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Tell us What You Want to Win This Year….and Win!

By Scott on Tuesday, February 5th, 2008 at 6:03 am | updates.

pstvprize.jpg

OK, so you saw the B&H Photo contest winner above from last year, but what are we going to give away as the grand prize for our Photoshop User TV photography contest this year? That up to you!

Come up with a really cool, inventive idea for a contest, post it here on the blog, and if we pick your idea, I’ll get you an autographed copy of Joe McNally’s blockbuster “The Moment it Clicks.”

But don’t just put “Give me a D3, or a Mark III;” come up with something really creative and fun, that would make a great contest. Think “Dream assignment” or some amazing package of gear (but not one that’s going to bankrupt the show). Whatever it is; come up with something that makes you say, “Now that would be really cool!” Hey, ya never know! (Ask Rachael Cardella). :-)

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    1. #1

      A dream trip to South Africa’s Kruger National Park - were you are able to photograph the big 5 in their back yard all year round - with a dream safari Hoilday thrown in.

      Air Fare, accomadation and spending money thrown in.

      To win this prize - the entrants must photograph the big 5 either in a zoo or natural setting or any setting in a new and unsual manner - the best photo of nature and the big 5 wins the grand prize. The ulitmate photograph safari in the Kruger Park.

      Raymond Storger on February 5th, 2008 at 6:30 am
    2. #2

      Hey Scott,

      I think sending them on assignment is the best idea. (But perhaps I’m bias - being someone who loves to travel!)

      My idea is to send them to three contrasting environments. If they are into landscape photography, send them to the Moutains, Sea and Rivers. If they are into portorates, send them to a Pro Studio, a Beach and a on-site studio.

      Also, another fantastic idea would be to come to NAPP HQ! Just to meet all you guys and spend a few days with you.

      Keep up the good work!

      Mark - Australia

      Mark on February 5th, 2008 at 6:33 am
    3. #3

      What about an underwater photography trip to some good place for this (red sea, somewhere in the pacific…). You would throw in flights, hotel, diving initiation if necessary, a photography instructor and probably some gear rental. And as an added bonus, the winner would get an underwater housing for his camera to take back home.

      I don’t know about you, but I would really love to do that!

      nattfodd on February 5th, 2008 at 6:52 am
    4. #4

      Hi Scott. A “Dream Trip” for me would be a trip to any of the national parks in the US with Moose Peterson! You could top that off by providing a Nikon 400mm f/2.8G ED AF-S (VR II) Telephoto Auto Focus Nikkor Lens to help capture those great wildlife pictures.
      Thanks and I appreciate the work you and others do at keeping us informed.
      Bob - Mogadore, OH

      Bob Rutan on February 5th, 2008 at 6:53 am
    5. #5

      Probably doesn’t affect me as I’m from overseas but…..

      I’d love a trip to Adobe HQ to have a look at the development teams that are responsible for Lightroom, Elements and Photoshop, and to get each of them to write their own personal favourite shortcut or tip for me.

      I think it would be ace to get a behind the scenes look at what is going on and learn from some of the guys at the cutting edge of product development.

      Stewart Brinn on February 5th, 2008 at 6:57 am
    6. #6

      What about a complete Photoshop World Experience?
      The winner will receive airfare, room at the host hotel, and free pass to Photoshop World including the pre conference activities and after-parties and a bag with all the Photoshop World / NAPP, hats, t-shirts, pens, etc. that you can think of.

      The winner would also receive an extension of their NAPP membership (how long an extension depends on how generous you’re feeling).

      In addition, each day the winner would receive a signed copy of one of your books (the winner should be able to choose from a menu provided to him/her).

      Finally, the winner would receive a new copy of Lightroom or CS3 (their choice) for Windows or Mac (their choice).

      Bryan Whitehead on February 5th, 2008 at 7:07 am
    7. #7

      I want to spend a full day in the “real life” of Scott Kelby, like “the Apprentice” I want to know how he does it “all”, from running NAPP to honing Photoshop and photography skills, to hobnobbing with the coolest guys this side of photography and having tremendous fun doing it.

      Tim Vailoces on February 5th, 2008 at 7:17 am
    8. #8

      Scott, Like many here I think that the prize I would like most is a chance to get time with you, Dave, Matt, Corey and RC but focused on shooting and improving our camera, photoshop and design skills. Fly the winner down to Tampa for a week. Get Adobe to throw in the complete CS Box set and I think I’d trade in my dear old mother to win (hey, she’s had a good life)

      Mark Segal on February 5th, 2008 at 7:30 am
    9. #9

      Hey Mr. Kelby, it’s cool what you are doing, asking for other people’s advice so that it’s not just the same person’s ideas.
      Idea 1: It would be cool if someone could win some time in a studio. You could have some lighting wiz, (Joe McNally?) come and show them the ropes. After it’s over, you let them keep the strobes, softboxes, lighttands, light meters and pocket wizards etc…

      Idea 2: It would also be cool to have someone win some time with a model and go shoot on location somewhere. You could have Jo McNally (this time HAS to be Joe) go over the Nikon CLS system and about off camera flash in general. After it’s over, let them keep the flashes, stands, gels, snoots, etc…

      These are my thoughts.

      Kyle fenton on February 5th, 2008 at 7:35 am
    10. #10

      Scott,
      The above ideas are great. How about a second contest for our servicemen and women. Have them send their best picture of their foreign duty and the winner gets flown home to visit their family or you fly their family to see them, and throw in some cool photo gear, too. If you do this, I will contribute $1000 myself to the prize.
      Thanks,
      Martin Howard

      Martin on February 5th, 2008 at 7:53 am
    11. #11

      Kyle beat me to it … i was going to suggest the studio idea too.

      A day in a fully equiped studio (perhaps this one ? http://www.scottkelby.com/blog/2007/archives/724) , with all the top notch pro gear to use and a professional coach like Scott or Joe to learn from. Perhaps have some professional models too. The experience and what you learned on that day, is the most valuable gift to take home !

      bruno waes on February 5th, 2008 at 7:55 am
    12. #12

      Have a photo contest on the theme of “Light or Dark” submitting one image for each subject.

      Winner receives a lighting kit for their camera, e.g. 2 SB-800’s and flash commander for Nikon or 2 580EX2’s and an ST-E2 for Canon plus a couple of reflectors. The bonus being getting shown how to use it by either Scott or Joe McNally.

      Scott Wiggins on February 5th, 2008 at 8:17 am
    13. #13

      I would like to win a trip to hang with Matt rocking the house Kloskowski, and Scott:)

      Or a canon 600mm lens:)

      Brad Styron on February 5th, 2008 at 8:17 am
    14. #14

      How about you get to be on Photoshop TV? Maybe go outside the studio on this one (with Scott, Matt, Dave, Joe, or whoever) and do a special on location shoot. Then bring the images back to the studio and edit them on PSTV. I think that is something worth fighting for.

      Pete

      Pete on February 5th, 2008 at 8:18 am
    15. #15

      Scott -

      My idea is to have a dream team of photographers (Ziser, Peterson, McNally, etc.) spend a extended weekend with the winner down around NAPP and each ne teach their specialty for awhile and then get some prize from each. For example David Ziser loves his QFlash, so he teaches some wedding stuff and awards the QFlash, McNally awards a softbox system, Peterson shows his gradient filtering and awards that - and then the winner sticks around for the next taping of Photoshop User TV.

