The event will be held on November 3, 2026 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

How Would You Score This Image?

Have you ever looked at a competition image and wondered, “Why did the judges give it that score?”

This interactive evening will take some of the mystery out of photographic competition judging by exploring how images are typically evaluated using CAPA judging criteria.

We'll begin by discussing the key elements judges consider when evaluating an image and how those elements contribute to an overall score. We'll look at what makes an image technically strong, how execution and creativity influence the evaluation, and what gives a photograph visual impact.

Put Your Judging Skills to the Test

The real learning begins when you become the judge.

Members will work in small groups to review a selection of photographs and assign scores based on the criteria we've discussed. Groups will then compare their scores and discuss the reasons behind their decisions.

This hands-on approach will give you an opportunity to:

• Practice evaluating photographs using CAPA criteria
• Identify the strengths and weaknesses of an image
• Understand why different judges may see the same photograph differently
• Discuss how technical quality, execution, creativity/originality, and visual impact contribute to a score
• Develop a more critical and informed photographic eye
• Apply what you learn when selecting and preparing your own images for competition

There won't necessarily be a single “correct” score. The discussion about why you scored an image the way you did is an important part of the learning experience.

Whether you're an experienced competition entrant or have never entered an image, this evening will provide a practical introduction to the judging process—and help you look at your own photographs with a more critical eye.