Your Best Shot: The Rules

Your Best Shot Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I enter?

A: Send digital images -- JPEG files of up to 1MB -- to YourBestShot@bonniercorp.com.

Q: How many photographs can I enter each month?

A: You may submit up to 5 digital images each month.

Q: Do you only accept "straight" photos, or can I manipulate my images?

A: Either is fine but be sure to tell us what you did. We expect you to make your photos look as good as you can through ordinary techniques such as cropping, color correction, and contrast adjustments. If you're submitting a composite image, please inform us when you send it. But if you're more into photo illustration, check out our annual Digital Wizard contest instead.

Q: How exactly should I name my files?

A: Please use your name as your file name, and if you're making submitting multiple files, number them consecutively. So if your name is Paul Jones and you're sending three photos, name your files pauljones1.jpg, pauljones2.jpg, and pauljones3.jpg.

Q: What kinds of photos win?

A: Our editors love all kinds of photography, so take a look at our web galleries of Your Best Shot winners and finalists. We want to see the best you have to offer. But we don't publish nudes, so keep it clean.

Q: Are there any special file requirements?

A: Yes, if accepted for publication, a 3MP or higher (9MB file size, uncompressed) image will be required. The bigger the better. Click here for more instructions. Also, you can help us keep track of your submission by naming your files after yourself (see the next question).

Q: Can I send slides or prints?

A: No. You can only e-mail digital images.

Q: Will you acknowledge receipt of my entry?

A: Sorry, but with the large volume of entries, that is not possible.

Q: What can I win?

A: If your photo is selected for First Place you will receive $300; $200 for Second Place; $100 for Third Place; and $50 for Honorable Mention. And your photo will be published in Popular Photography magazine and may be showcased in a gallery on the Pop Photo website.

Q: Are there any other chances to be selected?

A: Yes! Your photo could be selected for The Fix, a feature that shows how to make good pictures even better. In that case, you will receive $100. If we run a small version of your photo in the magazine -- in a camera's LCD screen, for instance -- we'll give you a photo credit but no payment. Also, some runner-up photos may be showcased on the Pop Photo website. There is no prize money for that.

Q: What information should I send with the photos?

A: Your name, address, phone number, and e-mail address. Also, any technical information you can supply about the photo -- camera, lens, settings, film, software, and printer. Submitting a composite? Tell us! If you win and we need more material, we will contact you.

Q: Is there anything else I should know?

A: Yes! It's all in the "Official Rules."