      Chris Barnes on February 5th, 2008 at 8:27 am
    16. #16

      Maybe the competition should be split into two options, 1 for US residents and 1 for international.

      The US residents could visit the studio for NAPP and get the McNally weekend.

      International residents could get a year subscription to Kelby Training + $1000 at B&H photo (unless some of the NAPP guys want to come to Australia? - I will be happy supply the accommodation!).

      Both great prizes and all us non-US photographers can get *almost* as good a prize!

      Mark Runge on February 5th, 2008 at 8:54 am
    17. #17

      A photo workshop! With the Mr. Kelby himself.

      dav.d daniels on February 5th, 2008 at 8:58 am
    18. #18

      I see a couple of trends here. First, we want people - you and McNally seem to be popular picks. Before I started reading my comments, my initial inclination was to suggest some one on one time with you; however, that’s not apparently not going to get me the best original idea here.

      With that in mind, consider the second point. We want to learn. While a day or so with you, McNally, Peterson or whoever would be an awesome experience in and of itself, let’s take it up a notch or two. I like the Photoshop World idea, but I’m thinking about the gift that keeps on giving the whole year - kind of like Cousin Eddie’s take on the jelly of the month club. How about throwing in a one year (or more) subscription to Kelby Training?

      I can’t think of a better combo. The winner gets some one-on-one time with you and whoever else you can wrangle up. After you and the dream team ignite the creative spark, you’re not sending them home without further guidance. The winner gets a whole year of Kelby Training to keep that spark burning. That, sir, is one better than the jelly of the month club.

      Eric on February 5th, 2008 at 9:06 am
    19. #19

      1. I’d like to attend a workshop where you are teaching (like in santa fe or on the road somewhere great)
      2. I’d like a Nikon d3 to shoot with or one of those cool new Nikon lenses to shoot with my d300
      3. I’d like to spend a day with Scott at work.
      4. I’d like a day with Joe, he’s amazing, did a photoshop safari with him in boston and he is truly a great guy
      5. I’d like a new cool epson printer, a set of inks or that exhibition paper you are talking about.
      6. I’d like a wacom tablet, one of the cool cintiq (sp?)
      7. I’d like to be your assistant for a day or two or a week.
      8. I’d like to form a NAPP group and combine photography and walking on a Susan B. Komen Walk for the cure, in a great location like Boston, San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle or Phoenix.

      I’d like any of the above, but mostly #8.

      janet on February 5th, 2008 at 9:13 am
    20. #20

      Hi Scott,

      I think that the idea of sending people on assignment is really good but I would add a twist. I would pick x finalists and those finalists would go on assignment/class. The assignment/class should go somewhere interesting to photo and the assignment should be to do something unique with the Photography/Photoshop work there. Also, in order to be finalist - the contestants don’t just submit a flat jpeg. They submit a full PSD this allows the judges to see the Photoshop work done to create the entry. After all, this is about Photoshop as well as photography.

      JPO

      Joe O'C on February 5th, 2008 at 9:28 am
    21. #21

      Could I just be the “bag” girl and hold your camera for you???? ;-)

      Sara on February 5th, 2008 at 9:30 am
    22. #22

      It goes without saying that any great package would be simply mediocre if it didn’t include a free membership to www.kelbytraining.com

      Brian on February 5th, 2008 at 9:30 am
    23. #23

      Idea # 1:
      How about a trip to a DLWS event? This will give the winner the opportunity to learn from the best in Moose Peterson, Laurie Excell and Joe McNally. As a surprise, why don’t you Scott Kelby show up for the event too. This will allow for the winner to get an upclose experience with the best photographers and the opportunity to learn from the best in Photoshop, Lightroom, and Capture NX.

      This would include: Admission to DLWS Event, airfare, meals and accomodations.

      One of my dreams is to attend a DLWS event as it would allow me to expand my knowledge in photography and post processing. One year I am going to make it happen.

      Idea #2:
      How about an opportunity to intern at NAPP for a week. This will allow the winner to learn about the inner workings of NAPP such as the production of Photoshop TV, how to make videos of Photoshop Tutorials for the web and how the Layers and Photoshop User Magazines are put together for production. On top of this, give the winner the opportunity to go out on a photoshoot with either Scott Kelby, Matt Kloskowski or David Cross or all of them. Lastly, provide the winner with a day of learning with Lightroom and Photoshop from Scott Kelby, Matt Kloskowski or David Cross .

      This would include: Airfaire, transportation, meals and accomodations.

      chris on February 5th, 2008 at 9:31 am
    24. #24

      Idea # 1:
      My idea for a contest would be to take a photograph you took and do your best post processing using Lightroom. Have it done in Color and Black & White.

      Idea # 2:
      Come up with a new preset that everyone can use in Lightroom? Show the before picture and after picture. Explain what settings were used to create that preset.

      chris on February 5th, 2008 at 9:35 am
    25. #25

      Hi Scott,

      I’d like to spend a week with you, Dave and Matt and see how you guys go about doing your GREAT stuff … personal tutoring! :-). Also, a nice new Mac laptop with Lightroom and Photoshop CS3 installed.

      Thanks

      Dennis

      Dennis Zito on February 5th, 2008 at 9:40 am
    26. #26

      Since a trip around the world may be a bit much, how about the next time you do training in Hawaii, the winner comes along for a weekend.

      Also, another idea is winning a photo workshop with an award winning a photographer. Many great photographers have workshops (I just recently signed up for a workshop with Steve McCurry). Meeting an award winning photographer and picking his brain is a dream come true to most.

      One last idea –how about a day with Scott Kelby and Joe McNallan on a photo shoot –wow!

      Magdalena Soszka on February 5th, 2008 at 9:40 am
    27. #27

      How about an “office make-over” including maybe the best computer for processing your photos, a cool cintiq wacom tablet, the latest and greatest printer, and some of the neat plug ins out there for doing your projects. That’s what would really help me so I have more time to get out and take the pictures.

      Syd Johnson on February 5th, 2008 at 9:45 am
    28. #28

      Hi Scott,

      I absolutely love travel photography and exploring the world, but unfortunately cant always afford it! Since I’m sure many photographers are in the same boat, I think a great photo assignment would be to create an image that captures your home state. And in return, the coolest prize for me would be a place on one of those incredible cruising through life cruises that includes a private training session with one of the amazing teachers/photographers on the trip.

      Karen on February 5th, 2008 at 9:51 am
    29. #29

      Scott,

      A tie in idea to Bryan Whitehead’s — a morning to evening Photo Safari with a noted team of photographers (Kelby, McNally, Trapp, Peterson, Ziser) all gear provided for the day and a BIg discount on purchase of that gear.

      steve on February 5th, 2008 at 9:51 am
    30. #30

      Hello Scott,

      I love to photograph my kids. Mostly I like to photograph them in action and playing there favorite sports. My wish would be a lesson on sports photography. Something along the lines of three events. Maybe a local youth soccer game, baseball game or football game, Then one shooting indoors, like basketball or volleyball. Lastly, a trip to a major league event to learn how the pro’s do it on the sidelines. Of course some fast glass to go along with the learning experience might be required. Just a thought.

      Thanks again for all of your contributions to people like me who do this for a hobby and the fun of it.

