I participated in the annual “Anything Goes, Almost” art show competition put on by the San Angelo Art Club. I had entered two photographs, but because I have been under the weather for the past several days, I was unable to attend the opening reception and judging.
I did get a phone call this morning from one of the club members, and she told me that one of my images, “Winter Wren”, had won third place in the photography category. So I will be getting a cash award and a ribbon. I was hoping for a first place, but of course, it always is up to the judges. Besides, I haven’t been to the gallery to see the photographs that beat me out.
The second piece that I had entered and was my personal favorite, “Hawk in Tree”, apparently failed to place. I will show both of them to you, and you can see what I entered. The frames pictured here are digital, and not the real frames that are hanging in the gallery.
"Winter Wren" - third place
"Hawk in Tree"
So back to the cameras and I will see what I can do about improving my place at the next show. As a side note, I might mention that I entered one of my water lily photos in this same show about three years ago. I did win first place in that competition. That same image won 4th place color against 27,500 other color entries in a contest sponsored by Canon and Photographers Forum magazine. Fourth place doesn’t sound like much, but since it was 4th in about 27,500 entries, I was rather pleased. There were no sub-categories in that competition. Just simply color or black-and-white.
Win or lose, I really enjoy entering competitions. I think that over the years I have won four first place, six second place, and more thirds than I care to admit to. Also there were several, honorable mentions, but that’s like being kissed by your cousin. 🙂
Of course, there also is the chance one the above will sell at the show, as they will be hanging at the gallery through April 30.
Texas Tweeties by Bob Zeller 
These are very nice images and definitely deserving of recognition! I’m thinking of entering a local (state) nature photography contest; any advice on selecting photographs? It would be my first contest…
Gosh, it is hard to think what advice to give. If it is wildlife, like birds or animals, I think the judges go for some animation, like the bird flapping a wing, or an animal eating something or playing around. Something “cute”. But really it is hard to predict what any judge will like. Just go with what you think is th best. They also look for good composition, and make sure you don’t have any distracting elements.
Congratulations on your award!!! That’s awesome!!
(Now I need to stop laughing at your kissing cousin remark! 🙂 )
Thanks, Deb. You know me. I always have to include a chuckle or two. 🙂
That’s great, Holly. I’m really happy for you. I’m sure you have other great photos, too. That was one that came to mind. I hope we both do well. I entered two. Good luck to both of us. 🙂
Congratulations on your win!! Either one is definitely deserving of a prize!! …. and WOW – to win 4th place in a competition with 27,500 entries??? That’s AMAZING!!!
Thanks, Hollly. By the way, I just checked back on that contest. That was in 1999, and there was actually 29,193 entries. That contest for 2011 is now underway and you can enter at: http://pfmagazine.com/photography-contest/enter-contest-online/
I think you could enter that moon shot you just had framed, for example. Time to get your feet wet, Holly 🙂
I have confidence in you. 🙂 Good luck!!
What the heck… you talked me into it!! I just entered my moon photo!! 🙂 The entry fee really wasn’t too bad, and now I can at least say that I’ve entered a contest. It’s going to kill me waiting until August to hear any results! Thanks so much for telling me about this!
Congrats Bob! I remember that Wren, and remember commenting about the line differentiating light and shadow, it’s a great shot and well deserving of an award!
Glad to hear of all the placements you’ve made in various competitions, I can’t say the same 🙂 Good luck in your future challenges!
Thanks, Michael. I remember your comments. I only wish I could have thought of a better title for it. I considered something relating to the shadow but couldn’t think of any thing catchy. I may have to change it to “The Shadow Knows”. 🙂
Bob, Your 3rd place “Winter Wren” entry is obviously an award winner any time. You really were in the right place for the light to bring out the brilliant colors of this little creature and contrast that with the lengthening shadows. Nice job.
Jim
Thanks, Jim, for the kind words. And thanks for visiting my blog. I hope you will return.
Bob Zeller
Oh the judges for a given day..you may ponder forever their way..Your wren in the snow should no doubt have placed 1st for composition and simplicity of subject matter..I would surmise the judges were artists and not photographers..personally I love the hawk and the results you obtained with it. But third is okay…hope you are feeling better..I don’t do judged shows anymore as the last one I did was early on in my art career and I did not get over the critique for a month or so..good not even paint so decided that was not for me..Love your work…
Thanks, Syl. I appreciate you kind words. By the way, I love your painted rocks and I have added you to my blogroll so other people can enjoy them, too.
Way to go, Bob! Save the prize money for margaritas! 🙂
You got it, bro! 🙂
Get well soon, too, bro.