What Makes an Award-Winning Photo?

Entering the KBLA Photo Contest is a great opportunity to celebrate the beauty, character, and spirit of our lake community — and to share your unique perspective through photography. Whether you're using a smartphone or a DSLR, capturing a winning photo comes down to more than just luck. Here are some key elements to keep in mind when taking and submitting your shots:

1. Subject: Tell a Story

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Every memorable photo has a clear subject — the person, scene, or detail that immediately captures attention. Ask yourself: What is this photo about? What do I want people to feel or notice? The subject should connect to one of the contest’s themes (e.g., Wildlife, Lake Life, Lake Kids, or Nature) and ideally evoke emotion, curiosity, or a sense of place. Simpler is often better — avoid visual clutter that distracts from your main subject.

2. Composition: Arrange Your Frame With Purpose

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Good composition helps guide the viewer’s eye through the image in a natural and satisfying way. Here are a few principles to consider:

• Rule of Thirds: Imagine a grid dividing your image into thirds horizontally and vertically. Placing your subject at one of the intersections often creates a more dynamic photo than centering it.
• Depth: Include elements in the foreground, middle ground, and background to create a sense of space.
• Framing: Use natural elements like trees, dock rails, or shadows to frame your subject and add focus.
• Simplicity: Avoid distractions. Sometimes what you leave out is as important as what you include.

3. Lighting: Capture the Right Moment

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Lighting can dramatically affect the mood and quality of your image. Consider:

• Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise or before sunset offers soft, warm lighting that flatters most subjects.
• Backlighting: Shooting into the light can create silhouettes or dramatic effects — just be sure your subject is still recognizable.
• Overcast Light: Cloudy days offer even lighting that reduces harsh shadows — perfect for portraits or wildlife.
• Reflections and Shadows: Water surfaces, window light, or dock shadows can add visual interest.

4. Timing and Patience

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Great shots often require waiting for the right moment — whether it’s a bird in flight, a child mid-jump, or the perfect ripple on the lake. Take multiple photos if you can, and don’t be afraid to experiment from different angles or distances.

5. Editing and Submitting

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Basic editing can help enhance your image, but aim to keep things natural. Slight adjustments to exposure, contrast, or cropping are fine — but avoid over-processing with filters or extreme saturation.

Before submitting:

• Choose your best work — quality over quantity.
• Make sure your photo is high-resolution and properly labeled (check contest instructions).
• Include a short caption or description if required — sometimes context can strengthen your image’s impact.

Past Winners Who Got It Right

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For inspiration, check out past winners who combined strong subject matter, thoughtful composition, and great lighting:

Entering Your Photo

Explore the lake through your lens and show us what you see. Whether it’s a quiet moment, a burst of summer energy, or a hidden detail others might miss, your photo could help capture the essence of our lakes — and maybe even win in one of our five (5) categories. To enter:

• Make sure you are logged into your KBLA Member portal.
• Visit the contest page.
• Upload your entries. Each member can enter up to three (3) photos into this years contest.
• All entries must be submitted by September 7, 2025.