AOL Community Photo Challenge

Our New Community Winner's Gallery

2008-10-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

I started another blog to go along with our challenge blog, like a sub-gallery blog.
I posted all winner's photos from AOL Challenges & will post furture winners from Bloggers.
Please check it out & subscribe..Ü
http://bloggerscommunityphotogallery.blogspot.com/

Blogger-Feedblitz Alerts

2008-10-03T16:45:00.000-07:00

The Alerts on Bloggers using feedblitzs service does not work like AOL alerts.
You will get one email in the early morning hours with all your subscriptions(alerts to all the journals you subscribed to)
I post the challenge today, so you probably will get an email tomorrow morning. If you don't, you might not have confirmed the subscription, look for a confirmation e-mail. & click on link.

If you would like to change when you get the e-mails

First sign on feedblitz. You will choose the Journals you want sent to you hourly.
or every 4 hrs & so on. You will have to do this with each journal or just have a few sent hourly & the rest once a day, in a single email.
then click on link,
Click Here: Check out "FeedBlitz: Subscription Center"
click on delivery service
FeedBlitz: Subscription Delivery Schedule

pick your preference, then click on
UPDATE SCHEDULE

FIRST BLOGGER CHALLENGE ALERT!

2008-10-03T10:53:00.000-07:00

WE POSTED OUR FIRST BLOGGER PHOTO CHALLENGE!!!
Must go here to see...Ü
http://communityphotochallenge.blogspot.com/
If you haven't already subscribed, remember to do it.
I will continue to post alerts here till the end of the month.
Come join in the challenge~

2008-10-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

I was able to add a SUBSCRIBE feature to our new Challenge Blog, so go here; http://communityphotochallenge.blogspot.com/
top right you will see a subscribe feature, just add your e-mail address.
Do it today so when I post the challenge tomorrow, we will see if it works. If it does, just let me know in the comments section of the new blog.
Thanks~

OUR NEW HOME

2008-10-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

Please check out & sign up for our Followers & Subscriptions to Our New HOME
http://communityphotochallenge.blogspot.com/
I plan on working on this today, it is not done. Just wanted you all to have our new link.
Our new photo challenge will be posted on Friday at our new home..Ü.
I will add an alert here just to make sure everyone joins in. Thanks~

IMPORTANT NOTICE for future Challenges

2008-09-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT
We will be temporarily moving our Photo Challenge to
my Blogspot Journal. Please add your email address to the feedblitz,
where it says to subscribe. You will see it on the right, just scroll down. Also REMEMBER to confirm your subscription, you will probably get an email to confirm.
Click here http://photographsmemoriestoo.blogspot.com/

This explains why everything on AOL is not working correctly.
We will change the name of the challenge.
...like
Jland's Community Photo Challenge. OR Our Community Photo Challenge.
You may email me with your suggestions on a new name or leave your suggestions in the comment section.

Next challenge will be posted on BLOGSPOT
If you don't have a blogspot journal, it's easy to start one.
Go here, it's free
http://www.blogger.com/create-blog.g
You do not have to use this blogsite, you can find another & still
participate with our challenge, Blogger, blogspot is free & easy to use.

Tags: Challenge, photo

AOL Community Photo Challenge-September WINNER!!

2008-09-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

Clyde from OldTownePhotos is our September winner!
Congratulations to Clyde!

Our Next Challenge will be posted on Friday October 3rd.

Tags: Blogplugs, photo challenge winner, september

AOL Community Photo Challenge-September POLL

2008-09-26T03:33:00.000-07:00

Here are the top select for our September Challenge~

#1

#2

#3

Remember to vote on the best image that represents September, consider the 1.Composition
2. Impact
3.The color, sharpness, contrast...

Photo Challenge
( surveys)

Something a Little Different for This Page

2008-09-23T12:20:00.000-07:00

Secondary to the honor of acting as a judge for the AOL Community Photo Challenge, I also serve as the President of my local photographic society: www.clevelandphoto.org As such, I encounter photographers of all shapes and sizes - some skilled and professional, others still tentatively exploring the mysteries and mastery of capturing light in a box.

Many of them have fallen prey to the siren song of the manufacturers and absolutely must possess the latest, greatest, newest, highest megapixel camera, the longest lens, the most powerful flash and a tripod built to withstand a nuclear blast – without first giving thought to the type of photographer they wish to be. And even I will admit that its tempting to upgrade when LCD screens begin to approximate widescreen TVs and you’re still trying to discern sharpness on the equivalent of a postage stamp.

But before you plunk down an amount equivalent to the gross national product of a third world country or - more important - when you can’t afford that and begin to believe that you cannot possibly be a good photographer without doing so, and begin to give up on a hobby you’ve begun to love, consider this story first:

A photographer is invited to a dinner party and brings along some examples of her work. The host views the stunning images she presents and marvels “These are wonderful photos – you must have a great camera!”. The photographer smiles and the evening progresses. After a sumptuous meal, the photographer returns to the host and exclaims “That was a marvelous dinner – you must have some great pots and pans!”

The moral of the story, of course, is that – just as the quality of a meal is reliant primarily on the skill of the cook, the quality of a photograph is primarily due to the skill of the photographer. We hold regular competitions within our club – and some of the most impactful images I have seen have been taken with point and shoot cameras.

So if you’re new to this magical hobby or have limited funds – and even if you don’t – I encourage you to take stock of yourself and what you like to shoot. Hone your skills with the equipment that you have – and upgrade only when you can honestly look yourself in the mirror and unflinchingly tell yourself that its your camera that’s keeping you from being a better photographer. Until that day, take the time to explore and enjoy – and take a backseat to no one. Happy shooting!

Rob

AOL Community Photo Challenge-September

2008-09-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

AOL Community Photo Challenge for this week is........September!
Remember to follow guidelines & leave permalink here in the comment section.
All entries need to be in by Thursday Sept 25th @ 9PM EST to be included for the selection that will be posted on Friday the 26th for the community voting.

Tags: blogplugs, september, photo challenge

Drumroll, please..............

2008-09-14T18:53:00.000-07:00

...and the winner is: Clyde from OldTownePhotos. It was a close race but not a photo finish. Congratulations Clyde!

Thanks to all who entered and congratulations to the runners up.

The polls closed at 9 p.m. tonight (Sunday, 9/14) but, if you haven't had time to visit all the participants, you can still go to the Challenge entry and visit the links in the comment section...lots of worthwhile photos to view in those journals!

Tags: blogplugs, community photo challenge, summer, poll results

Time to Vote!

2008-09-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

NOTE: Many viewers are having difficulty with the poll and cannot vote. Anyone with this problem, please email your vote to me (cmishvicki@aol.com) AND Marie (mariebm56@aol.com). Get your vote in and BE COUNTED!!!

Choose your favorite summer photo...voting ends 9 p.m. Sunday, 9/14.

Tags: blogplugs, poll, Summer, photography, challenge

AOL Community Photo Challenge-SUMMER!

2008-09-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful summer and was able to get out and capture some great images. Our Challenge this month is SUMMER!

Entries need to be in on Thursday, September 11th, to be eligible to enter the first Challenge of the new year. We will select the top images that best represents the subject "Summer"--AND comprises the best photographic qualities (composition, lighting, etc., as well as presentation). We are looking for your best or favorite shot of Summer 2008. Once we select the top images, we will post a poll and let the AOL Community decide the Best Summer Photo of 2008. The poll will be posted on Friday, September 12th, along with the top images. Voting will end on Sunday, September 14th.

We hope the members will vote for the best image and not make this a popularity contest. Please be honest in your casting your vote.

The selected images will be posted on the Challenge blog for voting.

We ask that you TRY to visit all entries when you can. I know that time can also be a "challenge."

I also want to welcome back Vicki, Rob, Martha, Gina & Kat.

Tags: Summer, Photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Photo Challenge - Part Deux

2008-09-03T09:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to all our Photo Challenge participants! We hope you all had a great summer and took LOTS of photos for sharing. Things are changing here at the Photo Challenge and we want to lay out all the ground rules for the New and Improved Challenge!

First of all...there will be no judging by a panel of judges. This year, our panel will select a number of photos to be voted on by all our readers. A poll will be created so that folks can vote for their favorites. The number of entries that are included in the poll will depend on how many entries we have...and is subject to change.

Guidelines for entering:

1. Challenges will again be bi-weekly.

2. Any photos submitted must be taken by you--the person participating. If you are IN the photo, it must be a self portrait (tripods are great for this!).

3. New Challenges will be posted on Fridays; deadline for posting is the following THURSDAY. Late entries are fine, but won't be included in the selection process.

4. The poll will be posted on the Friday after the deadline, and voting will end on Sunday night. The winner(s) will be announced on Monday.

5. ENTRIES: All entries need a link to JUST the entry, not to your entire journal. The link (PERMALINK to the entry--NOT your entire journal) should then be posted to the comments section of the Challenge announcement. This will guide folks back to view your entry and give you exposure.

6. Entries in your journal must indicate in the subject that it IS an entry for the challenge. ALL entries must be new posts--for the purpose of entering the challenge. Please don't link to an old entry in your journal...if you want to re-post a photo for an entry, make it a new entry with reference to (and a link to) the Challenge. Remember--if you are placing more than one photo in the entry, the top/first photo will be the one that counts, so place them accordingly.

7. IMPORTANT: All entrants into the challenge grant permission to the Challenge owners to post their images in the event they win. No further permissions will be requested and the only use of these images will be to display them as winners.

To all photographers...we want this challenge to be fun AND educational. Please stretch your abilities and add to your bag of tricks for your entries. From time to time, we'll write about some new (and timeworn) techniques for your enlightenment. We also welcome suggestions...so write to Marie (MarieBM56@aol.com) and Vicki (cmishvicki@aol.com) with your comments and suggestions.