      Cheers!

      Roque Matagulay on February 5th, 2008 at 9:54 am
    31. #31

      Hi Scott!

      When I read your post, immediately the back cover of your “Digital Photography Book” and the description of your approach came into my mind. Well, I hope it’s the same in the german and english version:-)

      Therefore, I’d appreciate having you as a personal coach for a week-end and providing me with all your secrets. Additionally, it would be nice, if Nikon or Canon provided the professional gear for that purpose.

      However, being international, a free one-year subscription to Kelby Training, as Mark suggested, would be a good start, or even add-on:-)

      Heike P. on February 5th, 2008 at 9:54 am
    32. #32

      Why not a SO YOU THINK YOU CAN TEACH PHOTOSHOP contest. People send in a video recorded tutorial or tip. Best one gets to go on the show, do the tutorial, and then hang out at NAPP Studios for a day getting some Photography tips.

      Adam Kaiser on February 5th, 2008 at 10:01 am
    33. #33

      Hi,

      I would love to win a Photoshop World package. It would include airfare, room at the host hotel, and free pass to Photoshop World including and all the parties and pre-conference activities.

      Or maybe Apple gift certificate. Everyone loves to upgrade their computer equipment.

      For me that would be great!!

      Thanks,

      Marie-Soleil

      Marie-Soleil on February 5th, 2008 at 10:16 am
    34. #34

      My first dream win would be a mentorship, either with a photographer or at NAPP. I knew that I should’ve woken up earlier.

      Other ideas:

      - A trip to Canon, Nikon, and/or Wacom headquarters to get a behind the sceens look at everything. All expenses paid. Lunch with Russel Brown would be great!

      - Lifetime memberships to Kelby Training or NAPP.

      - Scott’s recommended gear give-away. I’ve never seen your lighting package from B&H in a give-away. And you recommend some great equipment.

      - Instead of an in stuido visit, have an expert come out and help set up a studio. I want to set up an in home studio and a consultation would be wonderful.

      - And my personal fave idea - a review of photographs! I’d love an expert to critique my photographs. No travel would need to be involved; just send the photograph and a critique comes back. Even better, a phone conversation. This prize can range from 1 photograph critique to 10 photograph critiques. Almost as good as a mentorship with a professional :-)

      Stacie Morris on February 5th, 2008 at 10:20 am
    35. #35

      As a complete amateur, I appreciate any type of educational opportunity. I think the best education is hands on - learn by doing and/or working with the best. I absolutely love the Kelby Trainings but what if one could actually shadow someone like Joe McNally or Andy Greenwell or better yet, put me in the endzone of a Notre Dame football game with the best “gear for a day” prize with Joe McNally or Peter Read Miller by my side and guiding me to the next cover of SI or ESPN the Magazine. Like I said, I am an amateur in every sense of the word - it doesn’t hurt to dream big!

      karen m bixby on February 5th, 2008 at 10:22 am
    36. #36

      - A trip with you guys to shoot on location in yosemitee or some other cool place Hawaii?
      - A copy of all your books.
      - A years subscription to NAPP.
      - A years subscription to Kelby Training.
      - A sweet tripod thats light enough that I might actually carry it around.
      - Mark III would be cool though I wouldn’t know how to use 90% of it.. (so a training session for it too)
      - A few lenses (10-20, 17-55, 75-200)
      - Photoshop CS3 / Lightroom

      Or any 1 of the above and i’d be happy :)

      Chris on February 5th, 2008 at 10:22 am
    37. #37

      Hey Scott,

      Carrying on from Adam Kaiser’s suggestion, how about asking viewers/readers to submit a short video tutorial demonstrating a technique not just for photoshop but for photography in general ie a mini ‘out in the field’ piece of footage engaging the camera talking through a simple shoot with a final viewing of the end result?

      Prizes … well, the full conference pass to PSWorld and if someone already has a ticket, a Pre Conference Class of thier choice.

      Best wishes to you and yours,
      Glyn

      Glyn Dewis on February 5th, 2008 at 10:25 am
    38. #38

      Hey there Scott,

      Love the site! I check it everyday like everyone else I am sure.

      My I idea for a contest is “Change your life/job” contest.

      You would win a decent camera, Like at least a Canon 40D, a collection of lenses, strobes, and flashes, wireless transmitters, everything you need to become a great wedding or portrait photographer. And some training by you guys that could also be your photoshop tv segments.

      And that person would have the opportunity to throw away their boring job for a photography dream job possibility!

      Thanks and keep up the good work!

      Nathan Reich on February 5th, 2008 at 10:30 am
    39. #39

      A one-on-one experience with a mentor on a subject of most interest to the winner either a shooting, post-production or combination of bothsession.

      Steven Alexander on February 5th, 2008 at 10:39 am
    40. #40

      I woud LOVE a one day lighting workshop, with Joe or Scott.. that would be awesome. I also like the idea of throwing in the Kelby training subscription, but I’m already singed up for a year, so maybe an extension???

      thanx Scott, you Rule!

      Larry Leone on February 5th, 2008 at 10:40 am
    41. #41

      An all expenses paid GAPW/NAPP workshop. I participated on the Acadia trip last year (Hi Dave) and loved it.

      Art

      Arthur Agin on February 5th, 2008 at 11:06 am
    42. #42

      I have to agree with a visit to NAPP and a little one on one with you photoshop guys and the rest of the staff. Beginning with a sunrise shoot, followed by breakfast and coffee and a full day at NAPP. Topped off with a year membership to NAPP and Kelby training would make anyone’s day.

      Thanks,

      Marcy on February 5th, 2008 at 11:07 am
    43. #43

      Dare I say it…
      Something along the lines of American Idol meets America’s next top model. Every photographer getting into the industry is looking for that “big break” to shoot known talent in great locations. Some type of PR or rep connection would be a great prize to the person that can show that they have what it takes to launch a career in photography.

      Bryan Scott on February 5th, 2008 at 11:12 am
    44. #44

      Hey Scott!

      Those are some great ideas. I would be happy just winning last year’s price!

      How about a trip to B&H with spending money, a one year subscription to kelby training, and a membership to NAPP….oh and a subscription to LAYERS Magazine!

      Let me take this opportunity to thank all of you over at NAPP for really inspiring us in our work. You guys are without a doubt the greatest! I have learned so much just from watching PS User TV. Thanks Matt, Dave and Scott! You guys are making a difference!

      Oh…you guys should probably consider having a workshop here in South Texas! Don’t leave us behind!

      Ruben

      PS When I say South Texas, I mean SOUTH TEXAS Rio Grande Valley. There is a dynamic range of photographers and the industry is GROWING!

      Ruben Eddie Sanchez on February 5th, 2008 at 11:13 am
    45. #45

      A day of learning spent with Joe McNally on a location shoot. Then a day spent with Scott Kelby learning how to process Joe’s photos from his location shoot.

      Frank Little on February 5th, 2008 at 11:17 am
    46. #46

      I would give almost anything to spend a day with Moose Peterson in one of the nations national parks. Just shooting the most beautiful shots of landscapes and wildlife at the foot of the master, and I would die a happy man.

