1 of 29

Minnesota 4-H

Photography Judges Training

Crystal Reith and Cora Rost

June 2023

2 of 29

Outline

Judges Database
Updates
Judging Practices for Youth Development
Judges Packet
Website Navigation
Practice Judging
Q&A

3 of 29

How to become a judge in the database

Section 1

4 of 29

How to become a judge in the database

Judges must be at least 19 years old and no longer eligible to enroll in 4-H
www.thedatabank.com
Follow prompts
OR paper option found at:

https://extension.umn.edu/fairs-events-and-training/judging-4-h-fairs-and-challenge-events#requirements-and-how-to-apply-1116060

5 of 29

Online training

All Minnesota 4-H judges are invited to take an online course at: https://umn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6RkLPcUZZgQmyRD
Download and print three handouts
45 minutes long

Creating high-quality 4-H conference judging experiences

All Minnesota 4-H judges are invited to take this online course.

Our job in 4-H is to build blue ribbon young people -- not blue ribbon projects! It's important for judges to know how best to interact with young people and how to help them learn and grow through this experience. For 4-H members, a judge is a very special person. In many cases members have spent significant time preparing their projects for exhibit. The judge at the fair or showcase event is there to help them reflect and apply what they have learned.

At the completion of this training, conference judges will be able to

Describe the domains of a high-quality youth program experience
Choose appropriate questions and responses when communicating as a 4-H judge
Guide a high-quality learning experience for young people

This training has three parts and will take about 45 minutes

Downloading and printing three handouts - 5 minutes
Viewing the Course Module "Creating Quality 4-H Conference Judging Experiences: A training for 4-H Judges" - 30-35 minutes

Specialist training

Some projects require specialist judging training. For example, horse project judging. After you have applied, a staff member will notify you if any special training is required.

6 of 29

Updates

Section 2

7 of 29

Premium book update

For safety, picture frames or glass are not allowed.
Photos should be mounted on a mat board or poster board using neutral colors (white, tan, gray or black). Do not use construction paper, colored paper or wrapping paper.
Under manipulation - NEW suggested softwares (all can be used on Android, iPhone, and iPad)-Snapseed-easy to use and does a nice job, Adobe Photoshop Express-good option for those wanting to grow into Photoshop, Pixir-2nd to 6th grades only, PicsArt Photo Studio-powerful photo and video editing app

8 of 29

Elements vs. Manipulation

Elements

This exhibit will focus on what makes a good photograph (composition, light, shutter speed, color, depth of field, leading lines, etc). Only select whole image edits or modifications are allowed in post-production. Post-production is any adjustment made after the photo is taken using editing software. Allowed whole image edits must be applied to the entire image and not specific areas of the photo. Allowed whole image edits include:

cropping
exposure correction
color saturation
contrast
sharpening
conversion to black & white

On-camera filters: a physical filter that attaches to the camera lens (neutral density, polarizer, various colors, etc) are allowed.

This exhibit will focus on what makes a good photograph (composition, light, shutter speed, color, depth of field, leading lines, � etc). Only select whole image edits or modifications are allowed in post-production. Post-production is any adjustment made � after the photo is taken using editing software. Allowed whole image edits must be applied to the entire image and not specific � areas of the photo. Allowed whole image edits include:

cropping
exposure correction
color saturation
contrast
sharpening
conversion to black & white

