by Bob Stavers

One of the most popular “departments” at the county fair has always been the photography exhibit. Perhaps this results from the desire in all of us to capture in a meaningful way the wonderful beauty and excitement that abounds in our island paradise.

The photography exhibit has grown very rapidly since the “digital revolution” and the ease with which we can quickly turn out images. The large increase in the number of entries has not, unfortunately, come with an increase in quality, and a number of you commented on this during the fair last summer. These comments came from both observers and participants alike and often came with a desire to learn how to take better pictures.

In response to these comments, and to provide an enhanced and more educational experience for all participants (entrants and viewers alike) we are making a number of changes this year. We hope that this will encourage all photographers out there to give thought to creating photographs specifically for the fair, encourage more of you to enter, and invite everyone to stop in and see the educational aspects of the exhibit. The fair brochure details all of these changes, so please read it closely.

This summer there will be separate open and competitive divisions. Judging in the open division will be similar to past years where each entry is judged on its own merits, against a “pre-set standard” with multiple blue, red and white ribbons awarded. In the competitive division there will only be one First, Second, and Third place ribbon in each class. Winning photographs from both divisions will be grouped together for display. Photographers can submit photos to one or both of these divisions as they chose.

In addition, there will be a number of “how to” exhibits showing what makes a good photo, whether it is creative impact, technique, lighting or composition.

So, get those competitive juices flowing and tap into that creative energy! Take a chance and take your best shot and see how it compares to others in the competitive division. Not so adventurous? Take your best shot and enter in one of the categories in the open division. Either way, you get a chance to display your work and everyone wins when you do that.

I look forward to seeing your photographs in August.

Bob Stavers is Supervisor of the San Juan County Fair Photography Department.