Past Judges Tips: Moose Peterson

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What makes a winning nature or bird photograph for you?

The ingredients I look for in my own bird photography for the images I want to share with the world is rather on the complex side though can be stated succinctly. I'm looking for the uncommon in the common. This in part includes those wise words of Jay Maisel, "Light, colour and gesture." This also requires a background that sets the stage for the star of the photograph and helps complete their story. Like I said, while it can be stated simply, there are lots of balls in the air to make the photograph come together to grab the viewer's heartstrings.

What key advice can you offer to entrants?

Those of you who enter the contest, understand from my point of view, you are already a winner! First, that's because you followed your passion to go out and make the photograph. Second and more important though, you are sharing with the world your passion through your photography. And lastly, the passion coming through the photograph you are sharing can change the world. So thank you for entering! My advice to you is to use the KISS theorem ... Keep It Simple Stupid. Smack the viewer between the eyes with your subject (which doesn't mean fill the frame with them) and tell their story in your words being a true, visual storyteller!