Analogiesº5 — Photography Open Call Survival Guide
From an experienced indie curator: 9 tips to make your submission shine
My passion for photography extends beyond taking pictures; for over a decade, I've been dedicated to curating and bringing photographic projects to life. The insights I've gained through years of experience are now yours, in the form of tips to transform your open call submissions.
Since Ephemere's inception in 2023, we've been hosting open calls, and we're currently on our seventh. These tips have been brewing in my mind for some time, and with our current Duality through diptychs open call nearing its deadline, now feels like the perfect time to finally share them.
This isn't your typical, sugar-coated guide. I'm proclaiming it as Ephemere's Open Call Survival Guide—though it's more than just that. Consider it your bible, your roadmap, or whatever metaphor resonates with you! Because, let's be honest, we're planning many more open calls in the future, and you'll want these tips handy.
More importantly, these guidelines will propel you not just in acing Ephemere’s future open calls, but also in navigating the wider creative landscape, from portfolio reviews to grant applications and beyond. So read on!
Level Up Your Open Call Submissions: 9 Tips from the Trenches
1. Read the Guidelines: They're Not Suggestions
This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many submissions miss the mark simply because the guidelines weren't read carefully. The guidelines are there because they need to be followed. If we didn't want them followed, we wouldn't have them in the first place. You want to submit? Read the f****** guidelines. (Sorry, had to channel my inner Tyler Durden there.)
In Essence: Before you start preparing your submission, read the guidelines thoroughly. Pay attention to:
Theme: Ensure your work aligns with the theme of duality.
Submission Process: Understand the steps involved in submitting your work.
Deadlines: Don't miss the final submission date!
2. Technical Specifications: Non-Negotiable
When we're planning a printed publication, image size, file type, and dimensions are non-negotiable. We need high-resolution images that meet our exact specifications to ensure the best possible print quality.
To be blunt, if we ask for JPEG and you send a TIFF, why? We receive hundreds, sometimes thousands, of images per open call. We don't have the manpower to reformat or change file types. Unfortunately, those that don't follow the specifications are simply ignored.
Essentially: Double-Triple-check the technical requirements in the guidelines. Make sure you get the right:
Image Size: 3000 pixels on the longest edge
File Size: Not more than 20MB per image
File Type: JPEG
Resolution: 300 dpi
3. File Naming Conventions: My Personal Pet Peeve
This might seem like a small detail, but proper file naming is crucial for organization and efficiency, especially when dealing with hundreds and even thousands of submissions.
Imagine sorting through files named "IMG_001.jpg," "Untitled.jpg," or "Photo 1.jpeg." It's a logistical nightmare! It sends me into a Monica Geller-level frenzy. Honestly, if you can't follow this simple rule, it makes me wonder if you've read any of the guidelines. It's a major turn-off.
Therefore: Always follow the specific file naming instructions in the guidelines. For our Duality open call, we've specified: [FirstNameLastName_DiptychA1.jpg]. This will absolutely help us keep track of your work and ensure it's properly identified.
4. Attention to Detail: Common Sense Goes a Long Way
Word counts, character limits, name formatting, complete information – these might seem like tiny details, but they're all crucial. Following them saves lives… well, at least it saves my time and sanity.
If a form asks for specific information, especially if it's marked as required, please provide it carefully and correctly. You wouldn't believe how many submissions have misspelled names, email addresses, cities, and countries. It's basic common sense! These details are considered for the overall design, consistency, and communication for the publication.
Consequently: Treat every field in the submission form with care. Double-Triple-check your information and ensure it aligns with the guidelines.
5. Timing Your Submission: Early Birdies and Last-Minute Miracles
Whether you're an early or a last-minute submitter, the most important thing is to prioritize quality and accuracy.
Early Birdies: All the early birdies get the worm! If you prefer to get things done early, that's fantastic. But don't rush the preparation process. Take your time to double-check, even triple-check, your files and ensure they meet the technical specifications and that your submission aligns with the theme.
Last-Minute Miracles: If you tend to procrastinate, that's okay too. Just make sure you allocate enough time to thoroughly review the guidelines and prepare your submission. Panic submissions often lead to errors and missed details, which can unfortunately disqualify your work.
Ergo: Regardless of when you submit, focus on accuracy and quality. A well-prepared submission, even if submitted at the last minute, is far more likely to succeed than a rushed submission, no matter how early it arrives.