On-camera filters: a physical filter that attaches to the camera lens (neutral density, polarizer, various colors, etc) are allowed.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Photo Story:
Show a town’s history or a family history. This could include photos of historic buildings, old photos copied from the historical society or library, family or individual portraits, etc.
Develop a documentary of another of yours or a friend’s 4-H project or of your 4-H club’s community service project
Document environmental issues such as the plight of pollinators, pollution, soil erosion, or the steps taken to improve the environment
Present a day in the life of – farm or city youth, a local professional person such as a school nurse or a firefighter, law enforcement office, or other interesting personality
Exhibit a series of photos on how to make or do something
Common Theme or subject:
Display a series of 3 to 7 photos of a common subject such as people, buildings, landscapes, animals, seasons, action, nature, weather, close-ups, etc.
Showcase a Photographic Elements:
Display a series of 5 to 7 photos that illustrate some photographic element such as composition, lighting, shutter speeds, depth of field, color, contrast, cropping, etc.
Panorama:
Show a single image created in camera or a triptych (set of 3 photos intended to be used together) of several images created by moving the camera. A triptych may consist of separate images that are variants on a theme, or may be one larger image split into three.

9 of 29

Elements vs. Manipulation part 2

Manipulation

This exhibit will focus on using photography to show creatively edited photos and how photography is used in everyday life. Software editing is required for this category and may include:

layering
all digital filters (except black and white)
creative coloring
removing or adding objects
text additions
etc.

Entries in this category must involve editing with software such as Photoshop, Lightroom, IPhoto, Picasa, Gimp, Picmonkey, Pixi, Microsoft Publisher, etc.

This exhibit will focus on using photography to show creatively edited photos and how photography is used in everyday life. Software editing is required for this category and may include:

layering
all digital filters (except black and white)
creative coloring
removing or adding objects
text additions
etc.

Entries in this category must involve editing with software such as Photoshop, Lightroom, IPhoto, Picasa, Gimp, Picmonkey, Pixi, Microsoft

Publisher, etc.

NEW suggested softwares (all can be used on Android, iPhone, and iPad)-Snapseed-easy to use and does a nice job, Adobe Photoshop Express-good option for those wanting to grow into Photoshop, Pixir-2nd to 6th grades only, PicsArt Photo Studio-powerful photo and video editing app.

Please view the “Introduction to Photo Manipulation” slideshow for specific examples and explanations.

Stock photos are not allowed. A stock photo is a photo taken by another person (not yourself) who has licensed their photo for specific

uses by others. All images used in photo manipulation exhibits must have been taken by the exhibitor. Examples of images not allowed include: an image of space (taken by NASA) as the background of your photo or if you want a shark inserted into your composite image, you must take a photo of a shark.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Composite Photo: Multiple images combined into one image
Panoramas (overlapping areas of several photos and stitching them together in post-production)
the same person in multiple places within the photo
replacing the sky
Single Source Image Manipulation
acne removal, eye enhancement, teeth whitening, etc.
selective color manipulations (i.e. converting everything to black and white except items that are the same color red)
apply digital filters (other than black and white)
removing distractions in the background, etc.
Photo Series:
Make a series of 5 to 7 digitally edited photos that illustrate a common theme such as environmental issues, plight of pollinators, how to do something, etc.
Enlarged Photo:
Show a 5”x7” or 8”x10” print that has been digitally enhanced and illustrates software skills. An unaltered 4 x6” print must be attached to the back of the exhibit.
Publications:
Show calendars, brochures, posters that are created using computer software
Photo Novelties:
Display mugs, puzzles, blankets, or other media on which photos have been printed
Slide Show:
Make a compilation of photos with titles, voice-over or background music. For judging, exhibitors can show their exhibit on a 14” x 22” poster board, computer or tablet.

10 of 29

Judging Practices for Youth Development

Section 3

11 of 29

Conference Judging

A learning centered conversation between the judge and 4-H member
Enables the 4-H member to demonstrate and gain knowledge from his/her project learning experience
Provides an opportunity for the 4-H member to talk with a judge about his/her project learning for evaluation purposes

4-H General project Conference Judging is:

A participatory process; a learning centered conversation between the judge and 4-H member.
Enables the 4-H member to demonstrate and gain knowledge from his/her project learning experience.
Provides an opportunity for the 4-H member to talk with a judge about his/her project learning for evaluation purposes.