Look for the first challenge SOON!

Tags: blogplugs, photography, challenge, guidelines

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN! ••ENTRIES••

2008-08-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN!

Thank you, Donna, Guido, Nancy, and Vicki for sharing your summer fun!

Remember, September we are looking for your best Summer shot of 2008!
So you still have time to get out & shoot!

Added note: There are no links this month, I did this late last night. You can go to the original entry & each comment will bring you to the blog. We also have a late entry by TJ, so check it out!
Thanks~

Tags: Summer fun entries, photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN! REMINDER

2008-08-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN!

The Challenge for August is "SUMMER FUN"

Capture a summer scene that shows fun, could be sports, BBQs, get-togethers, fun at
the beach.......Summer Fun photo challenge will be due by the 27th of AUGUST.
Keep in mind.... September we will be looking for your best summer shot. Try to
capture something new, you can use an old photo if you can not get out, but it needs
to be a new entry. Please follow the Guidelines.

Please leave your link in the original entry.
THANKS~

Tags: BLOGPLUGS, SUMMER FUN PHOTOS

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN!

2008-08-01T21:09:00.000-07:00

The Challenge for August is "SUMMER FUN"

Capture a summer scene that shows fun, could be sports, BBQs, get-togethers, fun at
the beach.......Summer Fun photo challenge will be due by the 27th of AUGUST.
Keep in mind.... September we will be looking for your best summer shot. Try to
capture something new, you can use an old photo if you can not get out, but it needs
to be a new entry. Please follow the Guidelines.

Don't forget to leave your entry link in the comment section.

Tags: blogplugs. photo challenge, summer fun

AOL Community Challenge•FIREWORKS•FUN only

2008-07-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Donna, Clyde, & Connie for participating in this challenge. Donna had lovely graphic display, & Clyde, posted many images on all his journals. Connie also had quite a few on her entry.
I also posted a few on my journal.......So check out all entries~

Tags: AOL community photo challenege, Fireworks, blogplugs, 4th of July, quotations

AOL Community Challenge-The Magic Hour- JUDGED

2008-06-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

The winner is GINA!

Thank you all, for participating. The judging category is officially over.(at least for now) I may post some ideas on our future challenges so we all can work on them through out the summer.
I will still post once or twice a month a challenge for that month's challenge. It will only be for FUN.
Thank you ROB, VICKI & BETTY for helping out.

Tags: blogplugs, magic hour winner, challenge, photo

AOL Community Challenge•FIREWORKS•FUN only

2008-06-26T17:27:00.000-07:00

FUN ONLY..Ü

The Challenge for the month of July is FIREWORKS. There is only one category-FUN. So everyone try to capture some fireworks & head back here & leave your link. You can start posting now till July 22nd. Read guidelines if you are posting for the first time.

PS... If you can, please include your secrets to capturing FIREWORKS.
For those who are more advanced, include your f-stop, shutterspeed.....
Thanks~

Here are some links Clyde has shared with me;

NYIP - Fireworks Photos - Take Brilliant Fireworks Photos with These Photograph Tips from the Pros at New Y

How To Photograph Fireworks | eHow.com

Fireworks Photography Tips - PhotographyREVIEW.com

How to Photograph Fireworks

AOL Search results for "how to photograph fireworks"

AOL Image Search results for "how to photograph fireworks"

Tags: Photo challenge, fireworks, blogplugs, july's challenge

AOL Community Challenge-The Magic Hour- FUN

2008-06-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

We had a few different entries on The Magic Hour FUN category, so this week I am only highlighting one entry.

This one is by Betty.

Clyde sent me After the Sun
Check it out~

Tags: After the Sun, Magic Hour, fun, challenge, photo, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge-The American Flag

2008-06-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

Our Flag

"I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE
TO THE FLAG
OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
AND TO THE REPUBLIC
FOR WHICH IT STANDS,
ONE NATION UNDER GOD,
INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY
AND JUSTICE FOR ALL."

Thank you everyone who contributed, including Clyde, who was unable to post his entry. AOL has not been cooperating lately.. ; (

Tags: The american flag photo challenge, blogplugs, entries

Critiques vs. Opinions...

2008-06-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

I posted this in my journal (Visions by Vicki) and Marie suggested that I repost it here for all our photographers to see...so, here goes:

I've been a member of the Monmouth Camera Club, in NJ, for 2 years and have been involved in a number of "competitions." I'm still no expert, but have observed that some judges seem to follow what they believe are iron-clad rules of photography (Rule of Thirds, Leading Lines, etc.) in some cases, but don't apply these rules consistently. This angered and confused me a bit because they were being inconsistent and that didn't seem fair. Also, as far as I knew from all that I've read, these "Rules" are actually guidelines and NOT written in stone. I just read an article by one of the premier landscape photographers in the US--Alain Briot, Arts and Facts, The difference between judgments and opinions--and something clicked. It's definitely worth a read, so I suggest you go to his website and check it out. While you're there, browse through all his writings and photographs--he's really amazing! And...let me know what you think. :)

P.S. The original article referred to in this one was written for a different website, which I also highly recommend. The original article is titled Being an Artist.

Tags: critiques, opinions, photography, artist, essays

AOL Community Challenge-The American FlagFUN

2008-06-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

Our June Photo challenge for FUN only, is The American Flag. Find a flag anywhere, on a flag post, a building, painted on something....or just the red, white & blue colors. You can even use a child's drawing as long as it has the red, white & blue colors. I want to decorate our Challenge Journal for July 4th, so I am planning to make a quilt of all entries. So the entry date will be different, it will start today & end on Monday the 23th of June. This will give you an extra weekend.
Try to make your image into a square, if you can.UPDATE: don't worry about the size, just post whatever image you have for this challenge. I see it's hard to crop/edit certain images into squares.
Post here in the comment section, all new entries. Try to follow guidelines...thanks~

Tags: American flag, june photo challenge, blogplugs

Reminder & Small change

2008-06-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

This is a reminder & a change in the due date for "The Magic Hour" entries. They were due on the 27th of this month. I am making a small change & the new due date is on the Thursday 26th.

Found Cameras & Orphan Pictures

2008-06-01T08:19:00.000-07:00

Found a website through PostSecrets called Found Cameras & Orphan Pictures
http://ifoundyourcamera.blogspot.com/
It's worth checking out if you loose your camera or your memory cards~

Tags: Found cameras, lost cameras, lost pictures

AOL Community Challenge-The Animal Within FUN ONLY!

2008-05-30T17:05:00.000-07:00

We only had a few entries this challenge, but those who did participate really did a nice job~ Check out their entries by clicking on their links in the comment section.

AOL Community Challenge-The Animal Within FUN ONLY!

2008-05-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

The Animal Within~FUN Category only

This is not just an animal image, it can be a bird, fish or insects.....Post a photo of a living thing(no plants) that represents you, a self portrait, but using a photo of an animal or living thing. Be creative...Ü
This is only for the Fun category. You have a week to enter & try to post between May 23rd through May 30th. (no old entries) Read guidelines & add your permalink, in the comments area.

Tags: Animal within, photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Photo Challenge-The Magic Hour FUN!

2008-05-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

FUN Category

The Magic hour, or Golden hour is the first & last hour of sunlight.
It'sthe 1/2 hour before the sun rises, & 1/2 after the sun rises. It's also the 1/2 hour before sunset & 1/2 hour after.
So with this challenge you will need a tripod & a timer or a remote.
You will also have a month to work on this. You can use a file photo,but I think it would be good if we can all try to get out & do thischallenge with new photos.
I plan on taking a number of photos during the magic hour to see howthe colors change. This is a personal challenge for me & I welcomeall to this challenge.
This challenge starts Today May 23 & will end June 26(updated). It will be our last JUDGED category until the fall.

More info, go here ....Magic Hour Times Two

Tags: Blogplugs, The Magic Hour Photo challenge. photography

AOL Community Challenge-The Magic Hour-JUDGED

2008-05-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

JUDGED Category

The Magic hour, or Golden hour is the first & last hour of sunlight.
It's the 1/2 hour before the sun rises, & 1/2 after the sun rises. It's also the 1/2 hour before sunset & 1/2 hour after.
So with this challenge you will need a tripod & a timer or a remote.
You will also have a month to work on this. You can use a file photo, but I think it would be good if we can all try to get out & do this challenge with new photos.
I plan on taking a number of photos during the magic hour to see how the colors change. This is a personal challenge for me & I welcome all to this challenge.
This challenge starts Today May 23 & will end June 26(Updated). It will be our last JUDGED category until the fall.

More info, go here ....Magic Hour Times Two

Tags: Blogplugs, the magic hour photo challenge, photography

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! JUDGED

2008-05-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

We had a tie in the JUDGED category & many second place winners.....so I am only going to show the 1st place winners.

Congratulations to Gina & Betty~

Gina from Gina's Space

Betty from Creativity Bits and Pieces

Tags: winners color landscapes, photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! FUN!!

2008-05-17T20:51:00.000-07:00

These are all the entries up till yesterday. I had done this last night. For the rest of the entries, check out the "FUN"comment section, below.
Thank you all for playing~

Tags: blogplugs, photo challenge, , landscapes,

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! For FUN!

2008-05-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

For FUN Category~

Spring is here & so is the color!!! So Our Challenge this week is easy.....
LANDSCAPES in COLOR! FOLLOW GUIDELINES which can be found on the sidebar, must leave permalinks,also found on sidebar. Post your NEW entry now till Friday May 16thfor Judging. If you have any questions email me or Vicki.

