Gauging The Photography Entries & Sharing My Own

I have Googled the synonym for the word "judging" because I find it peculiar to use that term in determining the winners for this amazing Photography contest that we have right now in the Steemit Philippines emerging community.

God is the only allowed Entity to judge any living creature and anything we could all possibly imagine. So, by this perception, I feel kinda awkward if I will be judging these amazing entries just being one of the judges from this activity.

Here is my entry to this week's theme: Filipino Culture.

^{This vintage photo was originally shot by Pentax K-1000 SLR with 500mm lens at broad daylight.}

This is a vintage physical photograph that was taken shot using my Oppo A5S. It was already around two-decades-old photo (23 years) to be exact. This photo was taken during the feast of Majayjay, Laguna where-in they are well-known for their astounding colorful celebration of their festivity.

Apparently, We were also celebrating the Centennial Memorial of our Spanish Independence last Y-1998. This is quite indeed a historical event in the Philippines.

This tradition was passed along to the modern times from our ancestors. They always prepare for this feast that they have. Majayjay, Laguna is well-known for the abundant agricultural resources for both land and live-stock. Thus their farming are indeed thriving and being blessed for all these years.

^{Title: Durungawan Sa Pahiyas - Winner - 2nd Place in the Photography Contest.}

^{Garnering an average of 95.8% This photo won the 2nd Place included in the 3 Grand Winning Entries. I was awarded by former Laguna Governor Ning-ning Lazaro when the awarding ceremony was held in San Pedro Manpower Training Center.}

I was taking up a photography class that time while I was on my graduating year in the secondary level. After class of 4:30 PM I went straight to our Basic Photography Class and then took up its basic principles every Mondays to Fridays from 6PM till 9PM for 3 months.

We had like three #Photography contests during our batch and proud that I won the first place in those three different contests.

Here is the 1st Place - The Grand Winner

^{Title: "Si Lola Sa Pahiyas"}

^{Garnering a total score of 96.5%, the Governor said: "It's you again?" A satisfying feeling when these leaders and significant people actually appreciate the talents, skills and creativity of their constituents.}

Although I might agree with some people if they would think that the Photo Quality is not that bewildering as what the judges have perceived. If given the chance that I would critique my own entry now, since my eyes are already immersed with eye-popping photos, this wouldn't stand a chance to be chosen.

The photo itself is under-exposure. The speed did not compensate with the opening of the aperture of the Single-Reflex camera that I have.

I am deeply honored to be one of the judges in this awesome contest that we have here in the community of brilliant Filipinos.

With this, I have set my own criteria doing the critique to these awesome entries.

The Criteria:

Relevance / Adherence to the theme: Filipino Culture

This will also cover the story depicting the submitted photo.

30%

Visual Impact

The distinctiveness of the photo if a person would actually take a second glance of it and how it stands out from the rest.

30%

Photo Quality and Composition:

This applies the basic rules in photography. Subject, background, clarity, sharpness, technique, rule of thirds, etc.

40%

I have created an excel sheet for this and will just be shown to everyone when the announcement of winners is posted.

Thank you so much for checking my honorary entry.

I firmly believe that Festivals or what we call "fiestas" , "piyesta" or "kapistahan" are a pure determinant of the tradition and culture of the Filipino people. It depicts our faith and Religion which solidify our spirituality. This is the most essential part of the society. The mere fact that we put our efforts to the preparation of these flamboyant celebrations, it is clear that our culture is distinct to everyone else from the rest of the world.

Exhibiting the talents, artistry and creativity of our fellowmen during these extravagant events, this makes our Nation and the Filipinos proud of what we are.

Have an amazing weekend.

This is @Fycee

Your Steemit Philippines Moderator - Luzon