It was an honor to be part of this ancient ritual, steeped in history and culture, yet still alive and vibrant today.

The air was charged with anticipation as I watched young boys prepare to embark on a journey of growth and transformation. They were about to undergo the ancient practice of circumcision, a rite of passage that would mark their transition into manhood.

As the boys gathered around the elders, I could see a mixture of nervousness and excitement on their faces. This was a moment that would shape their lives forever, instilling in them a sense of identity and belonging.

The ceremony began with the elders offering words of wisdom and guidance. They spoke of the importance of community, of the values and principles that would guide these boys throughout their lives. As I listened to their words, I couldn’t help but be struck by the universality of their message. It was a reminder that despite our differences, we all share a common journey of growth and self-discovery.

Slowly, the boys were led to the sacred space where the circumcision would take place. There, surrounded by loved ones and supported by the community, they would undergo a physical and symbolic transformation. It was a moment of vulnerability and strength, a moment of pain and resilience.

As I watched the procedure, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of respect for these young boys. They were willingly embracing a tradition that had been passed down through countless generations. It was a demonstration of their commitment to their heritage and their willingness to face adversity head-on.

The ceremony ended with a celebration, a recognition of the boys’ bravery and their entrance into manhood. It was a joyous moment, filled with dancing, singing, and laughter. In that moment, I felt privileged to have witnessed something so sacred and profound.

I left the ceremony with a newfound appreciation for the power of tradition and the strength of community. It was a reminder that our roots and our values are what ground us, even in the face of uncertainty and change. As I reflect on that day, I carry with me the lessons I learned and the memories I made. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of something so sacred and significant.