Photography

GENERAL RULES

Southern Plains Extension Unit County Fairs

ALL DEADLINES WILL BE ENFORCED.

      The shows and events of the Nuckolls & Thayer County Fairs will be under the direction of the designated Extension staff and superintendents. The Extension staff and superintendents will make all on-the-spot decisions necessary for the operation of the shows. In case of a complaint or a disagreement with the show, the exhibitor should discuss it with the Extension staff and the superintendent within one hour after the show.  If an agreement cannot be reached, then the exhibitor and/or the Extension staff and superintendent should request a grievance committee meeting. Grievance must be submitted in writing. The grievance committee will consist of two 4‑H Council members, two Fairboard members and one neutral superintendent. The decision reached by this committee is final. 

Rules: 

1. Eligibility Requirements- Competition in the county 4‑H Fair is open to youth who are enrolled in Nuckolls or Thayer County 4‑H projects in which he/she is exhibiting. The youth must be 8 years old on January 1 of the current calendar year and under the age of 19 years of age on January 1 of the current calendar year. CloverKid members are 5-7 years old on January 1 of the current calendar year.

2.  Pre-Entry- Pre-entries are required for ALL fair exhibits.

PRE-ENTRY DEADLINES:

Nuckolls – Paper Entries Only – July 11^th - 4:00 PM

Thayer – Online Entries Only- July 17^{th –} Midnight 

        Absolutely NO late entries accepted!

*Subject to the 4‑H Council policy committee.

3. Number of Entries Allowed.

    Nuckolls County ONLY- Unlimited entries per class numbermay be made per exhibitor with the exception of a limit of two entries per class in Horticulture. 

    Thayer County ONLY- Limit of two entries per class.

    See General Animal Rules for livestock entries.

4. Entry Tags- Exhibits other than livestock contest must have entry tags attached to the exhibit at the time of entry. Tags are printed through your local Extension office.

5. Exhibits Released-See fair schedule. All fair exhibits are expected to be at the fair during scheduled times. Premium and support/booster payments will be forfeited for early removal of show animals with the exception of animals released for the animal’s welfare by written approval from a veterinarian or for legitimate reason with written approval from the species’ superintendent and a representative of the 4‑H council livestock committee. In case of emergencies, contact the office staff. The Extension staff is not responsible for items left at the fairgrounds after scheduled times.

6. Exhibit Space- Space will be assigned by the department superintendent(s). All possible care will be used to prevent loss or injury to articles or animals exhibited, but fair management will in no way be responsible should loss or injury occur. 

7. Disclaimer of Responsibility- All persons participating in the Thayer or Nuckolls County Fairs, either as exhibitors or as spectators, agree to make no claim against said Thayer or Nuckolls County Fair Association/Board, its officers, employees, volunteers, or any other exhibitors for any loss or damage to persons or property in connection with the activities of the Thayer or Nuckolls County Fair and said participants agree to hold said Association and persons harmless from any such claims. Individuals will be held personally responsible for his or her actions and the Fair Association will not be accountable or responsible for any injury. Exhibitors are responsible for the health of their animals.

8. Ribbons & Premiums Awarded- All exhibits will be divided into groups according to merit. 

Purple…………… Excellent             Blue……………………...…Good

Red……………….Fair                     White………Needs Improvement          Rainbow……..Non-Competition

Equal exhibits will be given ribbons of the same color in each class. Only worthy exhibits will be awarded ribbons and/or premium money. Trophies/banners/medals will only be awarded to purple & blue-ribbon exhibits. NO red or white ribbon entries will earn trophies. Unused trophies will be recycled.  In case there are insufficient funds to pay premiums in full, they will be prorated and paid accordingly. 

9. State Fair Eligibility-An exhibitor must be a 4‑H member enrolled in the county which she/he represents and must be 8 years old by January 1, with the exception of program specific age requirements for Shooting Sports and First Lego League. 

10. State Fair Exhibits- The Extension staff deliver many exhibits to the State Fair as a courtesy to exhibitors. However, exhibitors may be asked to arrange transportation of some articles that are large or heavy.

