Competitions

Internal Competitions

The club organise an internal monthly competition for both digital photographs and prints.  Digital photos should be submitted in jpeg format sized at 1024x768 pixels in sRGB colour space (check our Tip Sheet #1 for more information on how to do this).  Prints can be any size but must be mounted on card.  Don't be concerned by this - any of our regular members will help ensure your pictures are the right size and in the right format!

Currently each member can submit a maximum of four pictures into the monthly competitions, with a maximum of three images in any one category.  All internal competitions are normally judged within the club by one of our own members (occasionally we arrange for a guest judge from another club).  There are no annual competitions, trophies or medals.

External Competitions

L&CPU
The Lancashire & Cheshire Photographic Union (L&CPU) is the umbrella organisation for all photographic clubs in the old counties of Lancashire & Cheshire, and members of the club can automatically enter their competitions.

The rules are reviewed annually but currently prints should be mounted on 50 x 40 cm mounts, digital files should be 1400 x 1050 pixels in sRGB colour space and slides should be mounted in standard 5 x 5 cm mounts.  Entries are submitted in April, so members are usually asked to bring in their entries in March.

Members need to have entered L&CPU annual competitions for at least two years before they can apply for the CPAGB merit award (Credit - Photographic Alliance of Great Britain).

ICPA
The Inter Club Photographic Allliance (ICPA) is a group of 17 local clubs, with an annual competition where clubs can enter up to 10 prints and 10 digital images.  Darwen always look to enter work from all members who want to participate, and entries are usually selected in May.

Darwen Civic Society
The local civic society organise an annual themed competition which is free to enter and is open to all.  Last year's theme was "Darwen Cemeteries throughout the year".  The closing date for entries is usually in May or June, and the society offer cash prizes to the winning entries.

Leyland Invitation Competition
Leyland Photographic Society organise an annual competition for members of local clubs each Autumn.  Entrants can enter up to 3 prints but there is a charge for entry.