Exhibition of photography at RHS London Flower Shows
Guidelines for judging group exhibits of photographs of plants, flower and gardens
(Amended version, Manual 2006. p.14)
a. Exhibits of groups of photographs are assessed first and foremost as botanical illustration. Judges should assess both the individual photographic competence of the work and the quality of the way it is presented as an exhibit. They should assess the overall impression and how this has been achieved both in relation to its horticultural content and its artistic effect.
b. The following may be regarded as positive features for assessing an exhibit:
- that the horticultural content of each photograph is satisfactory
- that the composition of each photograph is satisfactory
- that the space allocated in which to hang the photograph is well-filled without being overcrowded
- that the exhibit has an overall unity
- that any written information is accurate and well presented
- that any frames, mounts, or other accessories used are appropriate in style, scale and condition
- that the design of the display enhances the appearance of the photographs
c. The following may be regarded as negative features in assessing an exhibit:
- that the exhibit does not conform to the rules for exhibiting as published in the relevant Manual or Show Schedule
- that the horticultural content of one or more photographs is not satisfactory
- that the composition of any photography is not satisfactory
- that any photograph is poorly focused or otherwise unclear
- that the space allocated in which to hang the photographs is not well-filled or is overcrowded
- that the exhibit does not have overall unity
- that any written information is inaccurate or not well presented
- that any frames, mounts or other accessories used are not appropriate in style, scale and condition
- that the design of the display detracts from the appearance of the photographs
d. Artists submitting groups of gardens for exhibition should bear in mind that these will be assessed first and foremost as botanical illustration