Black and White – The image is made up of black, white and variations of grey ranging from absolute black to absolute white. The image will not have any other tint or colour so pay attention to the tonal contrast and range.

Nature – Aligned with the PSNZ definition, Nature photography records all branches of natural history except anthropology and archaeology.  This includes all aspects of the physical world, both animate and inanimate, that have not been made or modified by humans.

• Nature images must convey the truth of the scene that was photographed. A well-informed person should be able to identify the subject of the image and be satisfied that is has been presented honestly and that no unethical practices have been used to control the subject or capture the image.  Images that directly or indirectly show any human activity that threatens the life or welfare of a living organism are not allowed.
• The most important part of a Nature image is the nature story it tells. High technical standards are expected and the image must look natural.
• Objects created by humans, and evidence of human activity, are allowed in Nature images only when they are a necessary part of the Nature story.
• Photographs of human-created hybrid plants, cultivated plants, feral animals, domesticated animals, human-created hybrid animals and mounted or preserved zoological specimens are not allowed.
• Images taken with subjects under controlled conditions, such as zoos, are allowed.
• Controlling live subjects by chilling, anaesthetic or any other method of restricting natural movement for the purpose of a photograph is not allowed.

Only scientific names, common names or descriptive titles shall be used.  (Refer to PSNZ website for more details or ask a committee member).

All Alone – This theme encourages you to convey the emotional and visual aspects of solitude, whether it’s a solitary figure in an expansive landscape, an empty urban street, or a moment of quiet introspection that expresses the beauty and complexity of being alone.

Curves and Lines – An image where curves and lines play a prominent role. Whether it’s the gentle arc of a winding road, the elegant curvature of a flower petal, the sleek lines of modern architecture, or the natural curves of a landscape, the goal is to highlight how these shapes influence composition and create visual interest.

Creative – Let your imagination roam, as anything goes for this category.  Consider ICM, HDR, post processing, composites, abstract or whatever you wish, as long as you the owner of the images.  The title and the image should tell a story.

Ground Level – This is to challenge you to shoot images from or near the ground capturing perspectives and details that are typically observed from a low vantage point, right at or near the surface of the ground. 

Steps and Stairs – This is a chance to explore the geometry, rhythm, and textures of any type of steps or stairs, and their role in connecting different levels, guiding movement, or shaping the space around them.

Floral – An image showing flowers in their natural state or harvested flowers in a way that celebrates the beauty and characteristics of the flower.  The image may be of whole flowers, parts of flowers or arrangements of flowers where it is clear the subject of the image is the flower.