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With WPPI's Second Half Competition call for entries now open, the timing couldn't be better for giving photographers insight into how the judges critique and provide valuable feedback on each image when judging Second Half.
WPPI Content Director Arlene Evans tells us that the goal of WPPI's Second Half Online competition is to "encourage, educate and motivate wedding and portrait photographers committed to their craft." It is the second of three WPPI Awards, which also includes First Half and The Annual: 16x20 Print, Album and Filmmaking competitions.
First Place, Creative Division: Fashion/Beauty, 2019. © Maja Topcagic
[Read: How WPPI's Photo Competitions Inspire Creativity]
Adds Evans: "I think it’s so important for photographers to participate in competitions. It’s a great way to see what your peers are creating and achieving recognition in the community."
The Second Half is the final step to receive constructive advice from the judges and allows the photographer to best choose the image or images that they feel will be the most impactful in The Annual. Also, having two video categories expands the opportunities for both photographers and filmmakers.
Image by Vinny Labella, Associate of WPPI, Second Place, Wedding: Party/Family and Friends, Silver 2019. © Vinny Labella
First Half and Second Half entrants receive written critiques from three judges for each digital image submitted with an option for an audio critique. The judges' feedback prepares entrants for the next phase of the awards program and helps them progress on their journey of growth and prestige within their community.
Left to right: WPPI Print Comp judges Audrey Woulard, Natalie Licini and Pete Wright share their insights on how they give constructive feedback on all of WPPI's competitions.
Rangefinder asked WPPI judges Natalie Licini, Audrey Woulard and Pete Wright how they each approach an image when judging the WPPI competitions and doling out constructive feedback. Here's what they had to say:
How do you critique these images in a way where the image-makers can truly learn from the feedback?
Natalie Licini: When I offer feedback to entrants, I focus on technical areas to improve. I might say, "Bring out the detail in the shadow areas. Avoid cropping hands or arms." My approach is to respectfully pinpoint specific areas to address in the image.