Photograph Compos: Lessons Learned

Participating in a photo competition can evoke a mix of apprehension and excitement. When you submit an image for evaluation, you are sharing a piece of your creative vision with someone who may not fully grasp your intentions. Often, the judge is an experienced photographer, and this can amplify feelings of vulnerability, as there is always the concern that they may highlight the gaps in your skills - leading to feelings of imposter syndrome. However, this experience can also be incredibly rewarding, offering valuable feedback and an opportunity for growth that can enhance your craft and boost your confidence. Embracing both the challenges and rewards of competition can ultimately lead to personal and artistic development.

I vividly remember my first experience entering a photograph into a competition, which was hosted by the Galway Camera Club. As the judging night approached, I felt a mixture of nerves and excitement. To my absolute astonishment, my image secured first place in the Beginners Category! I was overjoyed.

The photograph captured a side profile of my daughter, Katie, as she watched "Dora the Explorer" on our TV. At the time, I didn’t have a proper black backdrop, so I creatively used a black coat instead. The setup was incredibly simple, yet I was thrilled with the result, and it seemed the judges felt the same way. This experience not only boosted my confidence but also reinforced my love for photography.

I remember another photo competition where I submitted a truly stunning image of my youngest daughter, Saoirse. I was confident that it would take first place, but to my dismay, the judge chose a different photograph. At that moment, I felt devastated. However, this experience taught me a valuable lesson: different judges have diverse preferences and tastes. A judge who specializes in wildlife photography may not appreciate the nuances of portraiture.

It's important to remember that you can't please everyone, and feedback is subjective. Instead of taking critiques personally, I learned to focus on my own appreciation for the work. If you love an image, take pride in it, regardless of others' opinions. Ultimately, photography is about personal expression, and your passion for your art is what truly matters.

Over the years, I have submitted more images of Saoirse, and I’m proud to say that she has helped me secure wins in various competitions judged by different panels. Each victory has been a testament to her natural charm and the unique moments we've captured together.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the accomplishments of my middle child, Roisin, who has also performed remarkably well in photography competitions. The most recent event I entered her into was with the Solas Photography Club, where the theme was "Expressional Portraits." I was delighted when she secured second place and the image got plenty of giggles from the audience!

Cathal Bowe Photography

www.bowetography.com