Overview

Conference judging of 4-H general projects differs from that of open class judging; the interview portion is as important as the exhibit itself. The judge, who is knowledgeable in the project area, determines a ribbon placing based on a combination of the exhibit as well as the project learning that the 4-H member shares during the interview. At this time the judge is able to observe, question, listen and challenge the 4-Her. Equal importance is placed on the exhibit and the interview; both components are worth 50% toward the ribbon placing. The judge offers encouraging and constructive feedback as well as suggestions on how to further explore the project area. Youth are also encouraged to ask questions of the judge during the conference judging experience.

Conference judging is exciting and fun for both the 4-Her and the judge. Youth participate in a safe, friendly environment and are able to establish a relationship with a caring adult. Valuing the youth over the exhibit itself is most important in a conference judging experience.

12 of 29

Youth program quality pyramid

13 of 29

Best judging experiences

Welcoming atmosphere
Reflection
Encouragement

There are three main things that you as judges can focus on to give the youth you work with the BEST of the quality experience in the short time you have with them. Those include a welcoming atmosphere, reflection and encouragement.

1. WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE

When the youth first meets the judge, he/she is full of a mixture of emotions such as stress, excitement, anxiety, and/or anticipation. At that moment, it is crucial to create a welcoming atmosphere in your judging space.

Greet youth immediately upon their arrival to your area.
Use welcoming non-verbal communication such as a warm tone of voice, a smile, eye contact and relaxed posture.
Lean forward as youth are speaking to show you are actively listening. Use silence, hearing, observing, self-control, encouragement, and remembering in your communication.
Arrange your judging area in a way that supports the items listed above.

2. REFLECTION

Reflection is the process of the youth reviewing, summarizing, and/or evaluating their project while talking with the judge.

As a judge, think of being like a mirror, reflecting back to the youth information to help he/she discover ways to see accomplishments and to improve. A respectful judging relationship includes celebrating the youth’s strengths and connecting with the individual.
Ask questions in a way that helps the youth reflect on strengths and weaknesses in their project learning. (Examples: “Tell me about what was most difficult.” “What did you learn the most about doing this project?”)

3. ENCOURAGEMENT

This is a teachable moment where youth are encouraged to take their project learning to a higher level.

Use open-ended questions to help youth process how to reach higher levels of project learning. (Examples: “How could you expand on your project?” “What could you do next with what you have learned by doing this project?” “What goals can you set to take your project to the next level?”)
Support all project work by using non-evaluative language. (Examples: “Yes, the cleanup project you worked on is a way to give back to the community.” “I can tell from your work on this project that...”) Use phrases such as “Good job”, “Way to go”, and “Nice work” a minimal amount.
Discuss what he/she may do differently if a similar project is attempted. Talk about what was learned and enjoyed through the project.

14 of 29

Sample questions

What can you tell me about your exhibit?
Why did you choose this for your project?
What did you learn?
How much did it cost to make this?
What do you want to do next?

Samples Questions for Conference Judging

Conference judging can be a bit intimidating, for 4-Hers as well as for the judge. Below is a list of questions a judge could use to lead the discussion with a 4-H member about their project.

What can you tell me about your exhibit?
Why did you choose this idea/item for your project exhibit?
How does this exhibit fit your project emphasis or content?
How does this project exhibit fit your interests?
How did you make this exhibit?
What choices did you make in putting this project together?
How much time, money, materials, efforts, skill did you use when preparing this exhibit?
How and where did you find the information and materials for this exhibit? How did you know your information was accurate, clear, complete, concise? Why did you feel this was important to know?
Why and how did you organize this exhibit? Did anyone help you with this exhibit, who?
What makes your exhibit attractive or eye-catching?
Have you ever done anything like this before? What have you done in this project before?
What have you learned by preparing this exhibit? What did you learn from your mistakes? How will you use this learning? What other activities could you do in this project area?
What do you enjoy most about this project area?
Do you think participating in this project area has helped you find a new hobby or possible career choice to explore? If so, what and how can you learn more?
What do you want to do next?
Any others you want to share??

