I’m still chasing that 80! I deliberately chose a whole different set of images with different lighting techniques, different emotions and images that completely broke some posing rules hoping to get a different perspective on the judging. I still didn’t reach an 80 on the scoring. In fact, my images scored lower, on average, than they ever have. My images scored between 72 and 74.

70-75: Below Professional Average—Requires improvement in technique: Anything below a 70 is not even required at a professional level. So, while my work didn’t score exactly where I wanted it to, the good news (happy face) is that all of the work I submitted is considered to be of a professional standard—just below a professional average.  Above each image, I will post the score I received, along with the judges’ comments.

74: Watch horizon lines through subject

74: Lighting/exposure needs work; Lighting and posing need improvement

72: Posing needs refinement; Lighting and posing need improvement

72: Watch horizon line through subject; Lighting and composition need improvement

72: Posing needs refinement; Need a stronger story and emotional connection

 

72: Posing needs refinement; Need a stronger story and emotional connection

72: Posing needs refinement; Lighting and posing need improvement

I’m not sure that I’ll ever reach this personal goal, but it remains to be important to me. I don’t even think this is important to my clients, but it’s important to prove to myself that my photography skills and techniques are viewed as professional by other professionals in the industry. In a world where there are photographers at virtually every corner, I’m constantly looking for ways to set myself apart from them. I don’t want to be average. I don’t want run-of-the-mill skills. I want to offer a service to my clients that is above-average, quality, unforgettable and undeniably professional. I view this process as a way to achieve that—to advance my skills and understanding of photography and to be able to offer the a top-notch service, product and experience to my customers.

Now begins my preparation for the 16X20 print competition in Vegas next year! Until next time, be positive, happy, and healthy, and don’t forget to be photographed.

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I am a San Antonio-based wedding and senior photographer who started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. As one of the up-and-coming San Antonio wedding photographers, I am also available to shoot in Austin, Houston and Dallas and the surrounding areas. I am also available for destination weddings worldwide. Ata-Girl Photography Co. offers an amazing wedding photography service that you won’t soon forget.  As a professional photographer, my sole purpose is to provide you the absolute best photography experience.

I am a professional photographer who enjoys documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I love hiking, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and most importantly, I enjoy seeing my daughters happy!

The post, Results of the WPPI Second Half Print Competition (2014), first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.