The 2023 CA 4-H Photography Contest is returning to the in-person contest format. No virtual participation is available.
The California 4-H Photography Contest provides an opportunity for 4-H members ages 9-18, as of December 31, 2022, to showcase their best photographs taken within the past 4-H year. There are no prior requirements to enter this state-level competition.
Contest Divisions
Questions? Please contact 4hsfd@ucanr.edu.
Competition Coordinator: John Trammell at jwtrammell87@gmail.com
This year's contest will be located in the north hallway of Hart Hall next to Wellman Hall. Click here for Google Maps directions.
Time | Activity |
8:00 - 9:30 am | Check-in |
10:30 am - 2:00 pm* | Evaluation |
2:00 - 3:30 pm | Public Viewing |
3:30 - 4:30 pm | Photo Pick-up |
Competition entries that do not follow the rules above are subject to be marked down on their score or not accepted at all.
Evaluation Sheet (Updated March 2023)
Competition Entries will be evaluated in the following areas:
Adjustment of the distance setting on a lens to appropriately define the subject. Standard: Subject(s) are in focus and sharp, unless blurriness is obviously intentional (ex: to show motion).
The overall brightness and contrast in the photo. Standard: A range of light-to-dark contrast, not over or under exposed, unless it is obviously intended.
Placement of the subject in the photo demonstrating artistic ability. Standard: A pleasing balance exists among all components of the composition (ex: Rule of Thirds).
Creativity is the original, fresh, and external expression of the imagination of the photographer to convey an idea, message, or thought. Standard: The subject can be easily identified by viewers, and captured in a creative way. Photograph not over cluttered with many subjects.
The sense an individual gets when viewing a photograph for the first time. Compelling photographs evoke laughter, sadness, anger, pride, wonder or another intense emotion. Standard: The photograph displays an impact on the viewer.
Photograph print is placed on a mount/mat board to display the photographers work in an art show. Mount/mat board color should be complement the photograph but not distract the viewer from the image. The print and mount/mat board should be clean and have smooth cut edges. Suggested method for mounting: Spray Adhesive Technique. Standard: Photograph print is mounted straight and proper. Photograph must stay mounted on its board and not fall while on display.
Print and matboard size. Standard: Did the photographer follow the competition rules by using the correct size requirements?
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. One beautiful thing about art is that each viewer might collect his own message or read her own story in an image. Standard: Your photograph displays a specific message or shares a story with the evaluator.
The Danish Judging System is used for the photography competition.
Everyone will compete within their age division for Gold, Blue, Red, or Green. All participants will receive a color seal and an evaluation sheet for each photograph.
Platinum and Gold Winners: receive a photography hat pin and are considered for Best of Division and Best of Show.
Best of Division: Receives a small ribbon.
Best of Show: Receives a rosette ribbon.