What is a Landscape.????......
From AOL dictionary;
1 a : a picture representing a view of natural inland scenery b : the art of depicting such scenery

From Vicki's Dictionary;

An expanse of scenery that can be seen in a single view: a desert landscape.

A picture depicting an expanse of scenery.

The branch of art dealing with the representation of natural scenery.

The aspect of the land characteristic of a particular region: a bleak New England winter landscape.

From

http://www.digicamhelp.com/learn/nature/landscape.phpDefining landscape photography
Landscape photography is difficult to define.The more landscape photography I do, the broader my definition becomes.For me, landscape photography is not so much about what is contained inthe image, but what it portrays about a place. While a landscapephotograph might be a wide-angle image of a pristine lake or an oceansunset, it might just as well be a dormant plant in a winter pond. Ifthe lake, the sunset and the dormant plant image each reveal somethingsignificant about a place, its inhabitants, or its conditions and evokean emotional response in the viewer, they qualify as landscapephotographs in my book. Grand or tiny, a landscape is not so much aboutthe subject itself, but rather about the place in which the subjectexists and the feeling the subject and place evokes.

11 Surefire Tips for Improving Your Landscape Photography

Tags: Landscapes in color, photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! JUDGING

2008-05-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

For JUDGING Category~

Spring is here & so is the color!!! So Our Challenge this week is easy.....
LANDSCAPES in COLOR! FOLLOW GUIDELINES which can be found on the sidebar, must leave permalinks, also found on sidebar. Post your NEW entry now till Friday May 16th for Judging. If you have any questions email me or Vicki.

What is a Landscape.????......
From AOL dictionary;
1 a : a picture representing a view of natural inland scenery b : the art of depicting such scenery

From Vicki's Dictionary;

An expanse of scenery that can be seen in a single view: a desert landscape.

A picture depicting an expanse of scenery.

The branch of art dealing with the representation of natural scenery.

The aspect of the land characteristic of a particular region: a bleak New England winter landscape.

From

http://www.digicamhelp.com/learn/nature/landscape.phpDefining landscape photography
Landscape photography is difficult to define. The more landscape photography I do, the broader my definition becomes. For me, landscape photography is not so much about what is contained in the image, but what it portrays about a place. While a landscape photograph might be a wide-angle image of a pristine lake or an ocean sunset, it might just as well be a dormant plant in a winter pond. If the lake, the sunset and the dormant plant image each reveal something significant about a place, its inhabitants, or its conditions and evoke an emotional response in the viewer, they qualify as landscape photographs in my book. Grand or tiny, a landscape is not so much about the subject itself, but rather about the place in which the subject exists and the feeling the subject and place evokes.

11 Surefire Tips for Improving Your Landscape Photography

Happy Mother's Day J-Land!

2008-05-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone who participated in our Tribute to Mother's Creative Challenge.

Photography & Your Legal Rights

2008-05-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

Vicki sent these links to me & suggested we post them.

The Ten Legal Commandments of Photography

http://www.kantor.com/useful/Legal-Rights-of-Photographers.pdf

Great idea Vicki! THANKS! Ü

Tags: legal rights in photography, bloglpugs

EXTRA Creative Challenge-Tribute to Mothers

2008-05-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

This Challenge is a "Tribute to Mothers" ALL mothers, one mother....any mother...Ü
Could be your sister, if she's a mother....could be your own mother, could be a portrait of yourself as a mother.
ANYTHING GOES, be creative, use whatever you want....quotes, poems.....things your mother always said..... Stories of your mother, childhood memories....
Only one category this week, "FUN"
You have now till THURSDAY, May 9th 7PM EST to post your tribute to your mom. Or any mom...... I will post them on Friday.
Come back here & leave your link.

PLEASE FOLLOW GUIDELINES Ü
USE PERMALINKS!

Tags: Mother's day tribute, challenge, photography, blogplugs

I want to apologize........

2008-05-04T07:28:00.000-07:00

I want to apologize to those who started with us & have tried to follow the guidelines, I had posted one photo that was submitted after the deadline. I realized I should not have posted it, b/c it is not fair to those who follow the guidelines.

I wanted to include about 7-8 images in the FUN category, but had problems downloading the images.

We have had many new people enter in these challenges & don't read the guidelines. For those who are new, I suggest starting out in the FUN category, it has less restrictions.

If a photo is entered & it is not within the time frame, it will NOT be included in the Judging. I will not e-mail anyone on the rules, anymore. The JUDGED category has to follow the GUIDELINES, because it is not fair to others that do follow them.

Also, we allowed one entry per person per category(this is new). If you make a mistake in posting in the same category, JUST E-MAIL ME, & let me know, I will remove the one you want. If you don't e-mail me, I will remove the second one. I will not try to figure out which one to delete. I understand we all make mistakes, so a simple e-mail would help.

I know the rules have been changing all the time, We are still trying to work things out to make it easy for everyone. I am not sure how much longer the JUDGED category will continue. It's been a lot of work & with the nicer weather coming , I will be away from my computer. This week has been difficult for me to get this challenge together.

Guidelines:

--Challenges are bi-weekly on the following schedule:

    --Topic will be announced on a Friday, end the following Friday and winners will be announced on or before the following Monday. Everyone then rests for a week before the next challenge is announced the following Friday.

***--You may still post an entry after the deadline, but it won't be eligible to win...we'd still love to see it, though!
**This goes for Judged category only. If I didn't post the winners in the FUN category, then they may be included. FUN entries can post anytime. BUT should be posted within the time frame so people will still see it. Otherwise last entries may get overlooked.
I hope that clears up any confusion....Ü

    --The winning images will be posted on the challenge journal the Monday following the deadline--for all to enjoy.

--Self-portraits must be just that--a portrait of yourself taken by yourself. If yousubmit a photo taken by someone else, it's not yours. This challenge is for YOU to showcase your best work.

--Entries - to be eligible for the challenge the following must be followed:

    --Entries in your journal must indicate in the subject that it IS an entry into the challenge. The title of your entry can read: AOL Community Photo Challenge - <challenge subject> and should contain a link to the Challenge itself.

    --The link (PERMALINK to the entry NOT your entire journal) should then be posted to the comments section of the announcement for the level you're participating in (Advanced or Beginner). This will guide folks back to view your entry and give you exposure.

    --All entries must be new ones and be posted during the challenge timeframe. Please do not post a link to an old entry--it will be removed from the comment section.

    --Presentation counts. If your image needs a border, add one. If it doesn't, don't. Just be sure any frame or border you add enhances your image and doesn't overpower the image. The presentation can win or lose a challenge, sometimes KISS works (Keep It Simple...).

--IMPORTANT--PLEASE READ!!!!! All entrants into the challenge grant permission to the Challenge owners to post their images in the event they win. No further permissions will be requested and the ONLY use of the images will be to display them in the "winner's circle."

NEW UPDATE:
If you post people on your blog, you must have permission to POST on your blog, not just have permission to take a photo. I have photos of my nieces that I have permission to take their photos but I don't have permission to post on my public journal. So be careful who & what you post.

B&W Landscape Just for fun!

2008-05-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

We had so many entries in the Challenge & it was hard to select a few. I had more that I wanted to post, but I was having problems with them loading.
So I am only posting these few. Thank you all for joining in, we have our regulars but we also had quite a few newbies!!!
Watch for our new challenge on Friday!
Here are some samples of our FUN category, to see more check out the comment area in both categories, you will see why I say it was hard choosing just a few.

MONICA

rRose Greg

Tags: blogplugs, challenge, B&W landscapes

B & W Landscape Challenge Winners

2008-05-03T21:45:00.000-07:00

Our 1st Place winner in our B & W Landscape Challenge goes to Jeannette
Congratulations Jeannette!

We had 4 people who came in 2nd Place
They are Nancy, Robin, Betty, & Gina
Congratulations!!!

Tags: Blogplugs, B&W Landscapes, photography, challenge

Clarification of Permalink Rule for Judged Entries

2008-04-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

For all who enter the Judged category of our Challenges, please note the following:

In fairness to our judges, and to the folks who want to visit the entries for the challenges without having to wade through multiple entries, any links that go to entire journals and NOT to the entry itself will be disqualified from the judging. Anyone who needs help placing a 'permalink' to their entry can find out more here: Permalink Tutorial.

Keep up the great work, folks!!! We think you're all winners!

Tags: blogplugs, rules, judged, challenge, photography

AOL Community Challenge•Landscapes in Black & White•JUDGED

2008-04-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

JUDGED Category

Take a Landscape photo in B & W or transform a photo into B & W.
You can sepia tone the image, frame it, but keep in mind when framing, not to take
away from the image.

First photo in the entry is what will be judged in our JUDGEDCategory. You may enter in both categories, but only once in each. They also must be different photos, not the same image.
All entries need to be posted by Friday, May 2nd, 7 PM EST.

Please follow our guidelines & leave a link back to our challengejournal. Also, leave your permalink, which the instructions are on thesidebar.

Helpful links to Landscape Photography, are below. Also check out Greg's journal, link on sidebar.

10 tips on Landscape Photography-

10 Really Good Landscape Photography Tips

Dead center
I have noticed a tendency among new photographers, and some older onesto center the main subject every shot. Try some different compositionsand positions. Finish the shot. Don't be in a hurry.

Simplify the photo
A lot of scenic/landscape photos are just plain busy. In an effort tocram every detail in, we lose sight of the main attraction. Emphasizethe main point and eliminate the unimportant. Less is more

16 tips on Landscape Photography

Leave your Permalink for the JUDGED Category here.
Thanks~

Tags: Blogplugs, b & W photography, landscapes, challenge

AOL Community Challenge•Landscapes in Black & White•FUN

2008-04-25T05:57:00.000-07:00

FUN Category!

