Photographic

Through the co-operation of the Executive Spike this year was able to offer a prize of one guinea for the best photograph submitted. The standard and number of the entries was such that we hope that this competition will become an annual fixture. The prize this year was awarded to Mr. R. A. Davison, and photos by Messrs. G. E. Scott and L. Withy were placed second and third respectively. The following are the remarks of Mr. J. W. Chapman-Taylor, who very kindly judged the entries:—

"Pictorial photographs appeal to us in two ways. We find satisfaction in the convincing truthfulness of a good photograph to begin with. But chiefly we joy in a noble theme skilfully chosen, justly appreciated and well rendered by a fellow man. No sophistries are needed to justify good photography. In this attitude of mind I approach the task of judging these photographs.

"Turere, Orongorongo,' I place first. A beautiful bush scene is depicted under an interesting effect of light and though a difficult subject to photograph it is rendered one might say perfectly. The composition is good and it appeals to me as a picture one could live with and continue to enjoy. I can find no fault with it,

"Second place I give to 'Pathway, Paekakariki.' It is a charming rural scene exceedingly well rendered. To appreciate the value of such a scene requires an artist's eye. For this reason combined with its good technique I place it above some more striking subjects not so well photographed. This picture distinctly stimulates the imagination.

"Titahi Bay' must I think be placed third. Its material is very beautiful and well arranged but not so well rendered. The headland is too black and empty of gradation. The composition is good and the sky beautifully rendered but the water lacks crispness and detail."

Speaking of the other entries Mr. Chapman-Taylor also made the following remarks:—

"Students should endeavour to work big in photography as in drawing. Hear O Artist! the picture you make must be one. You will command attention only when you say one thing on one piece of paper—boldly, strongly, though perhaps with the greatest delicacy."