Tips and tricks for taking a winning big buck photo
The WVDNR’s annual Big Buck Photo Contest is the perfect opportunity for you to showcase your hunting skills and win exciting prizes. But standing out in the contest requires more than just harvesting a big buck — you must also take a great photo! Luckily, all you need to take an award-winning photo is your smartphone. Tips are outlined in this guide.
Composition Tips for a Standout Photo
A well-composed photo can make all the difference in how your entry stands out in the contest. From lighting and angles to framing and background, the tips in this section will help you capture a photo that draws attention to you and your trophy buck while honoring the hunting experience.
Focus on Lighting
Natural lighting is essential to achieving a sharp, clear photo. Try to take your photo outdoors during daylight hours and avoid harsh midday sunlight that can create unsightly shadows. Early morning or late afternoon light, known as “golden hour,” is ideal for adding warmth and dimension to your shot. Consider using a small flashlight or headlamp to illuminate you and your buck softly if photographing in low light.
Framing and Background
A well-framed photo keeps the focus on you and your harvest. Choose a simple and uncluttered background, and watch out for vehicles, buildings or gear piles in the frame if they don’t add anything to the photo. Trees and fields can create a natural background that enhances the image without detaining you or your buck.
Consider the rule of thirds for balanced composition: imagine a grid over your photo with two vertical and two horizontal lines, dividing it into nine equal sections. Positioning yourself and the deer where the lines intersect often creates a balanced and professional-looking photo.
Showcase the Deer with Dignity
When photographing a deer after a successful hunt, it is essential to present the animal with respect. Position it naturally, doing your best to hide wounds or blood to maintain a clean appearance. When you’re ready to take your photo, stand or kneel by your buck. Make sure you and the deer are fully visible in the photo’s frame and don’t forget to smile!
Be Creative
Your Big Buck Photo Contest entry is a chance to show off your unique style and personality, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Experiment with different perspectives, like taking an overhead shot with a drone for a one-of-a-kind view or opting. Remember, a creative photo captures your trophy buck and tells the story of your hunting adventure.
Submitting Your Big Buck Photo
When you’re ready to submit, following a few simple guidelines will help ensure your photo makes the best possible impression. From selecting the correct file format to adding a compelling story about your hunt, these steps will make entering the contest easy and boost your chances of success.
File Format and Quality
Use a high-resolution setting on your camera or smartphone to ensure your photo is clear and impactful. Photos should be submitted as a standard JPEG and be large enough to remain sharp when viewed on larger screens. If using a smartphone, avoid zooming, as this can reduce the quality and composition of the image. Avoid heavy-handed edits and applying filters to your photo, and please refrain from cropping in too tight.
Follow Submission Guidelines
To enter, submit a photo of yourself and the deer harvested in West Virginia during an open 2023–2024 hunting season on the official Big Buck Photo Contest entry form. Be sure to include the 13-digit DNR-issued game check number for the deer and a brief hunt account (up to 500 words). Consider adding a few descriptive details to the narrative, like the number of antler points, the weather or any memorable moments from the hunt. A compelling narrative makes your entry stand out and helps judges connect with the story behind the photo.
Want to see what a winning photo looks like? Explore the trophy walls for 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Buy your license and deer stamps today
The contest entry period runs from Nov. 26 to Dec. 20, 2024. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your skills, prized buck, and love of the sport! Make sure you’re ready by purchasing your hunting license and deer stamps before the season starts. Review the contest rules, prepare your camera, and capture and share a winning shot that will make your hunting experience this year unforgettable.