Take a Landscape photo in B & W or transform a photo into B & W.
You can sepia tone the image, frame it, but keep in mind when framing, not to take
away from the image.

First photo in the entry is what will be judged in our JUDGED Category. You may enter in both categories, but only once in each. They also must be different photos, not the same image.
All entries need to be posted by Friday, May 2nd, 7 PM EST.

Please follow our guidelines & leave a link back to our challenge journal. Also, leave your permalink, which the instructions are on the sidebar.

Helpful links to Landscape Photography, are below. Also check out Greg's journal, link on sidebar.

10 tips on Landscape Photography-

10 Really Good Landscape Photography Tips

Dead center
I have noticed a tendency among new photographers, and some older ones to center the main subject every shot. Try some different compositions and positions. Finish the shot. Don't be in a hurry.

Simplify the photo
A lot of scenic/landscape photos are just plain busy. In an effort to cram every detail in, we lose sight of the main attraction. Emphasize the main point and eliminate the unimportant. Less is more

16 tips on Landscape Photography

Leave your link here for the FUN category. Thanks~

Tags: Blogplugs, Landscapes, B & W Photography, challenge

Please Vote for Next Challenge Theme...Ü

2008-04-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

We're going to take a vote on the next challenge & see what everyone is up to doing.
We have many ideas, but with the crazy weather we are holding off on a few subjects
till the nicer weather.
Tell me what you think on this & remember there will be 2 categories, JUDGED &
FUN for this one.

We also have some great ideas for other challenges, but some will take time & if you
want to start collecting photos for these challenges, go for it.
1. A Photo Story, which will consist of 3-5 photos telling a story.
2. Magic/Golden hour, suggested by Betty. This is the first hour of light in the
morning and last hour of light at Twilight. Also I would like to add extra photos of
the same scene as it changes & at different times of the day. THIS one will take
time. So I just wanted you to be aware of this challenge.

Also, if there are people who still want some creative challenges in between, let me
know. The last Creative Challenge was posted on the sidebar, so you can still add
on to that one. It's a great challenge for sharing your talents with others. I also want
to do a B&W Portrait subject but I don't like the idea of posting people without their
permission, especially children. So maybe if you have any ideas on that one, let me
know.
Please email me any new ideas, if any for future challenges, that would be easy for
everyone. During the summer months, we might just switch to FUN entries b/c of
vacations.

Tags: POLL, New challenges, ideas, vote, blogplugs

AOL Community Photo Challenge-POSTCARDS!

2008-04-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

Post Cards from around the world!
Thank you everyone who participated, I couldn't choose just one, they were all great & all included in this entry, except one which I had problems opening the file. You can visit everyone's entry, the links are in the FUN & JUDGED comment area.

this was the one I was having problems with posting. Thanks Connie!
I used your photobucket URL & was able to post.

Tags: postcards from around the world, photo challenge, postcards, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge•Postcard Winner

2008-04-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Robin From The Yellow Brick Road
She is our first Place Winner.

Tags: Winner, Postcard Photo Challenge, Blogplugs

AOL Community Photo Challenge-POSTCARDS• ANYTHING GOES! JUDGED

2008-04-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

AOL Community Photo Challenge-POSTCARDS• ANYTHING GOES! JUDGED

Create your own post card, Front & Back, or you may use my templatefor the back of your postcard. But you will have to address it &create your own greeting. Your front card will be your own photo . It must be posted at the top of the entry, the template/ postcard willbe posted on the bottom, under the Photo you are submitting in thechallenge. You can be creative, funny, or serious.....Shoot anythingyou want, that you think would be good for a postcard. Address it to whoever, & add your own greeting.
If you don't have an editing program & are not able to use the template, then add your greeting under the image.
Follow Guidelines & remember to enter in one of the 2 categories, FUN or JUDGE
Post on here before 7PM EST Friday April 18th

This will be our first POSTCARD challenge, but will have more in thefuture, so if you snag the template, hold on to it for futurechallenges.

UPDATE: to clear up any confusion, you may enter in both categories during our FUN & JUDGED tryout. You can only submit one entry per category & they must be different. Please indicate the category & submit it in the correct category in the comment section. If you submit it twice in the one category I will delete the second one. Again, this is only a tryout, let see how this works out.

Remember, if you do submit twice, you must have 2 separate entries on your journal. Again, I am sorry about the confusion, just trying to please everyone & make this a successful challenge. I welcome all feedback.
Thanks ~
Marie

Tags: Postcard, photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge-POSTCARDS•Anything goes! FUN

2008-04-11T07:06:00.000-07:00

AOL Community Photo Challenge-POSTCARDS• ANYTHING GOES! FUN

Create your own post card, Front & Back, or you may use my template for the back of your postcard. But you will have to address it & create your own greeting. Your front card will be your own photo . It must be posted at the top of the entry, the template/ postcard will be posted on the bottom, under the Photo you are submitting in the challenge. You can be creative, funny, or serious.....Shoot anything you want, that you think would be good for a postcard. Address it to whoever, & add your own greeting.
If you don't have an editing program & are not able to use the template, then add your greeting under the image.
Follow Guidelines & remember to enter in one of the 2 categories, FUN or JUDGE
Post on here before 7PM EST Friday April 18th

This will be our first POSTCARD challenge, but will have more in the future, so if you snag the template, hold on to it for future challenges.

Postcard Template

Tags: POSTCARD, Photo challenge, blogplugs

AOL Community Challenge-AGED•WINNERS•

2008-04-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

This challenge has been one of the most difficult to judge, most of the entries came in with very close scores.
Usually we don't post 3 winners, but because the scores were close, I decided to post the top 3 photos in this challenge.

Congratulations to the winners!

ROB:
Its so nice to see so many wonderful entries. This was a tough group because there were a lot of interesting images and the scores were close on many of them - which makes it all the more fun to judge! If this is indicative of the response we'll get to the new format, I'm very pleased - and its also nice to see some new 'faces' in the mix!

Betty:
It was not easy, I have to say I really had a very hard time...Thanks for asking me. I hope I did a decent job.

Thank you Betty, you did a great job!
AND thank you Rob, for your continued support in our challenge!

Vicki is our First Place Winner

Vicki is one of our Judges that is on vacation & did not judge in this Challenge, so she was eligible for the challenge.

Dan, comes in 2nd Place

Gina is our 3rd Place Winner

Tags: Winners, aged, photo, challenge, blogplugs

Highlightling the Fun Challenge

2008-04-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

We had many wonderful images in the fun category, so I post 3 that really stand out
even though I would have like to post more. I am trying different ways to upload
these photos, I may post more or less in the future, all depends on the amount of time
I have. Please, if you already haven't, visit all of the entries in both categories. We
had a nice amount of beautiful images & also a few newbies to our challenge. Thank you all for participating!

MiChelle-
http://journals.aol.com/inafrnz247/Reflections/entries/2008/03/30/untitled/1993

Donna
http://journals.aol.com/nightmaremom/Thisandthatandhockey/entries/2008/03/29/-aol-community-photo-challengeaged-fun-/2890

Greg
http://journals.aol.com/radar446/PhotoTrek/entries/2008/03/30/aol-community-photo-challenge-aged/2068

Tags: Fun Challenge, blogplugs, photos, aged

Viewing graphics & banners on this page

2008-04-02T11:19:00.000-07:00

Viewing my graphics & banners

I need to know how other's view my journal. All my photos & graphics I size at 10
inches across, which includes the banners I use on here. If this is
messing up your AOL page/windows while viewing this page, let me
know. I will then reduce all my graphics including My PHOTOGRAPHS & MEMORIES Journal.

I use a MAC computer(I also use Firefox), so what I see is different then what you see. My
sidebar is narrow, so I need graphics that fit @ 1.5 inches, no larger. I
view everyone sidebar with cut off images. So if there is a problem,
please leave a comment, then I will adjust. Thanks~

Critiquing ourselves....

2008-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

Kat @ In My Dreams I Can Fly critiques her own image.....check it out, we can all learn from our own & other's mistakes.

AOL Community Photo Challenge•AGED-JUDGED

2008-03-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

This week's challenge is AGED. So find something that shows age or take an image & make it vintage or aged.

Post your challenge entry on your blog, come back here & leave your link in the comment area on either the FUN or JUDGED category.

Please follow the basic guidelines & keep in mind the minor change.

DEADLINE IS FRIDAY, April 4th!

Tags: photography, aged, photos, blogplugs, challenge, Judged

AOL Community Photo Challenge•AGED-FUN

2008-03-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

Tags: Blogplugs, AGED, challenge, photos, photography, fun

Small Change

2008-03-28T07:12:00.000-07:00

For the moment we will continue with 2 categories. One for Fun & one for Judging.
The Judges will continue to be Rob, Vicki & myself. Those who would like their scores & comments, please just e-mail me at the end of the challenge & I will send you just your scores.
The Judging category is just for those who really want to improve their images & are looking for a little competition. I know there are some that don't like the voting/judging part, so we will have a category just for Fun. I will pick one image in that category that represents the subject, along with the impact, technical & composition elements in that "FUN" group for that challenge. Again, if people don't want that, let me know.
I am trying to keep this a community effort without making it uncomfortable for some.
If anyone wants to share their thoughts, e-mail me.

UPDATE: You may enter in both categories, one for fun & one for Judging, but for the future, try to add different images for each category, if you want to submit to both...thanks~Ü

•Creative Challenge EXTRA•

2008-03-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

At the end of February I mentioned a Creative Challenge
which I wanted everyone to find & learn a new technique. I wanted everyone to find something new to them & learn it.....post it on your journal & share in a tutorial or video tutorial on how you achieved the results.
Mine was Photo Animation
posted on my Photographs & Memories journal.

