When I was first starting to freelance, a local photographer whom I have a great deal of respect for met with me for coffee and, over the conversation, strongly suggested I join the National Association of Press Photographers if, for no other reason, than to participate in the monthly clip contest. Which I promptly did.
I realize that contests are their own thing and that you can’t take much away from how well your photos do or don’t do in them. Having said that, winning is certainly better than losing—and even though I’ve lost far more than I’ve won, it’s still fascinating to see your name in the standings in the same list as professionals whose work you’ve followed for years.
https://competitions.nppa.org/monthly-news-clip-contest/sports-action/2019-11-november/central/52141/
