There are three things a photographer needs: ideas, a way to express those ideas and some form of feedback or a mentor.

Better Photography magazine does the first two extremely well (so I'm told), but we're not really set up to provide feedback or mentorship. Then I had a thought: why not offer all subscribers a free entry (valued at $20) into the magazine's annual photography competition - because every entry receives a score and a comment from the judges. Perhaps this feedback could help?

Now, I realise this doesn't replace a proper mentor, but we do have three AIPP Grand Masters of Photography judging. And the judge comments link into the How To Win Photo Competitions series of articles run in Issues #96 to #100 (these are available online in the archive if you need to find them).

Of course, I'm hoping some subscribers will enter a few more paid entries, but there's no obligation. The offer of a free entry is genuine, no strings attached.

If you're not a subscriber to Better Photography magazine yet, what a great opportunity! Use the coupon code BP40 to get 40% off the annual subscription (from $49.80 down to $29.88) and receive a free entry into the competition valued at $20! 

And if you enter a total of five photos, as a subscriber you'll end up with two free entries because every fifth entry is free (if entered prior to 24 July)! The competition is now open and entries close on 31 July 2021.

Visit the Better Photography Photo of the Year website for further details - click here.

Good luck!