OCC 2025/26 OCC Competitions
Club Members can participate in several competitions throughout the season.
The Club holds 4 General Competitions plus the Annual Club Competition (ACC).
General Competition:
- 3 main categories: Nature, Pictorial and Assigned Topic
- 5 entries per Competition with a maximum of 3 entries per category
- Can request comments on any 3 images per competition
- Results will be presented at a meeting night.
Annual Club Competition:
- 9 categories including 2 Assigned Topic
- 18 entries in total with a maximum of 2 entries per category
- No comments, just scores only
- Results will be presented at the Annual Photo Exhibition.
Terms for Submissions:
Maker retains full copyright of all submitted content (entries, photo essays, prints and files). Images, Prints & Photo essays submitted to the Club gives the Club express approval for publication, education purposes, presentation and/or use in promotional material for the Club. By submitting content, you acknowledge and agree to the terms.
File type: Jpeg (.jpg) File size: Within 1920×1080 pixels. Max of 1920 wide or 1080 high.
Colour profile = sRGB.
Maximum file size is maximum 4MB.
File Name = Image title.jpg
Also ensure that your files conform to the category rules follow the specific naming convention as outlined in the Member’s Handbook.
For the 4 General Competitions, aside from the Pictorial and Nature category, there will also be an additional Assigned Topic. The Assigned Topic is indicated below beside the Competition name and Deadline.
Categories: Please see the OCC Handbook for detailed definitions and guidelines. NOTE: There have been significant changes to the definition as of the 2022/23 season. See video below.
- Pictorial (Any Subject other than those defined as Nature)
- Nature (Nature Zoology: Non-Captive or domesticated animals, birds, invertebrates or Nature General: Non-Cultivated plants, geology or natural phenomena. Hand-of-Man is not allowed for Nature General Images. Hand-of-Man is allowed for Nature Zoology if kept to a minimum and follows the rule for natural adaptation.
- Assigned Topic: (This will be an assigned topic per each competition. Any subject matter as long as it follows the theme requirement. See below)
Assigned Topic Definitions for General Comps 1-4:
General Comp 1: “I Am Canadian”: Due Oct 7, 2025
Main subject should be focused on a distinctive Canadian theme, be it activities, scenery, nature, architecture or environment keeping in mind our unique Canadian cultural identity. Images containing graffiti or artwork/sculptures, while allowed, will not score well unless the maker has brought creativity to the image. Altered reality is allowed.
- Theme Representation – The photograph should capture elements, symbols, or moments that represent Canadian identity, culture or heritage. This could include landscapes, traditions, people, or iconic symbols (e.g. maple leaves, Mounties or hockey etc.
- Storytelling – The image should evoke emotions or convey a story that reflects what it means to be Canadian. Think about pride, connection, or unique experiences.
- Originality – The photo should bring a fresh perspective or a creative interpretation of Canadian identity, avoiding clichés while staying true to the theme.
- Diversity and Inclusion – Canada is known for its multiculturalism and natural diversity. Submission could highlight these aspects through unique subject matter or perspectives.
Use of Iconography – Submissions may incorporate well-known Canadian elements, such as the flag, landscapes like Niagara Falls or the Rockies or include Indigenous heritage, or seasonal imagery such as autumn leaves or snow.
General Comp 2: “Selective Focus”: Due Nov 4, 2025
Captures images where one area or subject is in sharp focus while the rest of the image is blurred, drawing attention to the focal point. This technique draws the viewer’s attention to the main subject by creating a visually striking contrast between the sharp focal point and the soft, out of focus background. Altered reality is not allowed.
- Theme Representation – The photograph should prominently showcase selective focus, where one area or subject is sharp and in focus, while the rest of the image is intentionally blurred. This technique is often used to emphasize a subject or convey mood.
- Subject Highlighting – The focused area or subject should be the main point of interest in the composition, drawing the viewer’s attention immediately.
- Depth of Field – Use shallow depth of field (e.g. a low f-stop/aperture setting) to achieve the desired effect of selective focus. Control of the lens and camera settings is key.
- Composition – The arrangement of elements in the image should work harmoniously to support the use of selective focus, with the blurred areas complementing the focused subject.
- Storytelling – Selective focus can be used creatively to tell a story, evoke emotions, or isolate specific details in the frame.
Technical – Proper execution is essential, sharpness and clarity in the focused area and smooth, pleasing blur (bokeh) in the out-of-focus areas add to the quality of the image.
General Comp 3: “All Things Glass”: Due Jan 6, 2026
Participants should creatively showcase the concept of glass – whether it’s reflections, transparency, fragility or artistic glasswork. Images can showcase creativity and originality and/or emotional impact and storytelling. Altered reality is not allowed.