      Thomas O'Connor on February 5th, 2008 at 11:21 am
    47. #47

      How about having a bracket-competition type of contest, similar to the office pools we’ll be seeing in the US next month when “March Madness” hits? For instance, you could have a “Portrait” bracket where readers submit their best portrait and impartial judges decide who moves on until you’ve got the best one. There could be several of these brackets, based on categories: wildlife, sports, weddings, etc and you could have the instructors at KelbyTraining be the judges.

      BTW, my ultimate prize request if I won would be a couple of PocketWizards, a new Canon 580EX II flash and a weekend with David Hobby of Strobist.com.

      Tom Hewett on February 5th, 2008 at 11:25 am
    48. #48

      No matter what type of photography you are into, everyone needs to make a print. So the winner should get the ‘take your work to the paper” package.
      A 24″ printer, a new monitor and the new Sypder calibration system, then a one on one printing/ color management session with John Paul Caponigro.
      Film the session and put it on Kelby Training, so we can all see the process from start to finish.

      Lana on February 5th, 2008 at 11:29 am
    49. #49

      Scott,

      Make the contest a twofer and select the top 8 entries and have a playoff on Photoshop TV. You get 3-4 episodes covered with high audience interest as you hold the playoff matches. Eight compete to enter the final four and then the final four compete to see who comes in first, second, etc. You could even do it so that you get eight episodes, each with a 25 minute competion to decide a winner. Audience votes??? Do it Iron Chef style with a commentator explaining what each competitor is doing, particularly when they do something unique. Pretape it and make the competition an hour long, reduced to a half hour for TV.

      As for the prizes, the exposure will suffice for all but the top three prizes. I vote for the workshop with the photographer of your choice so that all interests are covered. However, you might also arrange a deal with Adobe whereby the winner gets named an Adobe Ambassador or Expert and gets to attend a few trade shows in that role with Adobe picking up the expenses. Again, a twofer.

      I received my copy of Joe’s book in the mail yesterday. I can’t wait for the weekend to come so I can give it the reading it deserves.

      Emmet

      Emmet Whitehead on February 5th, 2008 at 11:40 am
    50. #50

      I hear Dubai is pretty cool. How about an all expenses paid trip to go shooting with a famous photographer in Dubai :-)

      Jeff

      Jeff Revell on February 5th, 2008 at 11:42 am
    51. #51

      Scott,

      I think that this is an awesome idea, first of all. This is the first time I have commented on your blog, but I read it everyday. Its fantastic.

      As a prize for the contest - many people commenting are really into the idea of meeting professionals in the field, and learning from them, in a relaxed environment. I cant think of a better place to do that than the Maine Media Workshops. The Maine Photographic workshops side (they have a film side too) is quite possibly the best experience that a photographer can have…. I mean, its like summer camp for adults! (I must admit being biased, I was a staff member last summer - but if I am having that much fun, imagine being a student!)

      The best part is that numerous individuals found at Kelby Training - including John P. Caponigro, Vincent Versace, and of coarse Joe McNally teach there! There are plenty of others too, like Sean Duggan, Stephen Johnson, Bob Krist, & Jay Maisel.

      I think that paying for someone’s workshop tuition, and transportation to Maine could be a fantastic experience for the winner.

      Okay, thats my rant! :)

      John on February 5th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
    52. #52

      Hey Scott,

      Everyone seems to the idea of a photo assignment they just have a different idea of what the ultimate assignment would be. We’ve all been reading about some of your cool shoots over the past year. So how about the “Scott Kelby experience”. Have the winner get a couple of days shooting with Scott Kelby and some other amazing photographer. The winner gets to pick the type of shoot (landscape, studio, wildlife, sports, whatever) and Scott picks the location and pro who joins in. Then after the shoot, the winner get a couple days working with Scott and company doing the Photoshop wizardry on the images taken during the shoot out. Maybe even create a show around the whole event.

      ..and I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to throw in that D3 or Mark III.

      Andrew Gorohoff on February 5th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
    53. #53

      Hi Scott,
      Nice idea having your blog readers to come up with suggestions.
      Here’s mine;
      A Digital Photo Studio starting with Scott Kelby B&H lighting kit, background and software (Lightroom and/or Onone software, to name a few) to enhance the developing process. Also, to fully experience the set-up, photographing, developing and printing it would be nice to attend one of your Lightroom Seminar.
      To me that will be the ultimate prize and experience…

      Harold Blouin on February 5th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
    54. #54

      There are so many fine suggestions here. Each with his or her own personal interest. How about letting the winner choose what he would like to do with a generous credit account and time frame.

      So it could be seminars, a photo shoot, equipment, one-on-one training…

      Just put a cap on the amount, and let them have the fun of choosing what is near and dear to that person.

      Larry on February 5th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
    55. #55

      You should run a contest where the winner gets to tool around Tampa/Orlando for a week, maybe with a new camera, taking photos and having time to be creative with photography and Photoshop. Then they get to pull together an experience or two (flash of creativity, maybe learning something new about Photoshop) and show it to the world on their own special segment of Photoshop TV!

      Jeremy Schultz on February 5th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
    56. #56

      Ok Scott. I am sure there are already plenty of great ideas, but I had to join in at least to let you know how much I enjoy your blog, books, and being a part of NAPP. So about ideas:

      1. A trip to Santa Fe Workshops for the worskshop of the winner’s choice or PSTV if you like so one of the PSGuys can be teaching.

      2. The Cruising for Life trip that Dave and Matt mentioned on the show several times. (Oh so jealous)

      3. The previously mentioned Digital Landscape and Wildlife Workshop with Moose Peterson.

      Thanks again and maybe next year we can watch a Super Bowl with my San Diego Chargers playing your Tampa Bay Bucs.

      Doug Zeliff on February 5th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
    57. #57

      How about the winner gets the Westcott Scott Kelby Studio Kit from B&H.

      Take Care,
      Dale

      Dale on February 5th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
    58. #58

      hey scott,

      what about a day shooting your beloved Tampa Bay Buccaneers with YOU, an all access pass and a past processing session afterwards. Then maybe present the Pics on Photoshop TV with the winner on the show, plus the whole normal stuff like a NAPP subscription and some books or so.

      Sebastian on February 5th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
    59. #59

      Lots of great ideas out there already. I’d be honored to win any of the things mentioned. In an attempt to be different, how about this:

      - Winner receives a one-on-one day/weekend with a pro (or pros???), such as Moose, Joe, Laurie, Scott, et. al

      - BUT (here’s the twist), instead of flying the winner somewhere, the pro comes to the winner’s location. The winner provides some shooting destination suggestions, and together they head out to shoot one (or more) of ‘em. Following the day, perhaps a little digital darkroom tutorial session?

      Now, this may be a location the winner has been to many times before, and perhaps photographed before (and, at least in my case, those shots may have left something to be desired). But the idea is that this trip, in the company of greatness, would yield not only some better images, but also new learning, new perspective, and new insights on the many photo opportunities that surround all of us each day.

      Depending on the place and person, the winner may have some ideas for those “off the beaten path” locations that you don’t see in the tourist books. How cool would it be to see those spots through the eyes of a pro!

      The winner would also have a chance to introduce the guest(s) to some fine local culinary establishments, and share a bit of their life and family with them as well.

      As a small bonus, maybe throw in a year’s subscription to NAPP or KelbyTraining, etc.

      Thanks for the chance to suggest and brainstorm, Scott!