You will need a photo editing program, such as Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Picasa(is free, Google it), PSP.......whatever you have. TRY TO KEEP IT PHOTOGRAPHIC.

I want this to be an exploring new horizons project.
So pick a photo, find ANOTHER effect or technique you would like to learn. Try it, learn it & do it. Once you have the final project done, make a tutorial on it & explain step by step how you were able to do this. Provide as much info on it as you can so if someone would like to try it, they can....This is also a sharing project...Ü

Cause....Sharing is caring.....Ü

POST IT HERE!!!! Ü (in the comment section)

UPDATE: I will keep the entry open, so when you have the time to do this challenge, you can add when ever you want. I still think this IS a good challenge & will help others discover new techniques. This ENTRY will be posted on the sidebar, so it will be easy to access for updates & entries. Youtube has many tuts on any program that is out there(do a search), so you can choose to add a Youtube tutorial, if that is easier.

Tags: creative challenge, photography, blogplugs, tutorials, new techniques

WEARING OF THE GREEN - WINNER/ADVANCED CATEGORY

2008-03-22T18:58:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Rob and Marie for their votes this time. Rob commented that, even with less entries, the decisions have gotten harder--and I totally agree with him! There's a lot of talent in this community and I hope to see many more wonderful images from our photographers, even without making it a competition. Keep up the GREAT work all.

That said, I think most would agree that this week's winner in the advanced category is really deserving of the honor:

Kat from In My Dreams I Can Fly...

Tags: blogplugs, photography, challenge, wearing of the green, advanced

WEARING OF THE GREEN - WINNERS/BEGINNER CATEGORY

2008-03-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our judges this week--Kat, Connie and Martha--it was a tough choice for them!

Congratulations to all our winners, and to every photographer who went out hunting for some 'green' to post for this challenge...I know it wasn't always easy!

First place went to Nancy from Nancyluvspix:

THEN...there was a 3-way tie for 2nd place...and those 2nd place winners are:

Veronica from My Paper Cuts:

Michelle from (((Reflections))):

Julie from My Photo Journey:

Tags: blogplugs, photography, challenge, wearing of the green

REMINDER

2008-03-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

*REMINDER*
Next week I will post the Creative Challenge. I hope everyone has been exploring new techniques & are prepared to share?! Ü If not, try to find something & come back here to share it. Youtube.com has great tutorials on almost every photo software program. Do a search & find something to do & share. Thanks~

Tags: Creative challenge, blogplugs, photo, youtube, tutorials

Changes....Ch ch ch changes

2008-03-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

Vicki & I have decided to make a few changes on this Community Photo Challenge. Some people do not like the idea of judging & voting on images that are entered.
I wanted this challenge to be fun & also a learning/sharing experience for everyone, I wanted to get more people involved in photography. We thought by adding a competition would make it a little more interesting. There are just 1 or 2 that are looking for that recognition where they can call themselves award winning photographers, but the majority seem to want to do it for fun. I know what it is like to get an award for the first time.....or have photos displayed on a main AOL People Connection page. It's a good feeling to get some recognition. That was the main reason for the competition. It became to much work to get others involved so with that said, we will eliminate the voting, for now.

I will keep it this way for the time being. If I see an interest in the competition, maybe we will continue...... & MIGHT still have 2 categories, one for competition & one for fun.....just a thought.
(I am leaning towards this idea)

But, for now......
All I ask is that everyone visit all entries during each challenge & leave comments.
I will select 1 or 2 photos at the end of the challenge. One from the Beginners & one from the Advanced. We will keep the 2 categories for now, but that may be subject to change, also.

This recent challenge will be the last week for voting.

If anyone would like to email me on their thoughts, I welcome all comments.
I am trying to keep this a community effort.

Special thanks to Rob & Vicki for everything they have done to make this challenge a success.
&...... Thank you all for participating in each challenge!! Everyone has been very kind & considerate in all our Community Challenges, & that is what is important.

Tags: Changes, blogplugs, challenge, photos

Helpful Tid-bit• Horizon Line

2008-03-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

When entering a photo, the horizon(or water) line needs to be straight. We all make this mistake, I know I do. There is a tool in Photoshop that can straighten out the horizon line. Once you correct it, all you have to do is crop it.
For those who use Photoshop, Go to tool bar, then locate the eyedropper tool(#2) right click & go down to measure tool(#3) it will bring up that tool in the tool window(#1), Then click on horizon or water line & go along the original line(even though it's crooked) Photoshop tilts the image to make the horizon line straight. Then just crop. Try it~
If you have any questions...leave a comment & I will try to address it here.

Tags: Tutorial on horizon lines, Blogplugs, Photo challenge helpful hints

CHALLENGE TOPIC CLARIFICATION - WEARING OF THE GREEN

2008-03-15T14:06:00.000-07:00

Ok...all you photographers, I guess an explanation is in order. I'd like to be sure everyone realizes that the actual subject for this challenge is GREEN. I referred to St. Patrick's Day because it might offer some subject matter readily at hand. BUT you can enter anything that has green as the main subject, or a main subject that's green...does NOT have ot be green beer. :)

Tags: challenge, explanation, clarification

AOL Community Photo Challenge - Wearing of the Green {Advanced}

2008-03-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

ADVANCED CATEGORY - WEARING OF THE GREEN

(Deadline: The evening of Friday, March 21st)

They say that on St. Patrick's Day, the whole world is Irish. Well, you don't have to be Irish to find some green in your world. Whether it's a St. Paddy's Day parade, your aunt's green scarf or spring blossoms, shoot something green this week and share it with us.

Be sure to follow the posted GUIDELINES. If you have any questions, drop me (CmishVicki) an email and I'll get back to you.

Remember, there are two categories--pick the one that's appropriate for your skill level; post your photo on your journal with a link to this one; and then post your permalink (to your entry only, not your entire journal) in the comment area here.

Judges for the Beginner's category will be the winners from the last challenge--Martha, Connie and Kat.

Have fun with this challenge--Marie will be back from her trip soon and will be running the next two challenges while I'm on my own trip to Florida for PhotoshopWorld and a visit with Micky and Minnie. :)

Tags: blogplugs, challenge, photography, green

AOL Community Photo Challenge - Wearing of the Green {Beginner}

2008-03-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

BEGINNER CATEGORY - WEARING OF THE GREEN

(Deadline: The evening of Friday, March 21st)

Be sure to follow the posted GUIDELINES. If you have any questions, drop me (CmishVicki) an email and I'll get back to you.

Judges for the Beginner's category will be the winners from the last challenge--Martha, Connie and Kat.

Tags: Blogplugs, photography, challenge, green

MARCH INTO SPRING - WINNERS OF BEGINNER CATEGORY

2008-03-08T07:53:00.000-08:00

Thanks to our judges this week--Julie, Greg, Betty and Kat--you all did a great job. I know how hard this was!

Congratulations to our winners!

First place went to Martha from Perception:

and our second place winner is Connie from ANYWAY...:

Congratulations to both of you, and to everyone who entered. As always, the fun was in viewing all of your wonderful photos!

Tags: blogplugs, photography, MarchIntoSpring, Winners, Beginners

MARCH INTO SPRING - WINNER IN ADVANCED CATEGORY

2008-03-08T07:38:00.000-08:00

Even with the tough decision Rob and I had to make this time, one entry came in as the clear winner for the Advanced entries: Kat from In My Dreams I Can Fly. Congratulations Kat, on your win and your wonderful image!

Thanks again to all who entered their wonderful images and allowed us to view them! Remember, anyone who whould like to view their scores and the comments made by Rob and me, just drop me a note and I'll send them.

Tags: blogplugs, photography, MarchIntoSpring, winner

AOL Community Photo Challenge - March into Spring {Advanced}

2008-02-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

ADVANCED CATEGORY - MARCH INTO SPRING

(Deadline: The evening of Friday, March 7th)

This week's challenge is MARCH INTO SPRING...Is spring popping up in your neighborhood? Daffodils and crocuses popping up through the snow? However spring is arriving (or did in the past, if you're still snowbound), share it with us!

Please follow the posted Guidelines. If you have any questions, please email me (Vicki - CmishVicki). Marie is on vacation (or will be soon!) and may not be able to get back to you with any answers.

As always, there are 2 categories. Pick the one you feel you belong in. Post your photo on your blog. Then, come back here and leave your permalink in the comment area. Be sure to leave the link to your entry, not your entire blog...and be sure to post in the correct category.

Again, as always, winners from the last challenge will judge the beginner category.

Tags: blogplugs, photography, challenge, spring, March

AOL Community Photo Challenge - March into Spring {Beginner}

2008-02-29T19:14:00.000-08:00

BEGINNER CATEGORY - MARCH INTO SPRING

(Deadline: The evening of Friday, March 7th)

Please follow the posted Guidelines. If you have any questions, please email me (Vicki - CmishVicki). Marie is on vacation (or will be soon!) and may not be able to get back to you with any answers.

Again, as always, winners from the last challenge will judge the beginner category.

Tags: blogplugs, photography, challenge, spring, March

Creative Challenge EXTRA•Photo Animation

2008-02-27T14:09:00.000-08:00

Creative Challenge EXTRA•Photo Animation

Creative Challenge EXTRA is going to be different this time...Ü
Notice the grin?????????

