There must be a MINIMUM of THREE judges.
One must be a member of NPPA.
You are now REQUIRED to write comments.
One comment should be written in both the storytelling category and in the technique category. There should be at least one comment in the "Ideas for Improvement" box and the "Best Things About the Story" box.
Writing Comments
The comments you write are the primary reason that most people enter the quarterly clip contest. They can also be the reason people don't enter. Nothing can kill someone's spirit faster than an unkind comment.
Mention what you like and what you don't like. Be specific and constructive. For example: "Could you have gotten closer to the subject for better natural sound?" Comments like "not a contest piece" tell them nothing. If you didn't like the ending, tell them what you would have liked to have seen. Tell them what the story needed to show off their talents. Be constructive.
Judge the photographer on what you see. Don't judge the photographer on the reporter's work. But do point out that the photographer needs to work more closely with the reporter if it is appropriate. Be constructive.
If you see a poorly shot story, remember photographers in different stages of their careers are entering this contest. Remember when you couldn't shoot your way out of a paper bag? We've all been there. Be constructive.
Selecting Winners
Winners should be selected by their storytelling ability. Look for the entry that tells the story that ...
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has a beginning, middle and end
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few technical flaws
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good natural sound
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the pics tell the story
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You may determine that a story is in the wrong category. You may disqualify it or move it, but this is a very important decision so be certain your reasons are sound enough to back your actions.
Give each story a point score, but don't select your winners based solely on points. Rather, use these points as a guide to pick your top stories and discuss what rank these stories should be given.
THERE CAN BE NO TIES. You must award first, second and third places if there are six or more stories entered in that category. If fewer than six stories are entered, you may award all three places if you feel the entries justify the awards. You may award an honorable mention (one per category) if you feel it is justified.
ALL JUDGES MUST SIGN THE JUDGING VALIDATION FORM.
Thank you for taking time to judge. You comments separate this contest from a host of others. You great care and attention will greatly benefit all those who enter.
