Photography News issue 18

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Competitions

CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT James Woodend’s Aurora over a glacier lagoon was the overall winner in 2014. A highly commended photo of the Venus- Lunar occultation taken by O Chul Kwon. People and space category winner Eugen Kamenew’s photo. A highly commended shot by Patrick Cullis. Bill Snyder’s shot of the Horsehead Nebula won in the Deep Space category in 2014.

How is the judging panel selected and what will they be looking for this year? The judges have deliberately been selected to bring a very wide range of expertise to the panel. We have professional research scientists like Professor Chris Lintott and Dr Maggie Aderin‑Pocock from the BBC’s The Sky At Night show, and expert astrophotographers like Will Gater and Pete Lawrence, but also people from the worlds of the press and the arts. Are the judges looking for extraordinary astronomical sights or technical ability – what’s the balance? Ultimately we’re all looking for beautiful images that make you go ‘wow’! The competition is as much about artistry as it is about science and high-level photography skills. Having said that, when an image breaks new ground or displays an incredible degree of technical competence, that definitely counts in its favour. And, as a scientist, I always have a soft spot for images that highlight interesting astronomical phenomena or tell a compelling story about our relationship with the cosmos. Are there any sights that you’d like to seemore of in the competition? Planetary photography is one of the most technically challenging areas – but challenges seem to bring out the best in the astrophotography community. It would be great to see more shots of planets such as Venus and Mars. What is the best advice you can give to someone who fancies their chances in the competition this year? Some astrophotographers have years of experience and a backyard full of expensive kit. Don’t be put off!

Prizewinning shots have been taken by absolute beginners using ordinary cameras and basic telescopes. An eye for a beautiful picture is by far the most important thing. Think twice about submitting ‘glamour’ shots to the People and Space category, please! It’s generally rather cold at night, so it just looks really odd if people are standing under the stars without the appropriate attire… What would you say to tempt readers to have a go at astrophotography and enter the competition? The night sky is one of the wonders of the natural world – and it’s freely accessible to everyone. Plus, if you win, your photo will go on display at one of the most famous observatories in the world. Grab your camera, get your coat on and head outside, as there’s still plenty of time to get your entry in before the competition closing date of 16 April. If you’ve already got a Flickr account, submitting your images is simple: just save them to your public photostream and use the online entry form to complete the process. If you aren’t already on Flickr, it’s easy enough to set up an account (www.flickr.com). You can enter up to five images and this year there are eight categories to choose from. Winners will be announced on 17 September and if you scoop the top prize you’ll be in for a £2500 windfall! Reachfor thestars π To find out more, go to www.rmg.co.uk.

Prizewinning shots have been taken by absolute beginners using ordinary cameras. An eye for a beautiful pictures is by far themost important thing

Photography News | Issue 18

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