- Theme Adherence – The photograph must prominently feature glass as the main subject or a significant element of the composition.
- Creativity – Unique perspectives, innovative use of lighting, or imaginative compositions are encouraged.
- Technical Excellence – Proper focus, exposure, and color balance are essential. The image should be sharp and well lit.
- Composition – The arrangement of elements in the frame should be visually appealing and draw attention to the subject.
Storytelling – The photograph should evoke emotions or tell a story related to the theme.
General Comp 4: “Macro/Clos-Up”: Due Feb 3, 2026
Captures detailed, up-close images of subjects which emphasize fine details that aren’t usually visible to the naked eye. This could include textures, patterns and intricate elements of your subject. It also may require magnification either by using a macro lens or by moving closer to your subject than you would normally. For those who do not own a Macro lens the use of inexpensive extension tubes can easily create a “macro lens result”, help is available from a Comp Committee member if needed. Altered reality is not allowed.
- Theme Adherence – The image must feature a close-up or extreme close-up view that highlights fine details not easily seen with the naked eye.
- Focus on detail – Sharp focus on the entire subject is crucial, especially in macro photography, where even slight blurring can detract from the impact.
- Lighting – Proper lighting is essential to emphasize textures, patterns, and minute details. Experimentation with natural or artificial light can enhance the composition.
- Composition – The framing should draw the viewer’s attention to the most intricate or compelling aspect of the subject.
- Scale and Magnification – The photo should make ordinary objects or subjects appear extraordinary by capturing the smallest nuances, often making them appear larger than life.
Originality – The work should be unique and showcase the photographer’s perspective or creative approach.
ACC Assigned Topics: Due March 3, 2026
Assigned Topic #1 : Old/New
Presenting the passage of time through old and new, such as vintage vs modern. Image should indicate the contrast between old and new elements within the same frame or through the merging of multiple exposures or composite images. Use your imagination to create a compelling story on the passage of time between your chosen subject which should have both the old and new item in the image.
- Contrast – Highlight the differences between old and new, such as architecture, technology or fashion. For example, a modern skyscraper beside a historic building.
- Storytelling – Convey a narrative that connects the old and the new, showing how they coexist or interact.
- Creativity – Use unique perspectives, angles, or compositions to emphasize the theme.
- Symbolism – Incorporate objects or scenes that symbolize the passage of time or evolution.
Altered reality is not allowed.
Assigned Topic #2 : Multiple Exposure
Involves capturing images using the multiple exposure technique, where two or more individual images are superimposed to create a single photograph. This can be done in-camera or through post-processing software. Unique perspectives and imaginative interpretations will be rewarded. Altered Reality is allowed.
- Creativity – Showcase artistic interpretation by blending exposures to tell a story, express emotions, or create surreal visual effects.
- Composition – Carefully plan the arrangement of layered elements to ensure the image remains visually balanced and impactful.
- Technical Execution – Demonstrate mastery of the technique – align exposures seamlessly and control transparency.
- Theme Alignment – Ensure the combined exposures work harmoniously to align with the main theme or intent.
- Imagination – Explore unconventional ideas – mix different genres, e.g., portraits with landscapes, times of day or symbolic elements.
Post-Processing – Employ editing tools to enhance blending and refining the image.
2025-26 Competitions Handbook
- Please read and understand before submitting entries as there have been some changes for the new season
Just ensure you’re submitting in the right category via the dropdown menu.
The only item that you will have to fill out will the Image Title box which will be picked up to create the final gallery for results. Eg. Toronto Skyline . This must match your filename exactly. Eg. (Title) Toronto Skyline = (File Name) Toronto Skyline.jpg. If there is a difference, your entry will be disqualified.
If you want a comment on entries, you are limited to any 3 images of your choosing.
Results for these competitions will be posted following the presentations at our club meetings.
Please Read Before Submitting Images: OCC Competition Participation Policy PDF
Note: Deadline time is Tuesdays, 6:00pm on the indicated dates
Competition 1: Geometric Shapes (Deadline: Oct 7, 2025)
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Competition 2: Framed within the Frame (Deadline: Nov 4, 2025)
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Competition 3: Urban Wildlife (Deadline: Jan 6, 2026)
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Competition 4: Patterns (Deadline: Feb 3, 2026)
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2025/26 ACC: (Deadline: March 3, 2026)
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OCC 2025/26 OCC Competitions
Club Members can participate in several competitions throughout the season.
The Club holds 4 General Competitions plus the Annual Club Competition (ACC).
