To learn about or refresh yourself on the qualities of a merit image Download the "12 elements of a merit image".pdf to assist you when planning for your image competition entry.
A Mind Map of the 12 Elements on was pulbished on PPmag.com by Lisa Dillon, M.Photog.Cr., CPP, and Bryan Welsh, Cr. Photog., API. They share a fresh perspective on PPA's International Photographic Competition. Specifically, they look at the "12 Elements of a Merit Image" in a new light. They write:
"If you're new to image competition, it can feel like a game. It's possible you have only a passing familiarity with the 12 elements of a merit image. Yes, the list is displayed at every image competition and a short description of each element can be found on the PPA website. But do you really understand what they mean? Do you understand how they underpin one another and build upon one another?
Rather than looking at the elements as a checklist, Lisa and Bryan created a mind map (a diagram used to visually organize information) for a unique take on these elements and how to succeed in the IPC.

Read their fascinating article, "A Fresh Look at the 12 Elements", at PPmag.comwww. today!
Come to our Annual Awards Ceremony for the presentation of the:
- Photographer of the Year (non-Masters) in each of the categories
- Photographer of the Year (non-Masters) in each of the categories
- Certified Photographer of the Year
- Neophyte Photographer of the Year
- Most Improved Photographer of the Year
- Court of Honors (non-Masters) in each of the categories
- Court of Honors (Masters) in each of the categories
- The Treskunoff Award
- The Rookie Award
- The Reueben Schaller Award [Best child under 16]
- The Judge's Choice Awards
- The People's Choice Award
- The Gerri Karamesinis Award [Best Prop(s)]
- Best Black and White Award
- The Nancy Holowitz Memorial BEST in Show Award
Just think how wonderful your studio will look when you display one of these awards and can brag to your clients that you are an award winning photographer.