      Mike

      Mike Rodriguez on February 5th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
    60. #60

      I agree with a lot of the posts here, that people would just love to spend time with some of the pro’s. But instead of a 1-on-1 training session, which would be really hard to set up, how about just tagging along on an assignment? To be able to assist a bit, with the opportunity to take a couple of shots. To see how these pro assignments work, and the way everything comes together would be invaluable.

      Plus, $1000 (or whatever was left over in the budget) to spend on some new camera equipment the winner might need for the assignment.

      Stefan Alexander on February 5th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
    61. #61

      Grand prize theme: Pro sport photographer for a Game.

      The ‘feature’ of the grand prize would be “can’t buy this” access for the winner to a pro sports event as a photographer. (Event to be determined based upon Photoshop TV’s ability to wrangle access to the event.) BONUS feature: the company of Scott Kelby to the game as photographer/instructor/all-round-cool-guy to hang around on the sidelines with.

      The prize would include pre-game instruction with a real-live pro sports photographer, and during-game ‘guidance.’ (SK could provide the guidance, as he has prior experience, and has demonstrated his talent for shooting pro-sports as seen on this blog.) A post-game review of pics with the pro could be way cool.

      And, since no sports photog wants to be seen on the sideline without a pro-level kit pressed against his/her face, the USE of pro-level lenses and camera bodies for the game (and, for a day or three before the game, to learn all the features). (Have to be realistic, just giving away a single, pro-level 300 mm f2.8 lens would blow the budget, and what good is a sweet lens without a budget-blowing pro-body to go with it.)

      And, of course, expenses-paid trip for two to location of the game, with an event-ticket or access pass for significant other, so he or she can see you living the dream!

      Dream event: 2009 Pro Bowl in Honolulu.

      Garon on February 5th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
    62. #62

      The GRAND PRIZE WINNER would win a “Canon Rebel Xti”, a “Wacom Cintiq 12WX”, and a trip onto “Photoshop User TV.” On PSUTV maybe they could do a tutorial.

      Brandon Jacoby on February 5th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
    63. #63

      Being on the web is an important aspect of showing your work. How about a web site makeover, if you have one. Or setting up a brand new site if the winner doesn’t have one. I realize it’s not a grand prize by itself. Perhaps part of a package.

      Tim on February 5th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
    64. #64

      While I think getting some high-end gear would be great, I am pretty much convinced that it is not the gear that determines the “magic” quality of the pic. I think I would like unlimited access to the Scott Kelby Training Site.

      Also, it would be wonderful to be able to go on a shooting trip with a pro, like Moose, you know. Or maybe attend the Sante Fe workshop experience.

      I can only speak for myself, but I can’t help but feel that there are others in similar situations - for some of us life is such that we may never get the chance to shoot the canyons in Arizona or get to Yellowstone or Alaska. Winning a chance to shoot places and things that are far beyond the reach of our respective backyards would be a hugely rewarding experience.

      Of course, a full pass to Photoshop World wouldn’t be amiss either. :-0

      Vicki Holdwick on February 5th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
    65. #65

      Scott,

      Okay, here we go…

      Contest: Contestants are expected to submit a photograph (or series of) displaying their utmost creativity based upon a theme you suggest. Your panel chooses the winner.

      The Prize:
      A fully paid trip to join you on one of your photography expeditions. Also included, your entire series of books autographed and a copy of Photoshop CS3 and Lightroom.

      Ian Schmoel on February 5th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
    66. #66

      Hmm I could think of loads of stuff :)

      - Photoshop world pass incl. travel
      - Some photo trip, mayby workshop where you are teaching
      - Visit the studio and you guys for a day
      - Win one of you for a day.. You come and teach somewhere
      - Acces to kelbytraining, mayby just a one month thing if you are cheap :)
      - Win a tutorial on PSUTV of your choice
      - Book of choice instead of a book you chose, make it a choice from the different books you have

      Just a few ideas

      Theis on February 5th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
    67. #67

      I think a neat giveaway could be a package of gear that is made for a certain type of shooting. My thought is that you, Matt, Dave, etc, would come up with different packages for beginners/intermediates for portrait, wedding, landscape, close up, wildlife, nature, etc and the winner could pick the one they wanted. You could work with some experts in each field to pick what they think the proper gear should be.

      Kevin Crafts on February 5th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
    68. #68

      Joe McNally is my photography hero (has been since the National Geographic 100th Anniversary of Flight project), and I would love to spend a day with him doing ANYTHING, but I think that’s been suggested a couple times already. (Can’t wait to get my hands on “The Moment it Clicks”).

      I’ve been reviewing Vincent Versace’s “Believing is Seeing” instructional DVD on portrait retouching and would love to spend a day on a portrait shoot with Vincent, and participate with his guidance from shoot to print.

      A day with Michael Grecco would also be a terrific learning experience.

      And of course, as a Photoshop and Digital Photography teacher myself, a day (or a week) with the NAPP team would be a dream prize! (…or perhaps a job with the NAPP team…? Now there’s the ultimate dream prize!)

      Jon Haverstick on February 5th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
    69. #69

      Hi Scott
      Bet you haven’t thought about this one; the prize winner gets to go on Photoshop User Tv where you 3 guys give him/her a live haircut + makeup, and then you show everybody how to clean up the mess in Photoshop and the grand price is an apparatus for printing out the cleaned up portrait. Voilá!!

      Click you later
      Daniel

      Daniel Laflor on February 5th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
    70. #70

      I am not able to come up with a “really cool and inventive contest” however, I would like to win it. And for a prize I would like a web site makeover from Rafael Concepcion. Maybe use it for demo purposes on Kelby Training. The big kicker would be to get the new web site mentioned here on Kelby’s blog.

      Larry Larsen on February 5th, 2008 at 4:56 pm
    71. #71

      Hi Scott,

      Have an ice sculptor sculpt the Photoshop user tv logo in a big ice cube. Hide the prize (this could be anything) that can be won inside that ice cube.

      The contestants have to guess (in seconds) when the prize will drop the ground.

      The contestant who is closest wins!

      In order to make it more fun, a webcam that is put on the ice sculpture with live streaming to the internet will be needed.

      Michiel De Groote on February 5th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
    72. #72

      I’d like to win airfare, hotel, and a seat at one of the One Light Workshop and some fancy new triggers, a strobe, and a nice light stand set-up. We don’t get many (or any) workshops here in Oklahoma, so it’s always an expense to get to one.

      Robyn Miller on February 5th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
    73. #73

      Send the 1st prize winner to a really cool place, like Baffin Island
      Auyuittuq National Park in Canada
      http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/nu/auyuittuq/index_e.asp
      with a first class Photographer (Joe McNally, Moose Peterson).

      Luke on February 5th, 2008 at 6:37 pm
    74. #74

      Hey Mr.Kelby, the following comes to mind as an educator & amateur photographer:

      1) Give the winner a semi-pro DSLR package, and a few cheap digital point and shoots

      2) Next, send the winner to a third world country school where the point & shoots would be used by poor kids to take pictures of their surroundings & daily life. The winner could potentially use their DSLRs to take photo journalistic pictures of kids in their surroundings

      3) Put up a website to showcase the pictures taken by kids, and by the winner, and use it for awareness of poverty, etc. The tagline could be: See the world through their eyes (with a group shot of the kids….)

