All images entered into LLPS competitions must be the original work of the entrant. The original image must be made by the entrant digitally. All images must be original and may not incorporate elements produced by anyone else; the use of stock photography is not allowed.
Competition Theme: "Open"
"Open" refers to a category that has no specific theme or subject restrictions. It's a broad category where photographers can submit images on any topic, using any photographic technique they choose.
Here's a breakdown of what "open" means for a camera club competition:
No Subject Constraints: Unlike categories like "landscape," "portrait," or "street photography," an open category allows you to submit a picture of anything you want—from a close-up of a flower to an abstract image, a family portrait, a cityscape, or a wildlife shot.
Freedom of Technique: You can use various photographic techniques, including long exposure, macro, high dynamic range (HDR), black and white, or color. The only limits are typically those set by the competition's general rules (e.g., file format, size).
Focus on Creativity and Technical Skill: Because there are no thematic constraints, the judging in an open category often emphasizes the photographer's technical proficiency, originality, creativity, and the overall impact of the image. Judges are looking for an image that tells a compelling story, has strong composition, and is technically well-executed.
Think of it as the category for "anything goes." It's a great opportunity for photographers to showcase their best work, regardless of the subject matter, and often attracts a wide variety of submissions.
Competition Theme: "The Letter 'R'"
Definition: An open-ended creative challenge where your photograph must prominently feature or be inspired by the letter "R".
You can interpret this theme in a few ways:
• Literal: Capturing the physical shape of the letter "R" as found in signage, graffiti, or naturally occurring patterns and structures (visual architecture).
• Conceptual: A subject, object, or emotion where the core theme starts with the letter "R" (e.g., Reflection, Rusty, Ruins, Rain, Red, Rivers, or Relationships).
Key Rule: The connection to the letter "R" should be obvious, striking, or clearly explained by the image's title.
Competition Theme: "People" (including Street & Sport)
Definition: A dynamic category focused on capturing the human element, capturing individuals or groups in public spaces, during athletic pursuits, or in everyday moments.
You can approach this category through several disciplines:
• Street Photography: Unposed, candid moments of people interacting with their environment in public spaces. It aims to capture authentic everyday life, culture, and human emotion.
• Sport Photography: High-energy, action-oriented shots capturing athletes, movement, emotion, and the drama of competitive or recreational sports.
• General Portraiture & Lifestyle: Posed or unposed images focusing on the character, expression, or story of the subject(s).
Key Rule: A person (or distinct part of a person, like hands or a silhouette) must be the primary focus or central storytelling element of the image.
Competition Theme: "Still Life / Product Photography"
Definition: The art of photographing inanimate subjects. This category relies heavily on the photographer's ability to deliberately arrange, light, and compose objects to create an impactful image.
This category bridges both artistic and commercial styles:
• Still Life: A creative arrangement of objects—such as flowers, food, vintage items, or tableware—often designed to evoke a specific mood, tell a story, or mimic classical art.
• Product Photography: A clean, crisp commercial style focused on showcasing a specific item (e.g., watches, shoes, tech gadgets, or cosmetics) in an appealing and highly detailed way.
Key Rule: The subject must be entirely inanimate (no living creatures or people). The success of the image depends heavily on your control over lighting, texture, and composition.