The event is one where a panel of master photographers, certified as judges by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), evaluate an image based on 12 elements (in order of importance):

Impact Technical Excellence Creativity Style Composition Presentation Color Balance Center of Interest Lighting Subject Matter Technique Story Telling

This is a step towards achieving my goal of certification by the PPA as a Certified Professional Photographer and to earn a degree as a Master of Photography. Entering print competition means that an image cannot just be "good enough" - it has to be great. That challenges me to always be always be learning and looking for ways to improve my craft. But I am not alone in this achievement - my clients win as well, by having a photographer who strives for excellence.

My heartfelt thanks to my models, Desirae Sanders (left) and Sarah Harrison (right), as well as a big thank you to Rusty Perkins, the owner of that lovely 1947 vintage knucklehead Harley Davidson and the person who graciously allowed us to shoot in his garage. Rusty is a master craftsman himself and Perk's is the place in Maryville, TN for restoration of classic motorcycles.