PetPitcher Forum - Tips On Submitting A Winning Entry By The Judges

Congratulations to all forum members on some really great plants and photos.

David asked me to write a few suggestions for the next competition;

For winning in terms of growing quality plants, I recommend the grower pays alot of attention to the natural conditions of the species of plant that is being cultivated. Not just in terms of being able to cultivate successfully, but being able to provide conditions which will enable the plant to thrive and display its natural beauty. Understanding factors such as light are fundamental to not only growing plants well, but producing an outstanding specimen.

In terms of photography, I really recommend the photographer thinks about the photo, what the focus is, what the back ground may be. Whether there is a particular motif - i.e. sunlight sparkling on the glue of a sundew, or a Nepenthes pitcher in repplicated natural conditions. Lighting is fundamental - especially if contrast between shade and light may be extreme, and cause the illuminated parts of the photo to be blown out. Most importantly though, the thought that goes into selecting a really beautiful subject to photograph is key to taking a beautiful picture.

Good luck to all of you growing and photographing your plants!

Best regards

Stewart McPherson

www.redfernnaturalhistory.com