Photographs will be judged by a panel of experienced photographers:

 §        James L. Stanfield, a National Geographic photographer for over 35 years and recipient of a lifetime achievement award from the National Press Photographers Association

 §        Jim Dayton, a lifelong amateur photographer involved in wildlife research and development of tracking technology for the past 17 years
 

 §        John Beam, professional artist and instructor for 27 years at the Maryland Institute College of Art

 
James L. Stanfield welcomes contestants to the event . . .

Greetings from Chincoteague Island, Virginia

I offer my warmest welcome to those interested in participating in our Third Annual

Chincoteague-Assateague Island Photo Contest. If you share my passion for photography,

exploring an amazing location, and curiosity about widening your artistic horizons, please

join us on these unique Eastern Shore islands June 24-26. I’ve been fortunate to work behind the camera for The National Geographic for more than 35 years. My 65 magazine articles have led me to 120 countries to expand my understanding of the world by creating telling images.

Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “The question is not what you look at, but what you see.”

Please remember this….When we look at a subject, we look with everything we have lived. Our knowledge, our experience, and our total involvement enables us to relate to the subject, understand it better and produce more sensitive work.

For me, a good photo is one that is simple, direct, uncluttered and pleasing to the eye. A great photo is one that captures the immediacy of the moment. It demands an emotional response and challenges you to react.

Photography is the art of capturing pivotal moments of life. It’s like music…a language all of us can understand. When someone looks at one of my photographs I want them to emotionally feel what I felt. To be able to reach out and touch the subject…to laugh and to cry with them.

To succeed with that caliber image, stay with a worthwhile subject until you’re completely satisfied with what you’ve captured. Only then go on to your next idea.

As for equipment, bring camera gear that you are comfortable with and that is in good working order, including batteries. A tripod will come in handy for what warm glow of sunset and sunrise, which I urge you to take advantage of!

I look forward to our meeting and will end this invitation with a valuable quote from legendary Life Magazine photographer Margaret Bourke-White. “The camera is a remarkable instrument. Saturate yourself with your subject and the camera will all but take you by the hand.”

Good luck and enjoy the competition.

James L. Stanfield/National Geographic

Contest Judge