      Vishal Shah on February 5th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
    75. #75

      Hey Scott,
      My contest is called, “It’s Good to be King and/ or Queen!”
      This contest does not discriminate by race, sex, sexual orientation or favored method of learning. The winner will receive the following prizes for life and/or a year:
      1) A super pass for PS World (all parties and shoots), and/or a week long seminar @ the Santa Fe Workshop.
      2) Free upgrades of PS, and/or LR.
      3) A free membership to Kelby Training videos, and/or free copies of all the upcoming books written by NAPP instructors.
      4) Yours, and/ or Matt’s used cameras (Nikon, and/or Cannon) when you upgrade gear again.
      5) Finally, since PSTV is a pod cast, a free IPOD, and/or a bottle of tequila.
      Damn, I want this stuff!!!

      Francesco D'Amico on February 5th, 2008 at 7:36 pm
    76. #76

      Hi Scott.
      I think a one week photo shoot & photoshop workshop with you Mat, and David would be the best possible prize.

      thanks.

      Nath Kaplan on February 5th, 2008 at 8:50 pm
    77. #77

      As I am an aerial photography fan I would recommend a 1 hour photo shoot from a helicopter of a National Park supported by a well known aerial photographer for guidance. Include in package a photo spread & promotion of winners work on NAPP & magazine feature.

      Thanks,
      Keith

      Keith Fletcher on February 5th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
    78. #78

      I have a couple.

      A camera crawl to different cities, you could call it the “7 cities in 7 days prize” where they go and have the opportunity to shoot different cities and different places. You could have an itinery set up for them so they get to go to the best places. If you have more money make it “7 countries in 7 days”. You could do portraits here, landscapes there, underwater here, cities there etc.

      My second would be to allow someone to choose what they want to do depending on what they want:
      1. Portraits with expert A.
      2. Lanscape Master Class with expert B.
      3. Photoshop cram session with expert C.
      4. Underwater shots with expert D.
      5. Travel photography with expert E.
      6. Lighting techniques with expert F.
      7. etc
      This way the winner gets to choose who they want to shoot with and makes it cater for all.

      James on February 5th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
    79. #79

      I would love to be a winner of one of those GREAT on location photography workshops that you (Scott) have gone on. (You know like Moose’s or Joe’s!) Those always caught my attention. I would even love to go somewhere where you or Matt would want to go to, just to shoot with you guys. That could be fun. It could be complimented with a travel package of ThinkTANK photo products to transport the winner’s equipment to this workshop. Now were talking!

      Larry

      Larry Loar on February 5th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
    80. #80

      If that doesn’t work, then the all inclusive pass to Photoshop World would be a most excellent prize. That and getting to meet some of the presenters that would be attending would be cool.

      Larry

      Larry Loar on February 5th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
    81. #81

      Scott,

      The prizes should include a guest spot on Photoshop User TV, the winner’s choice of one or more of your books, a full year subscription to KelbyTraining.com and a full year NAPP membership. Also, a special One on One Training Session with the winner’s photographer or teacher of their choice.

      P.S. If there is any money left over, a nice $500 B&H Gift Card would be great as well.

      - William

      William on February 5th, 2008 at 10:50 pm
    82. #82

      the prize should be a tour of adobe, abobe give out some of the software has prizes. also a year kelby training.

      eileen on February 5th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
    83. #83

      Scott,

      I haven’t spent the time to read through these 81 comments (as you probably will), and don’t want to be repeating any ideas (for surely someone has already tossed-in this idea) but I think the best and most fitting prize would be to spend time with you on a shoot, just watching, and to be with you while you edit (work your magic) in Photoshop. This, I believe, would be the ideal prize.

      -Jared

      Jared on February 5th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
    84. #84

      Hey Scott,
      I didn’t have a chance to read everyone’s suggestions above, so I apologize if this has already been mentioned:
      here are some prize suggestions:
      1) another shopping spree at B&H photo.
      2) A complete starter kit for someone wanting to get into serious photography: an SLR body, 1 decent lens, and a case.
      3) Shooting assignment in some exotic locale with all expenses paid.
      4) A new high end mountain bike to take us to distant shooting locations. (hey, I like biking. What can I say?)
      5) Being part of the production of an issue of Photoshop User, so we can see what goes into making the magazine.

      Mark on February 5th, 2008 at 11:49 pm
    85. #85

      Hi Scott,

      What more for a photographer than to assist a renowned pro. I think a good gift would be to assist someone like Joe McNally or Moose Peterson during one of their assignments or just being around them.

      Cheers,
      Bharat

      Bharat Shrinevas on February 6th, 2008 at 1:59 am
    86. #86

      Hello Scott ,

      My Idea is winning a all access pass to photoshop world with everything paid. But don’t just send them there put them to work and have them take pictures of the event and publish the photos in NAPP magazine. Or I Like the idea of getting some one on one time with you or Joe McNally or someone who is loose with their time.

      Later,
      Sean K.

      Sean Kukowski on February 6th, 2008 at 2:46 am
    87. #87

      Hi Scott,

      this year, you could ask all the famous photographers like Joe McNally, Moose Peterson, David Ziser, you and the “Photoshop Guys” and of course the lucky winner of the contest with his family to spend a cool weekend or so in Montana or Yellowstone national park for example!
      The winner will get a full brandnew camera equipment to shoot out there and learn from some amazing instructors!
      As a bonus, the winner will get a subscription to NAPP and a membership of kelbytraining.com

      Markus Hörster on February 6th, 2008 at 4:23 am
    88. #88

      Hi Scott,

      don’t have time to read all the entry’s above, so I don’t know if my idea was posted before. What about the Idea from your digital photography book. Basically it´s you and the winner together at a shoot, and you’re giving him the same tips, the same advice, and sharing the same techniques, you’ve learned over the years from some of the top working pros. And since your book we all know that sometimes you have to buy stuff, so you can accompany the winner to an B&H store measure his equipment and give him some advice of gear he could need.

      Thanks,
      Kay

      Kay on February 6th, 2008 at 4:28 am
    89. #89

      Hi,

      how about that for one year the winner gets each month a new hot gadget to play with. At the end of the month he gives it back or he chooses it as his price.

      So he has 12 gadgets to choose from.

      Regards, Thomas

      Thomas on February 6th, 2008 at 5:11 am
    90. #90

      In my dream of dreams, what I would give for a Nikon D3………

      Cynthia on February 6th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
    91. #91

      How about this for an idea:

      All inclusive opportunity to be with different experts in there field:
      1. Landscape and Nature Photography with Moose Peterson and Laurie Excell
      2. People Photography with Joe MacNally
      3. Photoshop with Scott Kelby and Dave Cross
      4. Lightroom with Matt Kosklowski
      5. Tech and Camera Shopping with Scott Kelby and Terry White

      This will cover all areas in one trip and have it all expense paid with airfare, food and transportation/accomodations. Plus a $1000 for shopping spree.

      Sorry about the post above. Hit submit by accident…my bad.

      chris on February 6th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
    92. #92

      I think a week’s trip to Hawaii or Machu Picchu would be fine!! And a great digital camera with a long zoom so the winner could take pictures of the gorgeous places.
      thanks,

      Anahid on February 6th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
    93. #93

      Hey Scott,

      I believe you should sent the winner on a assignment with a professional photographer that specializes in whatever genre they want to learn.