11.  State Fair Rules will apply when County Fair Rules are not adequate.  In case the general rules conflict with department rules, the department rules govern.                      

12. Interview Judging- Clothing Judging- See interview information involving Clothing and Fashion included with the Clothing & Fashion show rules. Static Exhibit-Interview judging is encouraged but not required for all other static exhibits. 4‑Hers can interview once per project for a total of 5 interviews. Sign up for interview judging will occur at exhibit check in, in each of the project areas. Interviews will be scheduled according to the project and class. If the 4‑Her can’t make a certain time, we will try to work with them, but we cannot guarantee that they will get to interview with all the projects they want.   

13. Exhibits entered by 4‑H members with special needs will be marked for the judge’s information only. Families will provide this information.

14. Identification- In addition to entry tag, a label with the exhibitor’s name, item’s department, division, and class should be attached to each separate piece of the exhibit.

15. Scoresheets- Scoresheets used for classes in divisions are listed by the corresponding division or class. PLEASE NOTE: County Fair scoresheets are denoted with CF numbers whereas State Fair scoresheets are denoted with SF numbers. Many county classes will use state fair scoresheets. For example: Heritage scoresheets begin with letters SF therefore will be found on the scoresheet website listed above. If any entire division uses the same scoresheet, the scoresheet number will be listed under the division title.

16.* Classes- All classes with a star (*) after the class number are not eligible for state fair competition.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Premium Code: STATIC ITEMS

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 feeling, and communicating ideas. 4-H members can work through the three project levels, progressing from basic to advanced photography skills and techniques.

General Photography Level 2 and Level 3 Rules. (These rules apply to Level 1 Photography also unless stated differently under Level1 guidelines.)

Exhibits not following these rules will be lowered a ribbon.

1.  4-H members are allowed entries in only one photography level.

2.  An image may only be used on one exhibit with the exception of Portfolios which may include images entered in other classes.

3.  Cameras- Photos may be taken with any type of film or digital camera, including phones, tablets, and drones.

4.  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.

5.  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.

6.  Portfolios- All portfolios must include the following information: 1) 1-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, and 6) reflections for each photo. When writing reflections, 4-H members should focus on what new photography techniques or skills they were practicing when they took the photos, 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:

A.  Printed portfolio should be presented in a three-ring binder that is 8.5” x 11” or similar book format.  Recommended photo size is 8” x 10”.  Matting is not necessary.

B.  Digital portfolios may be presented online and must be exhibited along with a single 8.5” x 11” flyer.  Flyers must include a link, URL or QR code that takes users (judges and fairgoers) to their online portfolio. 

7. Display Exhibit- display exhibits are accepted in Level 2 Classes. Displays consist of three 4” X 6” photos mounted on a single horizontal 11 X 14 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. Photos may be mounted vertically or horizontally. Appropriate Data Tags are required. See rule regarding Data Tags.

8.  Print Exhibits- Print exhibits must be 8” X 10” prints mounted in 11” X 14” (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. Mats can be any color for Print Exhibits.

9. Entry Tags- Entry tags should be securely attached to the upper right-hand corner of the exhibit.

10. 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. Data tags should be securely attached to the back of the exhibit. 

a.  Level 2 Prints- All Level 2 prints must have a Level 2 Data Tag.

b.  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.

c.  Level 3 Prints: All Level 3 prints must have a Level 3 Data Tag.

11. Data Tags, data tag instructions, and photo mounting/matting       instructions may be found on the Southern Plains webpage.

Rules: Display exhibits are encouraged for Level 1 exhibitors. Displays consist of three 4” x 6” photos mounted on a single horizontal 11x14 black or white poster or mat board. No foam core backing board is allowed. Each photo in the display must be numbered using a pencil. Numbers should be readable but not distracting from the overall display. No titles, captions, or stick-on numbers are allowed. Photos may be mounted vertically or horizontally. Data tags are required for each photo in the display. Use numbers to identify which photo each data tag corresponds with. Get to know your camera; Practice keeping camera steady and level; practice taking photos; notice natural light and shadows and their potential in photography; practice using natural light from several different directions; practice using flash for fill; practice solving redeye problems; evaluate background, middle-ground, and foreground when taking photos; practice filling the frame with the subject; practice eliminative background clutter in photos; practice using different viewpoints and perspectives in photos; compose creative, unusual photos; compose variety of selfies, take photos of people, places and things; sequence photos to tell a story; create black and white photos; evaluate photos using critical thinking.