You will have a month to work on it because it will take time. You WILL NOT post yet. I will post again, in a month for all entries....
Ü

You will need a photo editing program, such as Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Picasa(is free, Google it), PSP.......whatever you have.
For some of you this could be any easy thing to do....but I don't want to make it too easy....Ü
I want this to be an exploring new horizons project.
So pick a photo, find ANOTHER effect or technique you would like to learn. Try it, learn it & do it. Once you have the final project done, make a tutorial on it & explain step by step how you were able to do this. Provide as much info on it as you can so if someone would like to try it, they can....This is also a sharing project...Ü

Cause....Sharing is caring.....Ü

My project is Photo Animation using Photoshop/ImageReady
Here is the video I found & used for my entry.
click here for video-Photographs & Memories

REMEMBER**** DO NOT POST ON HERE YET
I will do another entry in about a month, where you will post your entries. This should give you plenty of time to learn something NEW & either create a tutorial or find a video for it.

Tags: Challenge, creative, blogplugs, tutorials, photo animation, exploring

"Prize-winning Photographs"

2008-02-24T12:26:00.000-08:00

In photography we are all beginners....all looking to expand of abilities.
When people want to know how to improve their photography, I suggest viewing other photographer's work & ask yourself why do you like that image....what is so appealing about it.

I have sent some participants their personal scores & comments about their image from the advanced judges.

Here are my suggestions....view each entry & analyze each photo & score them with our 9 point system(suggested by Rob). You will begin to see what we are looking for in an image & why Betty keeps winning. Ü

Betty has been shooting for the past 3 years(longer, I am sure)....she always asks questions, looks to other photographers for advice, and belongs to critique groups online.
You need to also look at her photos from the beginning of her journal. Click Here: Check out "Someday My Garden Will Bloom" and they have...Ü
You will see how her photos have progressively improved over the years. She has become an outstanding photographer.

A small imperfection in a photo could loose points, in my case, I received Honorable Mention, missed placement b/c my matte was too small. An 8 X10 photo in a 11X14 frame.

Again,
Keep in mind when shooting or selecting a photo for the challenge;
1. The theme of this challenge
2. Presentation
3. ***Composition ***
4. Interest
5. Quality

Check out
4 Rules of Composition for Landscape Photography

also
Photo composition rules

Tags: Prize winning Photographs, blogplugs

WINTER BLUES-BEGINNERS winner

2008-02-24T07:47:00.000-08:00

We had 5 out of 6 judges vote this time & out of the 5 everyonepicked different favorites. Because the votes were so scattered, inour next challenge, our (winner) judges will have to use the 9 pointsystem. It will make it much easier. Follow THE GUIDELINE FOR JUDGES

We have only one winner in the Beginners Category.

First Place goes to Julie from My Photo Journey

Congratulations to all the winners....& thank you to all the judges!!

Our Judges for next Beginner's challenge are Betty, Greg, Kat & Julie. All four can compete in the advanced category only.

Tags: winners, winter challenge, blogplugs

Important Ü

2008-02-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

ADVANCED Group ONLY
If anyone wants their scores & comments on their challenge entries, e-mail me & I will send your private critique. Rob has kindly wrote a few words about each image along with the scores. Even Vicki has expressed her thoughts about each image entered. As for me I just scored each photo, so if you would like your scores, drop me an e-mail, I will send you your scores.

Next Challenge will be totally run by Vicki .....Rob will assist in the ADVANCED group judging, again. On March 6, I will be leaving for Italy. My first trip EVER! Been trying not to get nervous about it, but I am excited....VEEEEEEERY! So, as long as nothing happens, like sickness or anything.......I will be gone from March 6th & return on the 15th.
I wasn't going to bring a computer, but I can, I guess, not sure if it's necessary, I don't know if I can get Internet access everywhere, anyway....I am not a traveler...Ü I just don't know these things.

WINTER BLUES-ADVANCED winners

2008-02-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

We have 3 winners in the Advance category. I am still waiting for the judges to submit their choices for the Beginners.

FIRST PLACE-Betty from My Day My Interests

Rob said this about Betty's image
" well-composed, nicely cropped, beautiful color, tack sharp"

Greg & Kat tied for second place

Greg from Phototrek

Kat from In My Dreams I can Fly

Tags: WinterBlues challenge, winners, blogplugs

An Important Addition to the Basic Guidelines

2008-02-23T14:47:00.000-08:00

This is just a short entry to let all our photographers know that there's an important update to the "Basic Guidelines" document:

--IMPORTANT--PLEASE READ!!!!! All entrants into the challenge grant permission to the Challenge owners to post their images in the event they win. No further permissions will be requested and the ONLY use of the images will be to display them in the "winner's circle."

This means that, by entering a challenge and placing a link to your image, you are automatically granting us permission to use your image in the event you win. If you do not want us to post your image, please don't enter the challenge. Email me (CmishVicki) and/or Marie (MarieBM56) if you have any questions...

Creative Challenge-Collage

2008-02-22T14:09:00.000-08:00

Another Creative Challenge-COLLAGE

The Self Portrait Challenge seemed fun & successful, so I wanted to add another this
week. Again, you can enter anytime you want.

The collage can be of anything...you decide, post it on your blog, come back here &
leave a link. You can add a little explanation on what you did & why. PLEASE
follow GUIDELINES (use permalinks). Like the last creative challenge, there will
be no judging.

This one starts today....enjoy~

Example of collages...you can do Sports
or anything like scrapbooking..check out Donna's graphics some of her posts are collages.
I will try to find some tutorials & post on my old UK Blog

If you don't have an Editing program , like Photoshop & Elements, you can download Picasa(free program from Google)....My old UK journal has 2 videos on there.
Check it out
http://journals.aol.co.uk/mariebm56/PhotographsMemoriestoo/entries/2008/02/23/picasa/2518

Tags: collage, creative challenge, blogplugs

Guidelines for Judges

2008-02-17T19:04:00.000-08:00

Guidelines for Judging

ALL winners in the previous challenge will judge the next challenge.

We use a Nine Point System:

1-3 for impact
1-3 for technique
1-3 for composition
9 = Excellent; 8 = Very Good; 7 = Good; 6 = Fair; 5 = Nice Try.

It helps to decide which ones score the highest & deserve recognition.

The judges do not need to use this system.
But they do need to select their first choice & second choice, as follows

1st CHOICE-Name, Screen name, Blog name
                 & link/url address.
2nd CHOICE-Name, Screen name, Blog name
                  & link/url address
3rd CHOICE-Name, Screen name, Blog name
                  & link/url adress
(3rd choice will help with any ties)

Then e-mail their choices to me, Marie and Vicki on Saturday.

AOL Community Photo Challenge-Winter Blues[Advanced]

2008-02-15T10:13:00.000-08:00

ADVANCED CATEGORY-Winter Blues

This week's challenge is WINTER BLUES.....Could be a winter scene, something that shows YOUR WINTER in YOUR TOWN.....or something blue for those who do not really have a winter. Use your imagination for this week's challenge if you don't have any snow.

PLEASE follow Guidelines, if you have any questions, e-mail both Vicki & myself.
Posting entries start today & ends next Friday the 22nd.

Again, there are 2 categories, so pick the one you feel comfortablesubmitting in. Post your photo on your blog, come back here &leave your permalink in the comment area. Please only leave a link toyour entry.
Those winners from last weeks challenge will judge the beginners category.

Tags: Winter Blues, blogplugs, photography, challenge

AOL Community Photo Challenge-Winter Blues[Beginners]

2008-02-15T10:10:00.000-08:00

BEGINNERS CATEGORY-Winter Blues

This week's challenge is WINTER BLUES.....Could be a winter scene, something that shows YOUR WINTER in YOUR TOWN.....or something blue for those who do not really have a winter. Use your imagination for this week's challenge if you don't have any snow.

PLEASE follow Guidelines, if you have any questions, e-mail both Vicki & myself.
Posting entries start today & ends next Friday the 22nd.

Again, there are 2 categories, so pick the one you feel comfortable submitting in. Post your photo on your blog, come back here & leave your permalink in the comment area. Please only leave a link to your entry.
Those winners from last weeks challenge will judge the beginners category.

Tags: Winter Blues, blogplugs, photography, challenge

Extra CHALLENGE-Self Portrait

2008-02-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

Extra CHALLENGE in addition to Friday's challenge

This challenge starts today & can be posted all this week thru the weekend. No rules, anything goes. Must be a self portrait : a portrait of oneself done by oneself
You can use Photoshop or any editing program, be creative....
Have fun & show your true self...Ü
Leave only a link to your entry here in the comment area.

Only one category on this challenge.
There will be no judging.

So get your tripods out & use your timer.....& say CHEEEEEEEEEEESE!
(or just stick your arm out, aim it your way & snap...Ü)

Tags: self portrait, challenge, blogplugs, photography

Winners for the Beginners Challenge-LOVE

2008-02-10T13:59:00.000-08:00

Here are the winners for the Beginners Challenge.

We have ONE First Place Winner & that goes to..........

Nancy From Nancyluvspix

We have THREE Second Place Winners...

Kathy from-Unedited ME

Nancy- From -My Life & Loving it

Chrissie from-Just for Fun

Congratulations to all our winners!!!
Thank you to our judges.....Sue, Martha, Monica, Betty & Chelle!
Great Job~

Tags: community photo challenge, love, winners, beginners, blogplugs

Winners for the Advanced Challenge-LOVE

2008-02-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

We have a tie in the Advanced Challenge-LOVE
This week there are only 2 winners & both are 1st Place.

Monica from
Midnight-conversations

Sam from
Dock Lines

Congratulations to our winners!!!

Thank you to our judges, Vicki & Rob, who gave their time to view all the entries,
scored & commented on each. If anyone would like an individual email on their
scores, just let me know.

Thank you to all who participated, we hope to keep this fun & that everyone is
enjoying these challenges. We are always looking for feedback, so you can e-mail
anyone of us.

