Preparing Your Print Images For Competition

All prints (color and monochrome,) should be mounted so that the entry is 16″ X 20″ (including the mat), either horizontally or vertically.  There is no restriction on the color of the mat, though some judges show a preference for white. 

Photo prints need to be 8″ X 10″ or 11″ X 14″ . Photographs that are smaller than 7 ½ x 9 ½ are not acceptable.

All photos should be printed on photo paper.

Photo prints need to be 8″ X 10″ or 11″ X 14″ . Photographs that are smaller than 7 ½ x 9 ½ are not acceptable.

You can have these printed at Walgreens, CVS, etc. or you may enjoy going to one of our sponsors (like Iris Pro Imaging or Unique Imaging Concepts)to have them print your work and show you what else they have to offer to photographers.

Mat board is to be used as both the backing to the photo and as the cut-out frame for the photo. POSTER BOARD IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. Poster board is too flimsy. Foam core is an acceptable option for the backing of the photo.

You may purchase mats online (Amazon) or have them cut for you from local framing/craft shops (such as Michael’s or Hobby Lobby).

You may cut the mats yourself. If you do so, please use quality tools and sharp blades to have clean, straight cuts made. You can find quality mat cutters online (Amazon) that run approximately $140 and up.

There are many ways to assemble the photo to the mats.You may use clear scotch tape to tape the photo to the cut out mat. Be sure the tape is on the back of the photo and mat so when viewing from the front only the photo is seen in the cut away section. No tape, glue, or anything else should be visible on the front of the mat. That would detract from the image and would not be a professional presentation of the photo.Once the image is attached to the cut away mat, you can use double-side tape, spray-adhesive, etc. to attach it to another piece of mat board (with no cut away section) to be the back of your piece.

Another way to assemble the photo and mat boards together is to use the “Hinge Method”.

In this case you would attach the photo (using double-sided tape, spray adhesive, etc.) to the center of the full piece of mat board.

The board with the cut away section is attached to the second board with duct tape which is used as a hinge.

Use secure double-sided tape or rolled masking tape to hold the two mats together.

All prints should have the name of the exhibitor and the title of the print on the back of the print in the upper left corner. 

This is opposite of the way tags are affixed for the KY State Fair. 

No writing or markings should appear on the front of the photo or mat board.

“Clear Bags” are a way to protect your photo, but are not required for your entries.

“Clear Bags” is a company that makes these protective sleeves along with other supplies like mat boards and more. Visit their site at www.clearbags.com.