Photography Basics- Level 1 Scoresheets- SF87 or SF88

Dept B  Division 180

Classes

1*   Fun with Shadows Display or Print- Photos should capture interesting or creative use of shadows.  (Activity 4). 

2*   Get in Close Display or Print- Photo should capture a close-up view of the subject or object.  (Activity 8).

3*   Bird’s or Bug’s Eye View Display or Print- Photo should capture an interesting viewpoint of a subject, either from above (bird’s eye view) or below (bug’s eye view).

4*   Tricks & Magic Display- Photos should capture visual trickery or magic. Trick photography requires creative compositions of objects in space and are intended to trick the person viewing the photo.  For example, if someone is standing in front of a flowerpot, the pot might not be visible in the image, making it look as if the flowers are growing out of the person’s head.  (Activity 11). 

5*   People, Places or Pets with Personality Display or Print- Photos should have a strong focal point, which could be people, places, or pets. Photos should capture the subject’s personality or character.  Photos may be either posed or un-posed.  (Activity 13).

6*   Black and White Display or Print- Photos should create interest without the use of color. Photos should show strong contrast and/or textures. Photos may be captured in black and white or captured in color and edited to black and white.  (Activity 15).

7*   Challenging Photo Exhibit: Telling a Story Display- Exhibit will include three photos which tell a story without words. Photos may show something being created, destroyed, consumed, moving, or growing. Photos should capture the beginning, middle, and the end of a single story, project, or event. The display will consist of three 4X6 photos mounted on a single 11x14 black or white poster or mat board.  Each photo in the display must be numbered using a pencil. Numbers should be readable but not distracting from the overall display. No titles, captions, or stick-on numbers are allowed. Photos may be mounted vertically or horizontally. Data tags are required for each 

photo in the display (Activity 14).

Next Level Photography – Level 2

Level 2 photographers should be utilizing all the skills and techniques they have developed thus far in their photography careers, especially the topic covered in Book 1 Photography Basics and Book 2 Next Level Photography.

Dept B  Division 181 

Classes

10  Level 2 Portfolio- Scoresheet SF88- Level 2 portfolios should represent the photographer’s best work and must include five-seven different images from the 4-H member’s photography career. At least two images must have been taken during the current year. The remaining images may have been taken at any time during the member’s 4-H experience and may have been previously exhibited. Portfolios may include photos which are exhibited in other Level 2 classes during the same year. Portfolios must include: 1) 1-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, and 6) reflections for each image. When writing reflections, youth should focus on what new photography techniques they were practicing when they took the photo, what makes the image successful, and what could have been done to improve the image. 

20  Creative Techniques & Lighting Display or Print- Scoresheet SF87- Photos should capture a creative use of lighting, such as diffused lighting, back-lighting, hard lighting, reflections, or another lighting technique covered in Book 2 Next Level Photography. (Activity 3, 4, 5).

30  Creative Composition Display or Print- Scoresheet SF87- Photos should capture a creative composition using the Rule of Thirds, Golden Triangle, Golden Rectangle, or another composition technique covered in Book 2 Next Level Photography. (Activity 6, 7, 8, 9).

40  Abstract Photography Display or Print- Scoresheet SF87- Photos should be abstract or capture a small piece of a larger subject.  Abstract photos may not look like anything in particular but should be able to capture a viewer’s attention.  (Activity 11).

50  Candid Photography Display or Print- Scoresheet SF87- Candid photos should capture a special moment or meaningful interaction.  Photos should be un-posed.  (Activity 10).

