Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Jane, I've got a blow

Tonight, as I read the results I'd been waiting a month for, all I could think of was the line in Jane Eyre where Mr. Rochester learns Mason is in his house.... "Jane, I've got a blow; I've got a blow, Jane." Now, granted, my blow is much less by comparison, but it's definitely a let down. Allow me to explain.

As with many state fairs, having your photo selected for exhibit at the Photography Salon at the Iowa State Fair is an honor. I first entered in 2003 and all four of my photos were exhibited. One received honorable mention. I was shocked and thrilled. That year, 39% of the photos entered were exhibited. The next year, two of my four photos were exhibited. Overall, 36% of those entered were shown. I skipped five years and tried again this year. Tonight I learned none of my four were selected. I knew it would be tough since last year, only 22% were selected, but still..... it's disappointing.

As the news sank in, I kept thinking of the positive feedback I've received from my family, online friends & blog visitors. That feedback really helps put things in perspective for me. So what if the judges at our fair this year didn't care for my work, I like it, and so do others. I'll continue to photograph my way and be happy about it. And to those who've ever offered a positive comment on my work, I thank you!

If you're interested, I entered two of the photos already posted on my blog along with these two (without the watermarks, of course)...





2 comments:

Melissa ;-) said...

I'm sorry you didn't make it this year, but you are right - the judges didn't care for it, but that doesn't mean it isn't good! We hope you keep posting your wonderful photos!

K said...

Man, the competition must've been a tough one.
But if they only selected 1/5 of the photos it's easy to be left out, I think. Don't let it stop you!