The American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) High School Photo Contest is a fantastic opportunity for budding photographers and physics enthusiasts to showcase their creativity and understanding of the physical world. This contest encourages students to explore the beauty and wonder of physics through the lens of their cameras. This guide will provide you with insights and strategies to increase your chances of winning.
Understanding the Contest's Core Values
Before diving into the technical aspects, it's crucial to understand what the AAPT judges are looking for. The contest isn't just about capturing a visually appealing image; it's about conveying a clear understanding of a physics concept. Your photograph should effectively communicate a physical phenomenon, principle, or application. This requires a blend of artistic skill and scientific knowledge.
Key Judging Criteria:
- Scientific Merit: This is arguably the most important aspect. Does your photo clearly illustrate a physics concept? Is the connection between the image and the physics principle easily understood? The clearer the connection, the higher your score.
- Visual Appeal: A stunning photograph is more likely to capture the judges' attention. Consider composition, lighting, and overall aesthetic appeal. A technically excellent photo with poor composition will likely score lower than a well-composed photo with slightly less technical perfection.
- Originality: While illustrating common physics principles is acceptable, demonstrating originality and a unique perspective will significantly improve your chances. Think outside the box; find a new angle or a fresh way to represent a familiar concept.
- Technical Quality: Sharp focus, appropriate exposure, and good overall image quality are essential. A blurry or poorly exposed image, regardless of its scientific merit, will likely be penalized.
Choosing Your Subject: Ideas & Inspiration
The possibilities are vast! Consider exploring these areas for potential winning shots:
Classical Mechanics:
- Motion: Capture the motion blur of a spinning object, a falling object, or a projectile.
- Forces: Illustrate concepts like gravity, friction, or tension through creative imagery.
- Energy: Show the transformation of energy, such as potential energy converting to kinetic energy.
Optics:
- Refraction: Capture the bending of light as it passes through different mediums (water, glass, etc.).
- Reflection: Experiment with mirrors and reflections to create visually striking images.
- Diffraction: Photograph the diffraction patterns created by light passing through a narrow slit or around an object.
Thermodynamics:
- Heat Transfer: Capture images that demonstrate conduction, convection, or radiation.
- Phase Transitions: Show the transition between different states of matter (e.g., ice melting).
Electromagnetism:
- Magnetic Fields: Use iron filings to visualize magnetic field lines.
- Electrostatic Forces: Experiment with static electricity to create unique visual effects.
Technical Tips for Stunning Physics Photos:
- Lighting: Pay close attention to lighting. Good lighting can make or break a photograph.
- Composition: Use the rule of thirds and other compositional techniques to create visually appealing images.
- Post-Processing: Use photo editing software (GIMP, Photoshop) to enhance your images subtly, but avoid over-processing.
- Camera Settings: Experiment with different settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO) to achieve the desired effect. Consider using a tripod for sharper images, especially in low-light conditions.
Beyond the Photograph: The Supporting Statement
Your photograph is only half the battle. The accompanying statement is equally crucial. This statement should clearly explain:
- The physics principle illustrated: Clearly identify the concept being demonstrated.
- The experimental setup (if applicable): Describe how you created the image.
- The connection between the image and the physics concept: Explain the relationship between your photograph and the underlying physics.
Conclusion: Capture the Essence of Physics
The AAPT High School Photo Contest is a rewarding experience. By combining your artistic talents with your knowledge of physics, you can create compelling images that not only win awards but also inspire others to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the physical world. Remember, meticulous planning, creative execution, and a clear explanation are key to success. Good luck!
