Sidmouth Photographic Club’s 24/25 Season Competition League has begun in earnest, with the first two internal contests receiving a bumper batch of entries and inspiring a contingent of the club’s newest members to enter the tournament for the first time. 

In mid-October, guest judge Norman Marsh (from Dorchester Camera Club) presided over Competition 1, which had invited members to submit one Printed and two DPI (Digitally Projected) images. A total of 70 photographs were entered across three sections, including the club’s newly formed ‘A’ Group for beginner to intermediate level photographers.

The Print section set the evening off to a flying start with 16 stunning images submitted, the DPI ‘A’ contest then followed with 14 images from the membership’s rising stars and after a coffee break came 40 polished entries in the ever popular DPI ‘B’ Group, for intermediate to advanced members. Every image was critiqued and evaluated by the judge for technique, the story the photo told, creativity, and how it conveyed emotion. 

Competition 2 was held in mid-November with John Tilsley (also from Dorchester Camera Club) in the judge’s hot seat. The contest criteria this time was two printed images and one DPI - eliciting 64 entries and a diverse range of image topics across the three sections.

A strong showing of 35 prints impressed the judge from the outset and he complimented the club on the high standard of photography on show. Following the club’s judging guidelines, John awarded 50% of the images in categories Gold, Silver, Bronze and Commended. In the second half of the evening, the judge gave considered, positive and comprehensive critique together with suggestions aimed at helping members understand their strengths and any areas for improvement. 

Both of these enjoyable evenings were well received by the audience - viewing submissions from fellow members can inspire new ideas and techniques and encourage photographers to think creatively, step out of their comfort zones and enjoy being part of a supportive community. 

Images from Competitions 1 and 2 are shown here. More information about the club and its programme of activities can be found at www.sidmouthphotoclub.org