For nearly four years readers have been sharing photographs and stories on a range of topics and assignments via GuardianWitness. Your images and experiences have been informing us about the world where you live – from news events to lifestyle issues. Now, our picture editors have a new challenge for you.
Every two weeks, the picture desk are going to set a topical theme and will be choosing the best of your photos to publish in an online gallery. They will also share with you what they admire about the images that have been selected as well as highlight some of the skills necessary to develop as a photographer – and will look forward to seeing your progress along the way.
You have until Thursday 23 February to upload your images. We will publish the gallery for this assignment on Friday February 24 and set out next assignment on Monday 27.
What makes a good photograph?
Fiona Shields, the Guardian’s head of photography, explains:
This is a question I’m asked frequently. There isn’t a single answer, as each photograph exists within it’s own context, but there are some indicators to bear in mind.
Firstly, strong geometry can lend a powerful dynamic as can vivid blocks of colour or contrasted black and white. Attention to detail and cropping can help to make sense of a complex scene. Look for wit and incongruity or a non-choreographed moment. An animated shot can be more engaging than a static image. Use post production techniques with care and above all, consider focus.
How to upload your photographs
To upload your images via GuardianWitness click the blue “contribute” buttons on this article. Please upload the highest resolution image you have – this will help us display the photograph in our gallery and will also allow our picture editors to consider featuring some of the best images in print.
- GuardianWitness is the home of readers’ content on the Guardian. Contribute your video, pictures and stories, and browse news, reviews and creations submitted by others. Posts will be reviewed prior to publication.
- This assignment is aimed at amateur photographers from around the world.
