IGPOTY: Three Weeks and Counting
Posted in Around the Garden on November 12 2012, by Matt Newman
Worldwide exposure, thousands of dollars in prize money, and the chance to see your work displayed alongside that of the globe’s most talented nature photographers–the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition offers a seriously tempting package. But what it doesn’t offer is an infinite submission window! The November 30 deadline is nearly at our doorstep, and as the official U.S. IGPOTY partner, we’re not playing coy about pushing our talented fans and visitors to get their work out in the open.
With a little under three weeks until the contest shutters for 2012, I can’t emphasize enough what an opportunity this is for those who patron The New York Botanical Garden. For professional photographers, IGPOTY is the next step in bolstering your name among garden photography circles; for amateurs, it’s a chance to prove your mettle with the big players. Whichever the case, a win during IGPOTY boils down to a shot in the arm for your photography career (and your bank account).
No matter where you’re from, or what your specialty, there’s likely a category with your name on it–IGPOTY wasted no time in filling out their contest list with stacks of setting and subject genres. So don’t jump to the conclusion that your photographic focus is too broad or too specific to get in on the action; have a look at what’s on offer this year, then make your decision. And don’t forget that beyond IGPOTY’s standing categories, the NYBG is offering partner prizes and gallery recognition in our own “Wellness” category.
Here’s the low-down for those who need the what, when, where, how, and why.
International Garden Photographer of the Year
– Entries (submitted electronically) are due by November 30, 2012
– Over $18,000 in total prize money to be awarded
– Nine individual categories open to submission and judging
– A chance to have your photograph displayed in a touring gallery exhibition
– Worldwide recognition of your photography, and input from experienced professionals
Wellness: The Power of Plants Photo Competition
– $500 for first place, $250 for second, $100 for third, and $50 to each of three runners up
– A chance at seeing your photograph hang in the Garden’s Ross Gallery
– A stepping stone to IGPOTY success
Interest piqued? IGPOTY has come to represent the absolute height of garden photography worldwide, and sure, you can always wait until next year to send in your photography. But the recognition, the pride, and the money are up for grabs right now, so why procrastinate? Get your work out there!
All photos courtesy of the International Garden Photography of the Year competition.