Tags: Winners, Advanced challenge, Love, blogplugs

Photoshop & Elements Tutorials

2008-02-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

I decided to also include my old UK Journal. I've been posting a few Photoshop & now, Photoshop Elements video tutorials on my old journal. These are a few videos I've found that I wanted to share with a few fellow JLanders who are new to Photoshop & Elements.
Click on Photographs & Memories

Tags: photoshop, photoshop elements, tutorials, videos, blogplugs

Tips & Tricks

2008-02-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

Another great website for photography tutorials is found right here within
our own AOL Journals. Greg from Photo Trek started his own Tips & Tricks journal.

The tutorials found here are intended to not only help you out with your
photography, but also give a greater understanding of what goes into creatinga
photograph. ~Greg

So check it out, if you haven't already~
http://journals.aol.com/radar446/tnt/

Tags: Tips & Tricks, tutorials, photography, blogplugs

Photo Tips & Tutorials

2008-02-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

Clyde from oldetownephotos has posted Photo Tips & Tutorials on his blog. Check it
out...... I am posting the link on our sidebar, also.
http://www.slrtoday.com/categories/Photo-Tips-%26-Tutorials/

Tags: Photo tips & tutorials, blogplugs

ADVANCED- AOL Community Photo Challenge-LOVE

2008-02-01T05:09:00.000-08:00

AOL Community Challenge-LOVE

With Valentine's day upon us this month, our next challenge was suggested by Betty.
Of course, this can be of anything that represents love. There are many forms of love, so this should be an easy challenge.
Love is all around us......so find it, capture it, or just use a photo from the past, that says it!

*REMEMBER that you may enter as many photos on one entry, but the first photo(the top photo) will be the one judged.

Please follow the guidelines.

Deadline is Friday Feb. 8th.

Remember to visit all the entries & try to leave a comment.

ALL WINNERS FROM THE LAST CHALLENGE WILL BE JUDGING THE "BEGINNERS" CATEGORY.

Judges are

Betty from My Day My Interests
Monica from Midnight Conversations.

Michelle from Reflections
Martha from Perceptions
Sue from Southern Ca Desert and More.....

These judges can also enter in this challenge, but must post in the Advanced category.

*ADVANCED* enter here

Tags: blogplugs, Photography, Photo Challenge, love

BEGINNERS-AOL Community Photo Challenge- LOVE

2008-02-01T05:07:00.000-08:00

Tags: blogplugs, Photography, Photo Challenge, love

Guidelines Revisited--A Synopsis

2008-01-29T09:14:00.000-08:00

To all our wonderful photographers, we'd like to say "Thanks for playing!" In an attempt to make things clear and to settle all confusion, here's an outline of the challenge as it has evolved. If a question isn't answered, let Marie and Vicki know so we can address it.

Guidelines:

--Challenges are bi-weekly on the following schedule:

--Topic will be announced on a Friday, end the following Friday and winners will be announced on or before the following Monday. Everyone then rests for a week before the next challenge is announced the following Friday.
--You may still post an entry after the deadline, but it won't be eligible to win...we'd still love to see it, though!
--The winning images will be posted on the challenge journal the Monday following the deadline--for all to enjoy.

--Self-portraits must be just that--a portrait of yourself taken by yourself. If you submit a photo taken by someone else, it's not yours. This challenge is for YOU to showcase your best work.

--Entries - to be eligible for the challenge the following must be followed:

--Entries in your journal must indicate in the subject that it IS an entry into the challenge. The title of your entry can read: AOL Community Photo Challenge - <challenge subject> and should contain a link to the Challenge itself.
--The link (PERMALINK to the entry NOT your entire journal) should then be posted to the comments section of the announcement for the level you're participating in (Advanced or Beginner). This will guide folks back to view your entry and give you exposure.
--All entries must be new ones and be posted during the challenge timeframe. Please do not post a link to an old entry--it will be removed from the comment section.
--NEW: Make a decision as to whether you want to compete in EITHER the Beginner or the Advanced category...then post your image in ONLY ONE of them.
--Presentation counts. If your image needs a border, add one. If it doesn't, don't. Just be sure any frame or border you add enhances your image and doesn't overpower the image. The presentation can win or lose a challenge, sometimes KISS works (Keep It Simple...).
--IMPORTANT--PLEASE READ!!!!! All entrants into the challenge grant permission to the Challenge owners to post their images in the event they win. No further permissions will be requested and the ONLY use of the images will be to display them in the "winner's circle."

We hope this information clears up any remaining confusion. Let us know if it doesn't. :)

Tags: blogplugs, guidelines, challenge,

Beginners-HOMETOWN Winners

2008-01-28T07:41:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all our judges; Betty, Donna, Julie, & Nancy in our Beginners Category.

FIRST PLACE

MICHELLE from Reflections

SECOND PLACE

Martha From Perception

HONORABLE MENTION

Sue from Southern Ca Desert and more...

Congratulations to our winners & Thank you to everyone who judged & participated!!!

Advanced Winners-Hometown

2008-01-27T10:58:00.000-08:00

This week we had a few new people to our challenge & I just want to say WELCOME... & a special Thank you to Donna for suggesting HOMETOWN! It was an enjoyable challenge.

We have a 1st place & 2nd Place winners in both categories...also, this time we have
an Honorable Mention. We thought it should be mentioned that HM did tie for 2nd
place in the beginners category, but there was no mention of the challenge in her
ENTRY, so we decided to include her this time, because it was an excellent image, she
did get votes & she is a newcomer.

I know things have been confusing the past month, but we are revising the Basic
Guidelines & hope it will clear things up. It is important to use the COMMUNITY
CHALLENGE- "NAME OF CHALLENGE" in your SUBJECT area of your post, this way it is
easier for people to find it & you must link our Challenge to your entry.

~Marie

Congratulations to our winners & thank you all for participating in our second challenge. Please spread the word for future Challenges.

Thank you to Rob from   Lord I Was Born a Ramblin Sam
& Vicki our judges for helping out

If anyone would like a copy of the comments that Sam & Vicki left along with
the scores I will send privately.

FIRST PLACE

Betty   from My Day My Interests

SECOND PLACE

Monica(a wedding Photographer) from Midnight Conversations

Tags: Winners, challenge, hometown, blogplugs, advanced

Advanced_Hometown Challenge links

2008-01-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

ADVANCED_ Hometown Challenge Links

rbrown6172

monicasmemoirs

Gotomaria

gaboatman

fasttrack58

nightmaremom

oldetownephotos

pharmolo

http://journals.aol.co.uk/pharmolo/NorthernTrip/entries/2008/01/20/aol-community-photo-challenge---hometown/5740

rap4143

Our Judges......w/entries not included in the judging
Cmishvicki & mariebm56
journal
Rob, akasamdodsworth

Tags: challenge links, blogplugs, hometown, photography

Beginners - links for HOMETOWN

2008-01-26T13:38:00.000-08:00

Beginners _ Hometown Challenge Links

lifes2odd

vbonalesmd

gryphondear

cadesertrose

inafrnz247

jeanno43

specialadyfink

madcobug

Challenge Banner

2008-01-26T06:16:00.000-08:00

Here are 2 Challenge Banners for future entries, you may copy & use on future challenges. I kept it narrow & simple, so it wouldn't over power your entries.
There are 2 sizes. I use a 10.5 inch banner on my MAC;

A smaller size - 8 inches wide, recommended for Window PC's

You have permission to copy these & use on your journal challenges. You may try
to link the image to this journal, but sometimes it needs to be linked twice...for some
reason the links to images does not set the first time. Make sure you check the link.
Thank you all for your continued support~

Tags: Photo, blogplugs, challenge, banner, photography

Basic Guidelines

2008-01-25T07:08:00.000-08:00

Basic Guidelines on all Challenges

Basic Guidelines

1.Challenges will be biweekly

2.Any photos submitted must be taken by you, the person participating.
If you are in the photo, then it must be a self portrait.

3.We post the new challenge on Fridays & give you a full week to get out & photograph or just select a past photo you have taken, then post it. You can post anytime during that week.

4. The deadline is always the following Friday ( for judging)....but you may post anytime after that. Judging will take place on Saturday &/or Sunday. We will post the winners on Monday. It's a friendly challenge, not a popularity contest.

*5. All entries need a link, just the entry, not the entire journal, back to OUR Challenge entry .
[We need to see the entry as The Challenge entry which needs to link back to this journal. When posting your permalink to the comment area it needs to be a link to the ENTRY, not just your journal.]or it may not be considered in the judging.

6. ALL entries need to be new posts. It must be an entry posted within the given time, not before, you can not add a link to the comment area from an old post.

We ask that you visit all entries & leave comments when you can.....Ü Just to be nice~

Tags: Challenges, photo, guidelines, blogplugs

Beginner or Advanced? How to decide...

2008-01-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

There seems to be some confusion as to what constitutes Beginner and Advanced in skill levels, since 99.9% of us are really amateurs. I hope I can clear things up with the following:

--Beginners are folks who snap a photo for whatever reason they have--creating "snapshots." They don't have the training for advanced photography. It's where we all started out. Most don't stay at that level...so keep learning!

--Advanced photographers have been shooting long enough (how long is enough? that's very subjective!) to have acquired some skill in composition, lighting, etc. They don't all have to be using SLR cameras, but if you're skilled at using one, you're definitely advanced. Folks who belong to camera clubs, who have taken any classes, or tutorials, on photography, who have skills in Photoshop...these are advanced.

Look back over your photos...if you've improved greatly since you started, you should seriously think about entering at the Advanced level. Marie and I will try to gently nudge those of you who we think belong there. The final decision is yours, though.

