Competition Levels Defined

Every month the Open Color category allows each participant (beginner, intermediate, advanced and master) to compete against others in their skill level. Because of this, each competitor must choose a level at the beginning of the year in which they will compete. This selection should reflect the competitor’s skill level as defined below. If you feel like you are between two levels, we encourage you to select the higher level so you can be challenged and learn from others. This way your photography can improve. Once you choose your level, you can opt to move up a level, but you cannot go back down to a previous level.

NOTE: These descriptions are deliberately broad, so do your best to determine your competition level. If you have any questions, just email the club from the Contacts menu on our website.

Beginner level is reserved for folks who have little-to-no experience with photography. You might still be learning how to compose images, how to get the desired exposure, how to use your camera, etc.

Intermediate level is for photographers who have been involved in making photos for a while. You feel comfortable around a camera, understand basic composition, and have a pretty good understanding about exposure. You may have entered competitions or juried exhibits.

Advanced level is for people who know what they are doing. You are confident around the camera. You know how to manage exposure. You have probably entered photo competitions in the past.

Master is for those beyond Advanced.