I've been siting here wondering if there's a good way to get myself out there as a photographer. I really want to try and enter contests to see if I can get my work displayed in shows, but how do you know which ones are credible and which ones aren't? Does anyone on here ever enter their stuff into contests? If so, how do you decide which ones to enter? Just looking for some expert advice maybe...
Such a great question. I'll be interested in seeing what feedback you receive. I've entered a few in the past, but as you say, some were credible, others not so much. I want to get myself out there too and try to start selling some of my prints. Just not quite sure the best way to tackle it all.
Find your local photo club. most county fairs always have art shows, ask round the art galleries. community centers. and look in your news papers. they always have listings.. its hard to know if any comp is legit, so do your homework. go to a local established photographer and ask them to mentor you . or if they know someone who would mentor. this is s great way to get your face out there.... and they would have contacts etc,
With comps make sure you read all the fine print.... sometimes they will retain the rights of the photo.. and you dont want that..
I would start small and local,, little fish in a big pond will only result in Big disappointments.. we dont want to have the American Idol syndrome. (I can take photos because my family says Im good)
but at the same time, we want to push ourselves and go beyond .
So find the balance...
Good luck and let us know if you place somewhere..
well you can start with flickr
haha its not much but its cool to have people tell you they like thier photos
You can join groups on flickr
and some groups have monthly contests http://www.flickr.com/photos/55778206@N05/
if you choose to do this then you can message me on flickr and i can tell you some of the groups that i know that do contest
@eliserose781 don't get stung like I did - read the T&C and make sure you're comfortable with it ... being skeptical and having worked in competitions - I know the comps are run to get more stock for the 'xyz' or for creative ideas for their paid and preferred photographers. I also know from experience you need to network your butt off (but working in the media you know that already) do lots of projects for love and recognition and then hopefully land the one that will give you cred.
Sorry not trying to put you off - just giving the reality story being aware that very few photographers actually have that as their only day job, especially in the creative field.
Sorry - will stop now ... but suggest you get in with local portrait photographers and work the market.
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With comps make sure you read all the fine print.... sometimes they will retain the rights of the photo.. and you dont want that..
I would start small and local,, little fish in a big pond will only result in Big disappointments.. we dont want to have the American Idol syndrome. (I can take photos because my family says Im good)
but at the same time, we want to push ourselves and go beyond .
So find the balance...
Good luck and let us know if you place somewhere..
haha its not much but its cool to have people tell you they like thier photos
You can join groups on flickr
and some groups have monthly contests
http://www.flickr.com/photos/55778206@N05/
if you choose to do this then you can message me on flickr and i can tell you some of the groups that i know that do contest
Sorry not trying to put you off - just giving the reality story being aware that very few photographers actually have that as their only day job, especially in the creative field.
Sorry - will stop now ... but suggest you get in with local portrait photographers and work the market.