Judging criteria for April 2026
Below is a list of judging criteria created and used by our April 2026 judge Michelle Mondragon. We appreciate Michelle for sharing her criteria and for judging our competition.
Key criteria for judging abstract photos
- Originality and Creativity: The image has a unique personal vision rather than clichéd subjects or imitations of famous photographers. The image should feel fresh and not seen before.
- Composition and Form: Even without a clear subject, the image must hold together visually. Balance, structure, lines, and shapes will all be analyzed. Intentional, strong compositions will stand out.
- Light and Color: How did the photographer use light to create mood and enhance the abstract elements. Color palettes should feel intentional and cohesive.
- Technical Execution: While abstract, the image must be technically sound. Intentional focus (or blur), proper exposure, and clean processing are needed. Unintended “noise” or poor editing is distracting. Creative blur or manipulation is acceptable if it enhances the vision.
- Emotional Impact/Connotation: The image should evoke a feeling, emotion, or story, moving beyond simple documentation. Ask if the image makes you feel calm, energized, uneasy, or curious.
- Intentionality: The photo should look like a conscious artistic choice, not a happy accident.
Key criteria for judging illusion photos
- Creativity and Originality: Does the image present a fresh, unique concept, or is it a common trope (e.g., holding up the Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods)?
- The “Wow” Factor/Impact: Does the image instantly grab attention and force the viewer to look twice to understand how it was done?
- Technical Execution: Is the image sharp (the key part of the illusion must be in sharp focus), properly exposed, and well-lit to support the illusion? Poor focus or awkward, distracting lighting can ruin the effect.
- Composition: Is the subject well-placed, using techniques like forced perspective, unconventional angles, or leading lines to enhance the illusion?
- Seamlessness: The best illusion photos don’t look heavily edited. Avoid images where the manipulation is obvious, such as poorly blended composites.
- Lighting Consistency: Do all elements in the scene share the same light source and direction? Inconsistent lighting breaks the illusion.
Key criteria for judging open category photos
- Impact & Emotion: Does the image instantly grab attention? Does it evoke a feeling, mood, or tell a story?
- Composition: Creative arrangement of elements. Effective use of the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and a clear center of interest.
- Technical Excellence: Is the image tack-sharp, properly exposed, and accurately focused with the desired depth of field?
- Creativity & Originality: Does the photo offer a unique perspective, unexpected angle, or an imaginative interpretation of a subject?