60  Expression Through Color Display or Print- Scoresheet- SF87- Photos should capture a creative use of color or a color scheme, such as complimentary, contrasting, monochromatic, warm, cool, primary, secondary, or tertiary. (Activity 13).

70  Black & White Display or Print- Scoresheet SF87- A photo should be a black and white photograph that demonstrates strong use of composition, lighting, and contrast Photos may be taken with any camera type (digital or film) but must be printed in black and white.

80  Creative and Experimental Photography Exhibit Print- Scoresheet SF86- Using original photos a 4-H member has captured, create an exhibit in black and white or color demonstrating the use of creative or experimental technology or techniques. Alterations to the exhibit must be apparent. Examples of methods to use may include using artificial intelligence or software tools to edit or replace the original pixels of the image. Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used when creating this exhibit, with adult care-giver permission. Any artificial intelligence work must be referenced. The 4-H member’s original work must be the majority of exhibit. Using photos and other work found online is not acceptable. Must include a 4 inch x 6 inch copy of each original images on the back of the matted exhibit, describe how the image(s) were altered and the equipment or software used.

Mastering Photography- Level 3

Level 3 photographers should be exploring and experimenting with advanced techniques. This may include but does not necessarily require using an SLR camera, manual adjustments, or other advanced equipment. Level 3 photographers should be utilizing all the skills and techniques they have developed throughout their photography career, especially topics covered in Book 1 Photography Basics Book 2 Next Level Photography and Book 3 Mastering Photography.

Dept B Division 182 

Classes

10  Level 3 Portfolio- Scoresheet SF88- Level 3 portfolios should represent the photographer's best work. Level 3 portfolios must include 9 to11 images from the 4-H member's photography career. At least 3 images should be from the current year. The remaining images may have been taken at any time during the member's 4-H experience and may have been previously exhibited. Portfolios may include photos which are exhibited in other Level 3 classes during the same year. Portfolios must include: 1) 1-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, and 6) reflections for each image. When writing reflections, 4-H members 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.

20  Advanced Techniques & Lighting Print– Scoresheet SF89- Photos should show an experimentation or exploration of advanced lighting, such as low-light or silhouette photography or another advance photography technique, such as astrophotography, underwater photography, or infrared photography. (Activity 3, 4, 5 or 12)

30  Advanced Composition Print- Scoresheet SF89- Photos should show advanced compositions, such as using diagonal, horizontal, or vertical lines or repeating shapes to frame a subject or lead the viewer’s eye through a scene; breaking the rule of thirds to compose a discordant image; or another advanced composition technique covered in Book 3 Mastering Photography (Activity 6, 7)

40  Portrait Print- Scoresheet SF89- A great portrait captures not only a person's physical image, but also something of the person's character or personality. Photos may be either formal or informal but must be of one or more human subjects. (Activity 9)

50  Still Life Print- Scoresheet SF89- Photos should capture non-moving objects that have been arranged in an interesting way. Photos should demonstrate advanced control over lighting and composition. (Activity 8) 

60  Freeze/Blur the Moment Print– Scoresheet SF89- Photos capture a subject in motion. Photographers should adjust shutter speed to either freeze or blur the moment. (Activity 11)

70 Black & White Photography Print: (SF89): Photo demonstrates advanced black and white photograph with strong technical ability and creative expression. Photo demonstrates intentional use of contrast, lighting, and composition to create visual impact. Advanced editing is allowed as appropriate for black and white imagery.

80 Creative and Experimental Photography Exhibit Print (SF86): Using original photos a 4-H member has captured, create an exhibit in black and white or color demonstrating the use of creative or experimental technology or techniques. Alterations to the exhibit must be apparent and advanced techniques used. Examples of methods to use may include using artificial intelligence or software tools to edit or replace the original pixels of the image or other advanced techniques.

      Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used when creating this exhibit, with adult care-giver permission. Any artificial intelligence work must be referenced. The 4-H member’s original work must be the majority of exhibit. Using photos and other work found online is not acceptable. Must include a 4 inch x 6 inch copy of each original images on the back of the matted exhibit, describe how the image(s) were altered and the equipment or software used.