Be thorough. If you must take one phrase from this talk; it is that one.

Z-Academy does not disappoint in bringing to us zombies speakers that are able to allow us to see through their mind’s eye. This latest talk is by far, a cut above the rest and is the best put-together. Jijo really walked us through a very structured talk about how to create winning photos.

He started with what he means when he says photographs that win. They are photos that win contest – yes; wins followers – yes again; wins respect – okay yes. But he also mentioned; wins respect and brings us back to why we started taking photos in the first place, because it is fun and rewarding. It’s not just about the points then, but about going back to the roots of that feeling you got looking at the magic of your first real photograph.

What’s interesting about this talk is the point of view Jijo takes. Jijo speaks as a judge not just as one who wins photo contests though he certainly has his fair share of winning photos; he’s an even more accomplished judge. And we could take a lot from that. A glimpse of what professional judges look for in our photos. And perhaps, give us some insight into what goes on in the mind of a judge.

Be thorough is a repeating message throughout the entire talk. It’s like an underlying beat that drums the concept deeper into your subconscious. Be thorough in keeping to the theme.

Stick to the theme by making it your subject; if the theme is something red make the subject be red and not just the backdrop behind your main subject. Be thorough and know the rules, your competition, the copyright clauses. Be thorough and attempt to see beauty even in places where others would write off. Be thorough in your execution; composition, framing, choosing what to take out or leave in the photograph; where your focus is at, even up to the choice of paper and printing. Be thorough – be deliberate.

While serendipity and chance can sometimes win photo contests; it is very reassuring to know that slow, deliberate and thoroughly planned and created photos can increase your chances. Thoroughly thought through photographs are possible winners already. Happy shooting!

Story by Tony Rivera