      Personally I’d love to be given full press privileges at an Airshow and be able to go up in fighters or cargo aircraft. We then could shoot beautiful air to air images with the lovely glass you have provided for the day. With the very unpredictable weather at air shows, it would be interesting to see what a professional photographer does to make the best out of the weather.

      Thanks,
      -Josh

      Josh Gooden on February 6th, 2008 at 10:28 pm
    94. #94

      Scott,

      Here are my ideas:

      Challenge:
      Photograph a concept. You give a theme, impression, emotion or some kind of message and contestants must illustrate it with a photograph. Anyone can take a photo of a mountain, but communicating a message through a still picture is indeed an art and hence the challenge of photography.

      Reward:
      The ultimate reward of course, publication and notoriety. The winners shot will be published in one of your magazines and/or books. And of course a package of gear from B&H would suffice as well!

      Michael Moss on February 6th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
    95. #95

      Well, it might seem a bit lame, but really when I think of contests out there, it’s been a long time since I saw one of those prizes that make you say, “well, my goodness, how often can I enter?” and then put it on your daily to do list. What would that contest be for me?

      Two components:
      Gear - a “complete” Nikon set-up. (Get Nikon to be a sponsor in return for banners and web links, etc.) A D300 (feel free to make it a D3, but you don’t want to have your site crash with entries) with a wide lens (17-55 f2.8 [assuming a D300] or a 17-35 f2.8 or a 14-24 f.2.8) and a 70-200 f2.8 VR and an SB-800.

      Instruction: A trip to a Moose Peterson DLWS - he has several great locations throughout the year at around a $1000 a class. I understand that Photoshop instruction is a major element. Or a day of studio / location / lighting instruction with Joe McNally.

      That’s the kind of prize that causes people to zone out and day dream.

      Just my wish… It was even fun just to write it out.
      Thanks -
      Theodore

      Theodore Paradise on February 6th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
    96. #96

      Hi Scott,

      Its always nice to win gear, but I would just like to hang out with the gang for my prize. I would like to see is you guys going to the winners hometown for a day. In the morning would be a photo shoot with the winner at a point of interest nearby. After the shoot you then go back to their house and walk them through the whole process of lightroom and photoshop. I guess it would be a mini private seminar. I suppose you could do the opposite also and fly the winner to you. After a photo shoot you could give a tour of the studio. Maybe even let them do a PS tip on the show?

      Thanks,

      Allan

      Allan Hack on February 7th, 2008 at 12:17 am
    97. #97

      To spend a week at NAAP, design a cover for the NAAP magazine and participate on Photoshop TV

      Alex Basin on February 7th, 2008 at 12:51 am
    98. #98

      Hey Scott,

      Greeting from London, England.

      For photographers, both amateur and pro, I think there are two most important - or indeed fun - aspects of the photographic process are taking the shots and seeing the final result, be it in print, in an ad, magazine cover or around the web.

      But obviously each photographer’s subject of choice is different, wildlife, travel, fashion, weddings, etc. So I think the competition should reflect that, also it allows more people to enter. It also allows for easier judging as it is categorized.

      I think a great prize would be of an opportunity for lucky winners, of say 6 categories, to take part in a once-in-a-life-time photo shoot for a magazine article and/or cover shot. Perhaps Layers Magazine or Photoshop User magazine. The article could cover the shoot, the image processing, the editorial process, the printing etc.

      Perhaps then from those six winners, one could be chosen as the overall winner and take part in one final special event or win some particular shopping trip/camera/etc.

      Love the show, keep up the fantastic work.

      Dan Harrod

      I personally think that

      Dan Harrod on February 7th, 2008 at 5:18 am
    99. #99

      Hi again - I posted at #34 and wanted to add on.

      One suggestion was a studio makeover - taking it to another level, it would be really neat to also be on NAPP TV - like Home Make-over, just Studio Makeeover. You could include someone with a home studio, limit space, to someone with unlimited space. That would be really neat!

      Stacie Morris on February 7th, 2008 at 9:18 am
    100. #100

      The ultimate prize:

      Contributor status to a national photography oriented magazine. Even it is a series of articles that follow the progression or growth of a photographer for a couple of years; something that will pay for the development of the photographer over time and provide a long-term educational experience. In other words - to be a sponsored artist. It may not pay the mortgage, but maybe it pays enough for equipment and some travel.

      Sure it’s a lot easier to do a one-off shoot. But, if you’re talking dream on a low budget - this would be it.

      James Jones on February 7th, 2008 at 11:49 am
    101. #101

      1. Photo trip with the Photoshop TV crew to Zion National Park.

      2. Spend a week as an assistant to David Ziser, Joe McNally, Moose Peterson or Scott Kelby during a photo assignment or training event.

      3. Scott, you’ve got to have at least 8 more books in various stages of development. Take the winner along with you to one or more photo shoots as an assistant. Have the winner shoot along with you and use their photos in a chapter of one of these upcoming books.

      4. Lifetime NAPP membership w/access to Kelby Training material.

      Dave Wilkinson

      David Wilkinson on February 7th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
    102. #102

      Hi Scott,

      I may (or certainly) not posting this to correct thread, sorry about that… but I am desperately try to find out answer for this:

      While I watched your CS2 Down and Dirty tricks and tried your seamless sky trick for one of my photos.

      Unfortunately, there is not a house under the not-so-good sky instead, there are few pine trees at background, which directly under the white-grey sky.

      After follow the instructions of you trick, I turned the white-grey sky into a perfect blue sky, but there a lots of “small white spots” between the twigs and leaves on the tree remained as the while-grey color, as the original sky. I used the select->similar menu to try to select similar areas, it does selected some, but not all of them.

      so you can imagine, now I get a perfect blue sky, but under the blue sky, there are some pine trees seems has some snow on their twigs 

      is there any way to efficiently get rid of all the small white spots between the twigs?

      Thank you
      James

      James on February 7th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
    103. #103

      Scott,
      First of all, I need to first say that you are truly one of the most inspirational people I have never met!!! I recently re-signed with NAPP after a 3-4 year hiatus and my-oh-my…the things I have been missing out on. And Kelby Training??!! I can’t believe the quality of classes you guys are putting up there. This is definitely not a budgeted expense for us but KT is practically a must for every photographer. What a value. Thank you for doing what you do.

      Now to the post at hand. What a great idea for a contest! Here is what I would love to win: A 1-2 light portable flash setup. I recently attended a lighting seminar out in CA that has completely rocked my world on lighting techniques. I was soooo stoked to go home and figure out how we can afford to get at least one light head and one 600w or 1200w generator. My excitement dwindled a bit when reality set in as I saw what they go for. Part of my disappointment is tied into the fact that my beautiful wife is almost 2 months pregnant (check out my blog by clicking on my name for the full story on why this is truly a miracle!) and after seeing some of the images that can be created with a good lighting setup, the thing I want most is to be able to take my bride and create the images that are in my mind’s eye. Even if I can only afford to do it with a 580 flash, I am going to try and create what I am imagining. I can’t wait for the 6-7 month stage!!

      I hesitated at first to participate in this contest as I knew that if by chance you saw fit to select my prize, I would have to come back with the images as evidence!! Showing my work to Mr. Kelby?!?! :-)

      Anyhow, whoever wins, this is a great contest. I am so privileged and blessed to be alive during a time that so many are furthering the industry I love.