General Competition:
Annual Club Competition:
Terms for Submissions:
Maker retains full copyright of all submitted content (entries, photo essays, prints and files). Images, Prints & Photo essays submitted to the Club gives the Club express approval for publication, education purposes, presentation and/or use in promotional material for the Club. By submitting content, you acknowledge and agree to the terms.
File type: Jpeg (.jpg) File size: Within 1920×1080 pixels. Max of 1920 wide or 1080 high.
Colour profile = sRGB.
Maximum file size is maximum 4MB.
File Name = Image title.jpg
Also ensure that your files conform to the category rules follow the specific naming convention as outlined in the Member’s Handbook.
For the 4 General Competitions, aside from the Pictorial and Nature category, there will also be an additional Assigned Topic. The Assigned Topic is indicated below beside the Competition name and Deadline.
Categories: Please see the OCC Handbook for detailed definitions and guidelines. NOTE: There have been significant changes to the definition as of the 2022/23 season. See video below.
Assigned Topic Definitions for General Comps 1-4:
General Comp 1: “I Am Canadian”: Due Oct 7, 2025
Main subject should be focused on a distinctive Canadian theme, be it activities, scenery, nature, architecture or environment keeping in mind our unique Canadian cultural identity. Images containing graffiti or artwork/sculptures, while allowed, will not score well unless the maker has brought creativity to the image. Altered reality is allowed.
Use of Iconography – Submissions may incorporate well-known Canadian elements, such as the flag, landscapes like Niagara Falls or the Rockies or include Indigenous heritage, or seasonal imagery such as autumn leaves or snow.
General Comp 2: “Selective Focus”: Due Nov 4, 2025
Captures images where one area or subject is in sharp focus while the rest of the image is blurred, drawing attention to the focal point. This technique draws the viewer’s attention to the main subject by creating a visually striking contrast between the sharp focal point and the soft, out of focus background. Altered reality is not allowed.
Technical – Proper execution is essential, sharpness and clarity in the focused area and smooth, pleasing blur (bokeh) in the out-of-focus areas add to the quality of the image.
General Comp 3: “All Things Glass”: Due Jan 6, 2026
Participants should creatively showcase the concept of glass – whether it’s reflections, transparency, fragility or artistic glasswork. Images can showcase creativity and originality and/or emotional impact and storytelling. Altered reality is not allowed.
Storytelling – The photograph should evoke emotions or tell a story related to the theme.
General Comp 4: “Macro/Clos-Up”: Due Feb 3, 2026
Captures detailed, up-close images of subjects which emphasize fine details that aren’t usually visible to the naked eye. This could include textures, patterns and intricate elements of your subject. It also may require magnification either by using a macro lens or by moving closer to your subject than you would normally. For those who do not own a Macro lens the use of inexpensive extension tubes can easily create a “macro lens result”, help is available from a Comp Committee member if needed. Altered reality is not allowed.
Originality – The work should be unique and showcase the photographer’s perspective or creative approach.
ACC Assigned Topics: Due March 3, 2026
Presenting the passage of time through old and new, such as vintage vs modern. Image should indicate the contrast between old and new elements within the same frame or through the merging of multiple exposures or composite images. Use your imagination to create a compelling story on the passage of time between your chosen subject which should have both the old and new item in the image.
Altered reality is not allowed.
Involves capturing images using the multiple exposure technique, where two or more individual images are superimposed to create a single photograph. This can be done in-camera or through post-processing software. Unique perspectives and imaginative interpretations will be rewarded. Altered Reality is allowed.
Post-Processing – Employ editing tools to enhance blending and refining the image.
2025-26 Competitions Handbook
2025/26 OCC Competitions Handbook
Just ensure you’re submitting in the right category via the dropdown menu.
The only item that you will have to fill out will the Image Title box which will be picked up to create the final gallery for results. Eg. Toronto Skyline . This must match your filename exactly. Eg. (Title) Toronto Skyline = (File Name) Toronto Skyline.jpg. If there is a difference, your entry will be disqualified.
If you want a comment on entries, you are limited to any 3 images of your choosing.
Results for these competitions will be posted following the presentations at our club meetings.
Please Read Before Submitting Images: OCC Competition Participation Policy PDF
Note: Deadline time is Tuesdays, 6:00pm on the indicated dates
Competition 1: Geometric Shapes (Deadline: Oct 7, 2025)
Sorry, you must be logged in to see this.Competition 2: Framed within the Frame (Deadline: Nov 4, 2025)
Sorry, you must be logged in to see this.Competition 3: Urban Wildlife (Deadline: Jan 6, 2026)
Sorry, you must be logged in to see this.Competition 4: Patterns (Deadline: Feb 3, 2026)
Sorry, you must be logged in to see this.2025/26 ACC: (Deadline: March 3, 2026)
Sorry, you must be logged in to see this.