asp images of distinction competition

American Society of Photographers (ASP) has announced their second annual image competition. Images of Distinction (IOD) was wildly successful in it’s inaugural year. Using the same criteria for judging, and Professional Photographers of America jurors the event is a great way to get feedback on your photographic imagery. Check out the rules at PrintCompetition.com  And get start getting your images ready.

ASP Images of Distinction February 25-26, 2022

What’s different?

IOD uses scores on the first day of judging. The following day there is image commentary for all makers who wish to receive feedback on their work. This is an invaluable part of the learning process to get your images ready for Professional Photographers of America’s (PPA) International Photographic Competition (IPC). Kristy Steeves shares her thoughts on how the process helped her achieve Diamond status in the Artist category and Platinum in the Open categories at PPA’s IPC.

I interview Kristy about last years ASP – IOD success and why you’ll benefit from entering.
https://youtu.be/-02oPm0LV6Y
Yours in Creative Photography,        Bob

litra light kit Platypod

Platypod Litra Close up kits

Platypod is down to just a couple of dozen Litra Torch 2.0s in their Litra Clearance Sale. Great savings if you’re looking for some terrific gear and lighting, especially for close-up and macro – it’s worth checking out.

Here’s how I set mine up for some up, close and personal images of this studio floral.

floral image bob coates photography

And, here’s the Behind the Scenes.

platypod litra kit set upThe goose-necks screw right into the Platypod and make it easy to position your lights.

These lights are also great as quick a hand-hold fill when on location. They take up minimal space in your camera bag. They also have a magnet on the bottom. Get ’em before their gone. Free shipping on orders of a hundred bucks or more. Only while supplies last. https://www.platypod.com/collections/tripods-1

Yours in Creative Photography,         Bob

International Photographic Competition – IPC

International Photographic Competition – IPC

International Photographic Competition (IPC) starts on Sunday.

If you have an interest in photography and would like to see some incredible work this is the place for you. Starting Sunday September 12 at 9AM EST through Wednesday you’ll have the opportunity to see the scoring along with comments when the judges challenge the results.
The header image above was titled ‘Taking Flight’ and was awarded LOAN Collection status two years ago.

Professional Photographers of America (PPA)

IPC is presented by PPA. It’s the chance for makers to have their work reviewed by trained judges. The resulting scores are part of the PPA Master of Photography Degree system. The degrees are designed to recognize above average work by above average photographers. This is also part of the initial selection process for Team USA in the Photographic World Cup as images are selected from the Image Excellence Award winners for the International Competition.

‘Orange Outburst’ is a water droplet photo made it into the PPA LOAN Collection last year. The LOAN Collection name will be changed to Image Excellence Award this year.

PPA image makers work all year to prepare their work for this event.

You can watch

While the competition is geared toward professional photographers and PPA members you are welcome to pull up a chair and join in the learning. You can stream IPC live from Sept 12–15. Judging starts each day at 9am ET. if you are not a PPA member? Create a free account to watch live. http://stream.theipc.org

Review of Macro Photography Book by Don Komarechka

Review of Macro Photography Book by Don Komarechka

Macro Photography: The Universe at Our Feet by Don Komarechka

Gotta tell ya, if you are wanting to start macro photography, or want to improve the macro work you are now creating, get this book. I’ve been a fan of Komarechka’s work ever since I saw his first snowflakes photos. He’s a master at his craft with a healthy curiosity that has him pushing the limits of the medium.

The layout is clean and easy to read with clear illustrations. © Don Komarechka

Worth the price

When I first saw the price on the book I was a little hesitant. So glad I pulled the trigger and got it. This is a solid reference on macro photography that beginners and experienced photographers will enjoy. I wrote a more in-depth review over at PhotoFocus. You can check it out here. https://photofocus.com/reviews/a-masterclass-in-macro-with-new-book-from-don-komarechka

Yours in Creative Photography,         Bob

See more of Don’s work here. https://www.donkom.ca

You can order a copy of the book here. https://amzn.to/3zkt6Qf Remember I am an Amazon affiliate and will receive a small fee if you use this link.

Zen and the art of camera care – Lets Develop Webinar

Zen and the art of camera care – Lets Develop Webinar

I’ll be chatting with Chris Wooley about tips and tricks for taking care of, and supporting, your camera and computer gear. This will be a webinar packed with information. I’ll also be sharing a resources file with links to the material covered including some discounts I have worked out. Link below to sign up at no charge. See you there!

ZEN and the Art of Camera Care with Bob Coates is coming up on Wednesday! Registration is now live on American Color Imaging‘s website.

Bob is going to share his tips and tricks for taking care of your camera, workstation, and enhancing your workflow. Wednesday Aug 4. Free Registration Required: https://acilab.com/lets-develop/ep9-bob-coates

Yours in Creative Photography,        Bob