**January 2014 Photo Contest Final Round**

[ohheckyeah]

39. Truthfully.....

I think most people, even actual art contest judges go with what they have a visceral reaction to. They know all about the technical side of photography: focus, exposure, depth of field, rule of thirds, etc. and they often still pick a photo that isn't particularly well done technically, but it speaks to them. One good example was an art contest at the college where I took photography and graphic classes. It was in October 2001. I entered a black and white photo and got second place with it. Best in show which covered every art medium was a not particularly well done color photo of a flag over a door. Why? September 11, 2001. It won against some amazing paintings, drawings, mixed media, and other color photos.

Another contest I was in I took best of show with a photo that I liked but I definitely didn't think it was best in show. I took first place in black and white with a photo that I personally thought was better than the one that took best in show. A photo I took that I absolutely loved did the worst of my entrees with an honorable mention. It was meaningful to me, but not to other people.

The point is, people like what they like. They don't necessarily care if it is technically perfect or imperfect - it's just what they like. Look at the photos in the finals here.....5 out of 10 are of a water scene. People like the beach and water, it appeals to them on an emotional and visual level. They are very well done as well, but I think it still boils down to emotions.