NIPA Round 5

Friday the 24th saw the last adjudication evening of the Northern Ireland Photographic Association’s ‘Wex Interclub Competition’. The standard was so high in this ‘Open’ round, with lots of amazing portrait images and more birds making an appearance in some beautiful wildlife shots.

I was over the moon to learn that a couple of my own Birds of Prey images did quite well. “Oracle’ managed to win a starred award, and ‘Loki’ was close behind with 12 points (one point off a star award.) It’s more astounding to me that as a portrait photographer, popping out of my comfort zone shooting wildlife photography really paid off!

I have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year competing in this competition. Coming away with 4 stars in 5 rounds is such a boost to my confidence and the whole things has made me a better photographer. Listening to the judges’ feedback on selected images, I have learned more about what makes a good photograph and what makes a sensational photograph.

If it wasn’t for my awesome camera club, Raw Photographic in Lisburn, I never would have got this far. What a bunch of awesome people. One of the best decisions I ever made was joining the club. Here’s to next year!