Tags: blogplugs, skill levels, beginner, advanced

Clearing Up Some Confusion

2008-01-19T16:28:00.000-08:00

There seems to be a bit of confusion about which level folks should enter to submit their images. I think the confusion comes from the use of the word Amateur for both of the levels, since even the advanced photographers are mostly amateurs. To clarify the differences, please think of the two levels as:

1. BEGINNER

2. ADVANCED

We hope this clears up any confusion folks might have. You can always email one or all of us if you have any questions. :)

Tags: blogplugs, skill levels, categories

Community Photo Challenge-Hometown[Advanced ONLY]

2008-01-18T07:17:00.000-08:00

Community Photo Challenge-Hometown[Advanced ONLY]

The theme for this week's challenge will be Hometown, suggested by Donna.

Select a photo that best represents "Hometown"
This could be something you love about where you live, either yourhometown, home state, country....anything that shows your home. It isyour interpretation of "Hometown" or "Home"

Repeat from another post....
[Marie: "Examples; NYC, the city skyline at night. or Could be aseaside cottage, or country home..... I recently was part of a photochallenge & was asked to suggest a theme.
This was mine "Home is where the Heart is"]

You may add something about why you chose this photo.
All entries must have a description of the photo, including when it was taken (the year) & where. Anything that would be of interest to visitors checking out your image.

AGAIN....
Keep in mind when shooting or selecting a photo for the challenge;
1. The theme of this challenge
2. Presentation
3. Composition
4. Interest
5. Quality

ALSO.....
Please TRY visit all participants in both categories & leavecomments on all those who have entered in this challenge. Don't forgetto leave your link on all comments. Ü

A reminder....Vicki & I will be posting photos, but will not be considered in the challenge when judging.
Thank you all, again, for making the first challenge a great success& all your wonderful, encouraging comments left on this journal. We all truly appreciate your support. Ü

If you have any suggestions, you may leave them in the comment area or E-mail one or all of us.

•ADVANCED ONLY POST IN THIS COMMENT AREA•

Tags: blogplugs, photo, challenge, photography, hometown, aol journals

Community Photo Challenge-Hometown[Amateurs ONLY]

2008-01-18T07:14:00.000-08:00

Community Photo Challenge-Hometown[Beginners ONLY]

The theme for this week's challenge will be Hometown, suggested by Donna.

Select a photo that best represents "Hometown"
This could be something you love about where you live, either your hometown, home state, country....anything that shows your home. It is your interpretation of "Hometown" or "Home"

Repeat from another post....
[Marie: "Examples; NYC, the city skyline at night. or Could be a seaside cottage, or country home..... I recently was part of a photo challenge & was asked to suggest a theme.
This was mine "Home is where the Heart is"]

You may add something about why you chose this photo.
All entries must have a description of the photo, including when it was taken (the year) & where. Anything that would be of interest to visitors checking out your image.

AGAIN....
Keep in mind when shooting or selecting a photo for the challenge;
1. The theme of this challenge
2. Presentation
3. Composition
4. Interest
5. Quality

ALSO.....
Please TRY visit all participants in both categories & leave comments on all those who have entered in this challenge. Don't forget to leave your link on all comments. Ü

A reminder....Vicki & I will be posting photos, but will not be considered in the challenge when judging.
Thank you all, again, for making the first challenge a great success & all your wonderful, encouraging comments left on this journal. We all truly appreciate your support. Ü

If you have any suggestions, you may leave them in the comment area or E-mail one or all of us.

•Beginners ONLY POST IN THIS COMMENT AREA•

Tags: blogplugs, photo, challenge, photography, hometown, aol journals

Reminder, vote for the next challenge

2008-01-17T07:47:00.000-08:00

The next challenge will be posted on Friday with 2 separate entries for 2 separate
groups, Amateurs & Advanced amateurs/Professionals. Please remember to post only
one in the group you feel comfortable entering. [If you are a photographer, please do
not enter in the amateur group]

I, Marie, will be judging the advanced group, along with Vicki & Rob.

Keep in mind when shooting or selecting a photo for the challenge;
1. The theme of this challenge
2. Presentation
3. Composition
4. Interest
5. Quality

Here are a few links you may want to check out.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/arts/apictureofbritain/how_to/

http://www.hitouchimaging.com/DigitalTech/THD_DT702.asp

http://www.popphoto.com/?path=G&WT.srch=1&gclid=CPPhmuCV5ZACFQfbQAodmxMQQg

Vicki added.....
Comment from: cmishvicki
"Hi, Marie, and everyone...just want folks to know that Marie and I will still post somethingappropriate for the challenge. We just won't be eligible to win...but this is FUN!
Vicki"

CHALLENGE•POLL

2008-01-16T07:26:00.000-08:00

Donna's suggestion is
Hometown,a place where you live, your home state, country...what you love about yourhome. Something that represents your home,state, country. It is your interpretation of "Hometown" or "Home"

[Marie: "Examples; NYC, the city skyline at night. or Could be a seaside cottage, or country home..... I recently was part of a photo challenge & was asked to suggest a theme.
This was mine"Home is where the Heart is"]

Nancy,
"The Unexpected"
Anything surprising....could be anything. Something one seesthat they didn't expect to see (and they shoot it)...or it could be a photothat one manipulates to show the viewer something unexpected.

Betty
suggestion for February.....love/romance for St. Valentine's Day. which we will do the following challenge for Feb.

Julie
suggested Winter, so Vicki also made mention about the color Blue & Winter Blues......So maybe The Color Blue & Winter Blues so a winter scene....with blue in it..Ü
Maybe something blue with a winter theme.

Please vote only once. Thanks~

In additon....Any theme that was listed & not used will be added to our list for future challenges.

Comment from: cmishvicki
"Just want to clarify something about my suggestion.I loved the idea of a Winter theme, but many of us live in areas where thereare really no seasons...so, Blue or Winter Blues gives someone in southernFlorida the chance to enter something that's still appropriate--like a BlueHeron. :)

Tags: poll, blogplugs, challenge, photo, photography

AOL Community Photo Challenge

Our New Community Winner's Gallery

Blogger-Feedblitz Alerts

FIRST BLOGGER CHALLENGE ALERT!

SUBSCRIBE

OUR NEW HOME

IMPORTANT NOTICE for future Challenges

AOL Community Photo Challenge-September WINNER!!

AOL Community Photo Challenge-September POLL

Something a Little Different for This Page

AOL Community Photo Challenge-September

Drumroll, please..............

Time to Vote!

AOL Community Photo Challenge-SUMMER!

AOL Community Photo Challenge - Part Deux

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN! ••ENTRIES••

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN! REMINDER

AOL Community Challenge-SUMMER FUN!

AOL Community Challenge•FIREWORKS•FUN only

AOL Community Challenge-The Magic Hour- JUDGED

AOL Community Challenge•FIREWORKS•FUN only

AOL Community Challenge-The Magic Hour- FUN

AOL Community Challenge-The American Flag

Critiques vs. Opinions...

AOL Community Challenge-The American Flag*FUN*

Reminder & Small change

Found Cameras & Orphan Pictures

AOL Community Challenge-The Animal Within FUN ONLY!

AOL Community Challenge-The Animal Within FUN ONLY!

AOL Community Photo Challenge-The Magic Hour FUN!

AOL Community Challenge-The Magic Hour-JUDGED

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! JUDGED

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! FUN!!

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! For FUN!

AOL Community Challenge-Landscapes in COLOR! JUDGING

Happy Mother's Day J-Land!

Photography & Your Legal Rights

EXTRA Creative Challenge-Tribute to Mothers

I want to apologize........

B&W Landscape Just for fun!

B & W Landscape Challenge Winners

Clarification of Permalink Rule for Judged Entries

AOL Community Challenge•Landscapes in Black & White•JUDGED

AOL Community Challenge•Landscapes in Black & White•FUN

Please Vote for Next Challenge Theme...Ü

AOL Community Photo Challenge-POSTCARDS!

AOL Community Challenge•Postcard Winner

AOL Community Photo Challenge-POSTCARDS• ANYTHING GOES! JUDGED

AOL Community Challenge-POSTCARDS•Anything goes! FUN

AOL Community Challenge-AGED•WINNERS•

Highlightling the Fun Challenge

Viewing graphics & banners on this page

Critiquing ourselves....

AOL Community Photo Challenge•AGED-JUDGED

AOL Community Photo Challenge•AGED-FUN

Small Change

•Creative Challenge EXTRA•

WEARING OF THE GREEN - WINNER/ADVANCED CATEGORY

WEARING OF THE GREEN - WINNERS/BEGINNER CATEGORY

*REMINDER*

Changes....Ch ch ch changes

Helpful Tid-bit• Horizon Line

CHALLENGE TOPIC CLARIFICATION - WEARING OF THE GREEN

AOL Community Photo Challenge - Wearing of the Green {Advanced}

AOL Community Photo Challenge - Wearing of the Green {Beginner}

MARCH INTO SPRING - WINNERS OF BEGINNER CATEGORY

MARCH INTO SPRING - WINNER IN ADVANCED CATEGORY

AOL Community Photo Challenge - March into Spring {Advanced}

AOL Community Photo Challenge - March into Spring {Beginner}

Creative Challenge EXTRA•Photo Animation

"Prize-winning Photographs"

WINTER BLUES-BEGINNERS winner

Important Ü

WINTER BLUES-ADVANCED winners

An Important Addition to the Basic Guidelines

Creative Challenge-Collage

Guidelines for Judges

AOL Community Photo Challenge-Winter Blues[Advanced]

AOL Community Photo Challenge-Winter Blues[Beginners]

Extra CHALLENGE-Self Portrait

AOL Community Challenge-The American FlagFUN

REMINDER