2008 "DING" DARLING WILDLIFE SOCIETY
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Winners to be announced October 2008

CONTEST Entry Form

GUIDELINES:

• We welcome you as a participant in the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society’s photography contest, held each October to commemorate the birthday of one of American’s leading conservationists, cartoonists and environmental advocates, Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling. Protection of wildlife and the conservation of natural resources can be encouraged in a variety of ways. Photographic skill and an appreciation of wildlife and natural settings are consistent with Ding’s wish to express his views visually.
• 
  The contest rules follow. Submit photo(s) and entry form to “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society between June 1 and August 31, 2008, or mail them to the Society at One Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, FL 33957.
• Only amateur photographers are eligible to enter. (May not possess a professional photographer tax identification number for the sale of photographs).
• Photos must be taken at J.N. “Ding” Darling NWR and have been taken within the previous 2 years.
• Photos must be 8” x 10” (or full frame 8” x 12”) with an 11” x 14” mat. This will facilitate display in the Visitor Center. (Please – no hangers on the backs of photographs.) Frames are not permitted. Please include one 4X6 copy of entry.
• Each person may enter up to two photos but is eligible to win only one award
• Photos that have won awards in previous “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society photo contests may not be resubmitted.
• Judging will be anonymous. Please do not put your name or anything that will identify you on your photograph.
• Judging criteria:
  1) Technical excellence (sharpness, lighting, composition, exposure)
  2) Originality/creativity
  3) Interest
  4) Ability to be reproduced for publication
  
• Digital photos are acceptable. However, only limited image modifications are permitted. Manipulation should only be used to produce a more natural looking photograph. Cropping is allowed but any color modifications or adding any elements not existing in the original scene will not be allowed.
  
• All photos will become the property of the Society and will not be returned. There is no need to include a return envelope or postage.
  
• In the event that fewer than 16 entries are received, the Wildlife Society reserves the right to cancel the contest.
  
• First, second and third place winners and honorable mentions will be announced during the “Ding” Darling Day’s week long celebration held in October. Photos may be used by the Society in any way with appropriate credit.
  
• The Refuge and Wildlife Society cannot be held responsible for loss or damage of photos.