6. What Catches My Eye: Effort, Thoughtfulness, and Detail
As the lead curator at Ephemere, I've seen countless submissions. And while stunning imagery is always a plus, what truly catches my eye is the effort, thoughtfulness, and attention to detail that goes into a submission.
Here's a little secret: Submissions that meticulously follow all the guidelines, even if the images themselves aren't technically flawless, often stand out. It shows me that you've taken the time to understand the project and respect the process.
That's also why we do Submission Highlights on Instagram. It's a way to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of those who put their heart into their work, even if they don't make it to the final selection.
Especially when we receive well-thought project descriptions or image descriptions, which are often just optional fields, we really appreciate it. I read them! Everything you submit lives in our archives; they aren't deleted. These are gems we gather with each open call. Your images and words are kept confidentially, and they are not submitted in vain.
7. Images and Text: Harmony and Storytelling
Of course, the image itself is paramount. For this Duality open call, I'm looking for visual harmony between the two images in your diptych. Does the pair make me zoom in, wanting to see more? That's a good sign! But beyond the visuals, consider adding a title and description.
While some believe a picture is worth a thousand words, sometimes it needs them. A striking photograph without a story can feel lacking. Conversely, a simple image with a compelling story can be transformative. I highly recommend providing text to accompany your images, as it can elevate your submission.
Thus: Consider how your images work together visually and narratively. If you have the option, add a title and description to enhance the viewer's understanding.
8. The Curatorial Decision: Impactful Images and Adherence to Guidelines
As a curator, I must strike a balance between the visual impact of the submissions and their adherence to the guidelines. While stunning images are undoubtedly important, they are not the only factor I consider.
Submissions that disregard the guidelines, even if visually compelling, create an unfair playing field for those who have taken the time to follow every instruction. Respecting the guidelines demonstrates professionalism and dedication to the craft, which are qualities I value highly.
Ultimately, my decision rests on a combination of visual merit and a commitment to the process.
In short: Strong images are essential, but following the guidelines is equally important. It shows respect for the process and a commitment to your craft.
9. Ask Questions: But Choose Wisely
Asking questions is encouraged, but there are two types: the stupid kind and the relevant kind.
Stupid Questions: These are the ones that are answered directly in the guidelines. They're annoying, frankly, and defeat the purpose of having guidelines in the first place. If you haven't read the guidelines, don't ask.
Relevant Questions: These are the ones that help clarify something that's genuinely unclear or that might improve the guidelines. For example, someone recently asked about submitting instant film photos with borders. This made me realize we needed to make an exception.
Even though I strive to be the Elle Woods of open calls, I'm not perfect! I make mistakes and I'm always learning. You have the right to ask questions if something is unclear, doesn't work, or doesn't make sense. It's all about communication.
Ultimately: Think and read again before you ask. If the answer is in the guidelines, save everyone some time and find it yourself.
So, there you have it – nine tips straight from the trenches. Some might call them blunt, even harsh, but consider it tough lovin’. My aim isn't to discourage, but to prepare you for the larger creative world.
Mastering the art of following guidelines in an open call is a foundational skill. Think of it as a stepping stone to more demanding endeavors: portfolio reviews, grant applications, exhibition proposals, even photobook publications. These opportunities often require meticulous attention to detail and a willingness to embrace the 'painstaking process.'
Following instructions isn't about jumping through hoops for fun; it's about demonstrating your commitment to your craft and your respect for the collaborative process. It signals your readiness to grow, to improve, and to contribute meaningfully. If you can conquer these challenges, you're setting yourself up for success in all your future creative pursuits.
Now, on another note...
We've also received a number of very impressive applications for the co-curator position. I'm truly impressed with the quality of submissions. Applicants can expect to hear from me via email soon. In the meantime, please remember that the co-curator application period remains open until March 31st, the same deadline as the Open Call #7: Duality.
With 12 days left until the deadline, we've already received a fantastic array of diptychs. I'm truly impressed by the creativity and dedication I've seen so far. There's still plenty of time to catch up and make sure you've applied all the 9 tips above!
Submit Now
To those who have submitted and haven't received a reply within 7 days, it may mean that your submission has some errors, and it's taking time for me to review and respond to you. As the lead curator, I am personally checking all submissions one by one, so it takes time.
However, I'm proud to say that the vast majority of our submissions have followed the guidelines wonderfully. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to prepare their work carefully. I'm very excited to see more submissions and eventually create a beautiful publication that celebrates the power of duality. Thank you for your participation!
If you found these 9 tips useful, please don't forget to bookmark them for future reference when you join other open calls, and share them with your friends!