MAGS 2024 Photography Competition: In Motion 

Welcome to "In Motion," Mount Albert Grammar School's 2024 photography competition. This year's theme is movement: freezing moments in time that embody a sense of dynamism and transience. From the graceful flow of dance to the exhilarating speed of motor racing, there are endless ways to capture life in motion. Scroll down to explore ideas and existing works by MAGS artists for inspiration.

This year's competition is open to all MAGS students. There are separate winners for the Junior and Senior categories. You do not need a camera to take amazing photos! 

Photos taken with cellphones, digital cameras, film cameras, or alternative photographic techniques, such as cyanotype, will be accepted (provided that the authenticity of the work can be proven). 

Competition dates:
Monday 6 May - Friday 21 June

Open to:
All current MAGS students

Prizes:
The competition is split into two categories: Senior (Y11-13) and Junior (Y9-10). There are separate first-, second-, and third-place prizes for the two sections. 

Senior
First: $50 Westfield voucher
Second and Third: Quality sketchbook + 64GB SD card

 Junior
First -  Ilford Disposable black and white film camera
Second and third – Quality sketchbook + 64GB SD card

How to submit:
For digital works, use this online submission form. For analogue works, e.g. film, please scan your work and submit to it the form. Acceptable formats: PNG, JPG, PDF. Maximum of FOUR entries per participant. 

Authentication of work:
If selected as a finalist, you will be required to submit the original file to verify the authenticity of your work. We recommend that you shoot in RAW format, if possible, to make it easier for us to authenticate your work. 

Any work that is not original or unable to be authenticated will be disqualified. 

Who will judge my artwork?
Photography Leaders and Visual Arts teachers.

How will the photos be judged?
Photographs will be judged on how well they convey the theme of "In Motion",  the level of technical difficulty, visual aesthetics, narrative value, and creative thinking. 

Motion Blur: Blurring elements in your photograph to emphasise speed and dynamism. Consider fluid dynamics such as flowing water and swirling fabrics. 

Freeze Frame: Moments of action frozen in time; think fast-paced sports, dance, or everyday activities captured with precise timing. 

Dynamic Landscapes: Capture landscapes that convey a sense of movement and change over time. Think flowing clouds, swaying trees, or landscapes transformed by natural forces like wind and water. 

Wildlife in Action: Animals running, flying, swimming or engaging in any form of dynamic behaviour.

Street Energy: Explore motion in street photography. Think bustling traffic and the rhythm of urban life.