12 Elements of a Merit Print

The journey toward creating impactful, visually striking images is not only an artistic endeavor but also a technical pursuit that requires a keen eye, skillful execution, and a profound understanding of composition, storytelling, and more. At the heart of this endeavor lies the 12 Elements of a Merit Image—a framework that not only serves as a guiding light for photographers entering the Merit Image Review (MIR) and the International Photographic Competition (IPC), but also as a blueprint for elevating one's photographic artistry to new heights.

The Merit Image Review stands as a platform for photographers to present their work for evaluation by a panel of trained PPA jurors. Beyond the pursuit of merits for PPA degrees, the review process offers an opportunity for photographers to improve their craft. It's a chance to seek critiques, hone skills, and refine images for resubmission. The 12 elements serve as the bedrock for these evaluations.

Historically, the 12 Elements of a Merit Image were integral to judging images submitted to the International Photographic Competition. Today, while the IPC assesses images based on just four of those core elements—Impact, Technical Excellence, Composition, and Style—the 12 Elements remain relevant and important, particularly for photographers entering in the Merit Image Review.

On their own, each of the 12 Elements has individual significance, but their greatest lesson lies in their interconnectedness. It helps to view the elements all working together in harmony to shape the impact and quality of an image, instead of as a linear checklist. Each element contributes in its unique way and serves as a guide posts for photographers crafting images that resonate on multiple levels.

IMPACT

Viewing an image for the first time always evokes some kind of feeling. Sometimes they can make us sad, happy or angry. Sometimes they force us to look inward at ourselves. That’s called an impact, and the more powerful the image, the more powerful the emotional response of the viewer.

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE

The quality of the actual image as presented for viewing. Aspects such as retouching, sharpness, printing, color, and exposure should be spot on.

CREATIVITY

The image is original, fresh, and an external expression of the maker’s imagination.

STYLE

The distinct, recognizable artistic voice of the photographer, showing how subject matter and visual treatment seamlessly blend together. The subject matter meshes with the presentation. Style can also include the characteristic ways that an artist applies his or her specific lighting, posing, or compositional style to underscore the desired impact.

COMPOSITION

The deliberate arrangement of visual components designed to capture the viewer's attention and direct their eye across the image. The visual elements of an image come together to express intent, whether that’s to please the viewer or otherwise. The viewer’s attention is captured and directed where the artist plans it to be.

PRESENTATION

The way an image is showcased gives it a finished look. Everything in the presentation—mats, borders, color choices—should work to enhance the image.

COLOR BALANCE

Colors work together to evoke feelings in the viewer. For example, it can bring harmony to an image and enhance the emotional appeal. It can also be incongruous to arouse diverse feelings.

CENTER OF INTEREST

This is where an image’s creator wants a viewer’s attention focused. There may be primary and secondary centers of interest. Sometimes all the elements in an image work together to create the center of interest.

LIGHTING

The image demonstrates excellence in the use and control of light, whether natural or additive. Light informs dimensions and shape, sets tone and mood, and enhances the image.

SUBJECT MATTER

The subject matter is central to the story being told, so the subject should sync with the story.

TECHNIQUE

The approaches used to create the image—lighting, posting, capture, presentation—work together to be effective.

STORYTELLING

The image evokes the viewer's imagination. While the act of creating is a personal thing, so too is the act of viewing. Each image is a story, and the one it tells a viewer may be unique to that person.

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