Photography

General Instructions:  Photography (Divisions 180, 181 &182)

The purpose of this project area is to establish basic to advanced knowledge of and abilities in using photographic equipment, lighting, and composition to capture images, express feelings, and communicating ideas.  4-H members can work through the three project levels, progressing from basic to advanced photography skills and techniques.

General Information: 

• 4-H members are allowed to exhibit in only one photography level.
• 4-H members may enter up to three exhibits but no more than one exhibit per class. 
• An image may only be used on one exhibit with the exception of Portfolios which may include images entered in other classes. 
• Cameras:  Photos may be taken with any type of film or digital camera including phones, tablets and drones.
• Photos must be shot by the 4-H member during the current project year with the exception of Portfolios which may include images captured and/or exhibited in previous years.
• Securely attach photos, mats, backing, and data tags. Exhibits that are poorly attached may be disqualified.  Do not use photo corners, borders, or place coverings over the exhibits.
• Portfolios: All portfolios must include the following information:
  1. one-page max bio
  2. table of contents
  3. year each photo was taken
  4. title for each image
  5. device make and model used to capture each image
  6. reflections for each photo.  When writing reflections, youth should focus on what new photography techniques or skills they were practicing when they took the photo, what makes the image successful, and what could have been done to improve the image.

Portfolios may be presented in either print or digital formats:

1. Printed portfolios should be presented in an three-ring binder that is 8.5 inches x 11 inches or similar book format. Recommended photo size is 8 inches x 10 inches.  Matting is not necessary.
2. Digital portfolios may be presented online and must be exhibited along with a single 8.5 inch x 11 inch flyer.  Flyers must include a link, URL, or QR code that takes users (judges and fairgoers) to their online portfolio.

• Display Exhibits:  Display exhibits are accepted in Level 1 and Level 2.  Displays consist of three 4 inch x 6 inch photos mounted on a single horizontal 11 inch x 14 inch black or white poster or mat board.  Incorrect sizes will not be accepted.  NO foam board backing should be used.  Each photo in the display must be numbered using a pencil.  Numbers should be readable but not distract from the overall display.  No titles, captions or stick-on numbers will be allowed in display classes.  Photos may be mounted vertically or horizontally.  Appropriate Data Tags are required (see rule regarding Data Tags).
• Print Exhibits:  All print exhibits must be 8 inch x 10 inch prints mounted in 11 inch x 14 inch (outside size) cut matting with a sandwich mat board backing.  Incorrect sizes will not be accepted.  No foam board should be used for matting or backing.  Mat openings may be rectangular or oval. Photos may be horizontal or vertical. No frames are allowed. Appropriate unit data tags are required (see rule regarding Data Tags).
• Entry Tags:  Entry tags should be securely attached to the upper right-hand corner of the exhibit.
• Data Tags:  Data Tags are required on all print and display exhibits.  Data tags are not required for portfolios.  Each exhibit must have the appropriate number and level of data tags as outlined below.  Data tags should be securely attached to the back of the exhibit.  Current data tags and a help sheet are available at: https://go.unl.edu/ne4h-photography
• Level 1 Prints—All Level 1 prints must have a Level 1 Data Tag.
• Level 1 Picture Displays— Each photo of the display must include a separate Level 1 Data Tag.  Data Tags should be numbered with the corresponding photo’s number.
• Level 2 Prints—All Level 2 prints must have a Level 2 Data Tag.
• Level 2 Displays—Each photo of the display must include a separate Level 2 Data Tag.  Data Tags should be numbered with the corresponding photo’s number.
• Level 3 Prints—All Level 3 prints must have a Level 3 Data Tag.