      MattDJ on February 7th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
    104. #104

      The rest of your library that I don’t already own, a year’s subscription to Kelby Training and the opportunity to shoot with you, Matt, Dave, Moose and Joe McNally for a day.

      Tina Harden on February 7th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
    105. #105

      Hi,

      I propose a Photography Makeover Contest/Prize Package.

      How far can someone’s skills improve in just one year?

      To be evaluated with before & after captured digital images and Photoshop work.

      During the year, the winner will have at their disposal:

      Free access to Kelby training
      Free membership to NAPP
      Access pass to Photoshop World
      Pass to amazing photography conferences scheduled throughout the year(eg- Ziser’s Master Class) or location shoot conferences with pros
      $ for travel budget
      Coupons/gift certificates from photography retailers or manufacturers.

      Everyone loves a makeover, but just how far can one lucky photographer go?

      Adalia on February 7th, 2008 at 11:53 pm
    106. #106

      Get the most from the least
      Alright a theme in the requests seems to be asking for high end gear. So my idea is set a dollar value for payout say 6000. Then subtract from that total the doller value of gear used to get the shot.

      Patrick on February 8th, 2008 at 12:52 am
    107. #107

      HI, how about sending the winer to an assuagement with some one like Joe Mcnally, i always wondering how can these pro photographers handel an assuagement from client like National Geographic, starting frome discussion the concept and the idea tell the final shoots that been delivered to the client.
      Regards

      Esam Kabli on February 8th, 2008 at 5:02 am
    108. #108

      Scott,
      I have an idea called the “Monumental photo contest.” Everyone would submit photos of their local landmark. It could be a town landmark, or a monument such as a veteran’s landmark. Contestants would have to be creative (shooting in different lighting and such) and the winner would get to visit the landmark or city of their choosing in North or South America.

      James George on February 11th, 2008 at 1:36 am
    109. #109

      How about a few days in New York shooting with McNally. A little one on one with the main man in his home town. I’m not changing any light bulbs though.

      Bill Byrd on February 11th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
    110. #110

      A great contest should challenge the participant to express their personal style, yet capture the objective. The object for this “contest” could be anything, it’s just gotta be within 10 miles of your house! I know this is where the majority of my “clicks” occur as an amature without a travel budget.

      As a prize, it could be a photographic expedition with one of the greats mentioned in the previous posts and on this website. I read the blogs by Scott, Moose, Laurie and Joe everyday (just to mention a few). The expedition could be 1 day in a NAPP class followed by a day of shooting with Scott or one of the killer DLWS events I get to read about and drool over!

      Beau Kuipers on February 11th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
    111. #111

      What about shooting our homes or our studio… we spend a ton of time there, eating, sleeping and living, call it: “Your Eye on Your Castle – A Glimpse of You”

      This assignment would/should reveal to all of you at NAPP – a glimpse of who we are!

      We have a ton of glimpses of you guys!
      In my photo you’d see I want to learn: I want to be “better”.

      So - how about taking a look?
      Now - This doesn’t need to be a self portrait, in the traditional way. Think communication, technique and individually – I think that would be insightful and fun!!

      Prize: AH! We all need better equipment: for me I need lights and a better tripod. One like yours Scott!! And almost every one who has submitted here has asked for training both video and personal.

      And I totally agree - but I say, come to My Town. Come help me where I am – where I live and work. I won’t be distracted by anything but learning. And I’d really like the comfort of hospitality and new friendship. And Scott please bring your lighting package!!!

      So Scott, Matt, Dave or even Joe, please come on over to my town. Let’s shoot! And thanks for all you do!

      Patty – Tucson, AZ

      Patty Findley on February 13th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
    112. #112

      Hi Scott!
      After careful consideration, I believe I’ve got it, the best prize idea that is. So many people have posted suggestions about trips or safaris to various locations. Those are good. But there are not what we need. A prize that would actually help me would be for one of you guys to come to me. I’m so grateful for all that you do and I’ve learned so much from your books. But I still have questions, like how to get my gear to perform better since I can’t exactly afford all the dream gear that’s out there. I need someone to come to my studio and show me how to do things better. And if they came with a softbox and Adobe gear that would be great too. Just thought I’d throw this out there.
      Thank You Scott, for everything.
      Shannon - Eunice, La

      Shannon Ponthier on February 17th, 2008 at 1:31 am
    113. #113

      My idea of a dream prize would be one-on-one lessons with some of the “greats”: McNally, Peterson, Excel, Kelby, et al. To have the opportunity to learn the disciplines — from shooting through to printing — with everything tailored to the recipient, would be incredible.

      If equipment was part of the prize then each “great” could pick something that complements the lesson(s), such as: a lens or tripod from a field photographer; a computer or bundle of computer programs; a printer or scanner, etc.

      Personally, the time with the “greats” would be the best prize of all. Although cost is always an issue when buying equipment or attending workshops, the one-on-one time with the experts is priceless.

      Thanks for all the information and advice you share on your blog.
      Susan

      S.D. Akitt on February 21st, 2008 at 12:35 pm
    114. #114

      Hello Skinny Scott,
      How about the winner of the contest being awarded a grand prize of shadowing you for a week, a month or a lamo day. someone could learn tons of new photo ideas and techniques, as well as the cross publishing and editorial gigs you do. Hey, someone could learn some down and dirty secrets about you and photomail you for lots of free gear. Heck, the possibilities are endless. Think about it.

      Teresa Metz on February 25th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
    115. #115

      A job at NAPP! Seriously, your organization looks like a great, positive work environment full of creative and practical thinking (and thinkers).

      BUT just in case that’s not a possibility (grin), training materials and Photoshop World attendance passes are great giveaways.

      By the way, the podcasts make my train commute informative, entertaining and enjoyable. Thanks for all you–and your staff–do. You are truly top notch.

      Helene on February 27th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
    116. #116

      I think a great prize would be a week long (or 5 days, 10 days, whatever) shooting and post processing with a photographer of our choice out of a selection based on genre of interest. This would give the winner great insight into the life of a pro and I personally think would be much, much more valuable than say a shopping spree at B&H. You know how it goes:
      Adobe Photoshop CS3 - $649
      Macbook Pro- $2,499
      D3 - $4,999
      Week with Scott Kelby (or Moose, Joe, etc): Priceless!

      Or, if you could somehow hook the winner up with an internship/job as an assistant to an established photographer in his/her area. That would also be pretty cool.

      Kristin Speed on March 3rd, 2008 at 5:45 pm
    117. #117

      An idea for the contest:
      Due to the soaring increase of human injustice throughout the world, I think it’ll be cool and informing if the contest was based on human rights. The Best Photograph with any photoshop rendering, either major or minor, that exposes the harsh realities of the world we live either voted by commitee or subscribers should win. And the best part of the contest is that it’ll provide and education to all who are able to view the works submitted.

      And now for the prize:
      Of course it’ll be cool to win free gear and meet everyone, but that’ll be selfish and out of the ordinary. Instead, lets make the photograph worth more by linking it to the prize. If its in budget, PSUTV can put together a support package that’ll include whatever it is thats needed to the subjects of the photographs, whether food, books, etc. It doesnt have to be too big because sometimes what we think is small may mea