My view of the role of a camera club judge: In the context of a camera club competition, I view my role as a judge is to educate and encourage amateur photographers as they pursue their craft. When I select the "winning" images, I need to explain my rationale as to why the "winners" were selected over the other images. I should also offer real reasons for not selecting the other images as well as suggestions for improving these images and encouragement to continue efforts to improve and to compete. I need to do this in a fair and reasonable manner, articulate clearly, concisely and finish the process in a reasonable time.

The criteria I use as a camera club judge include craftsmanship (focus, depth of field, exposure, presentation, technique, etc); composition (visual design elements, use of the picture space, pleasing to the eye and mind, etc.) and creativity (did the photographer bring a new or different view of a familiar subject, was there some creative thought & effort to create the image, does the creative element improve the image, etc). Does the photograph create an emotional response in me and would it likely do the same to others.

To do a good job as a judge, I need to understand why I like or don't like an image and be able to articulate my rationale to the audience in a way that is both credible and helpful.