15 of 29

What does a ribbon mean?

A Modified Danish System

The Minnesota 4-H Youth Development Program utilizes a modified Danish System (system where everyone receives a ribbon) for 4-H judging. Live animal exhibits are evaluated against each other, but general projects are judged on standards.

Grand Champion: The top exhibit as determined by the judge in a category, ie. Jr.(grade 3-5), Intermediate ( grade 6-8), Senior (grade 9+) market class, breeding class etc.

Reserve Champion: The second place exhibit as determined by the judge in a category, ie. Jr.(grade 3-5), Intermediate ( grade 6-8), Senior (grade 9+) market class, breeding class etc.

Purple/Honorable mention: The exhibit meets all standards. The exhibitor has shown a complete understanding of what, how and why the exhibit was done, and has a thorough knowledge of the subject. The exhibit and workmanship are extraordinary and need no improvement.

Blue: The exhibit meets most standards. The exhibitor can explain what, how and why the exhibit was done and has good knowledge of the subject. The exhibit is well organized and well done.

Red: The exhibit meets some standards. The exhibitor can somewhat explain what, how and why the exhibit was done and has a fair knowledge of the subject. Some improvements may be needed on the exhibit.

White: The exhibit meets few standards and lacks the quality of other exhibits. The exhibitor cannot adequately explain the what, how and why of the exhibit. Possibly they have overlooked a safety flaw. Improvement is needed in either the exhibit, the knowledge of the subject, or both.

Cloverbud: Cloverbud exhibitors and to recognize participation and achievement on a noncompetitive basis. Emphasis is placed on encouraging the child to share what they learned or liked about the project and develop their self-esteem and confidence.

16 of 29

Preparing for fair judging

Before judging day

Review letter sent from staff
Check the map
Review county premium book
Review project website or project evaluation sheet

Judging day

Letter and map from staff
Any necessary reference materials
Any specialty tools to help judge project areas
Notebook
Suggested judging questions

Other considerations

Fan and extension cord
Chair pad
Something for shade
Any extra dietary needs

Before Judging day

Review letter sent from County Extension Educator
Check the map for how to get to the judging location

Is there any road construction that will change your route
Know which building you will check in at on the fairgrounds

Review county premium book sections you will judge
Review the judges' quality tool kit: z.umn.edu/judgestoolkit
Review the project website: z.umn.edu/4hproject
Review project evaluation sheet (found on the project website under fair judging)

Day of Judging

Bring all communication County Extension Educator sent
Map to judging location & building you’ll be in (Extension Educator should provide this)
Any reference materials to help you make decisions
Any specialty tools to help judge project areas (tape measure, magnifying glass, etc.)
Notebook
Questions you can ask youth

Other considerations

Fan with 15-20 foot extension cord
Chair pad (most chairs will be metal folding chairs)
Something for shade (sometimes judges are set up outside)

Sunscreen

Any extra dietary needs that may not be provided

17 of 29

Judges Packet

Section 4

18 of 29

Judges Packet

Photographic cropping corners
Two transparencies that show rule of thirds
Photography cheat sheet

19 of 29

Website Navigation

Section 5

20 of 29

4-H Photography Project Website

https://extension.umn.edu/projects-and-more/4-h-photography-project

21 of 29

4-H Photography Project Website part 2

22 of 29

4-H Photography Project Website part 3

23 of 29

Social Media

24 of 29

Practice Judging

Section 6

25 of 29

Manipulation

26 of 29

Manipulation part 2

27 of 29

Elements

28 of 29

Elements part 2

29 of 29

Questions?

Photos printed on Canvas
AI

Contact: fourhphoto@umn.edu

Survey QR Code & URL

https://forms.gle/5Vqc2XeGMgKo5xC39

The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This document is available in alternative formats upon request. Direct requests to 612-624-2116.