Guides for creative competition entrants
Practical ways to read a brief, develop an idea and prepare a clear submission. Start with the part you need today.
How to read a competition brief
Separate the creative challenge from the conditions of entry, then turn the important details into a workable plan.
Practical guideHow to develop a lighting-design competition concept
Begin with the people and the place. Show what your lighting changes, how it works and what still needs testing.
Practical guideHow to write a clear competition statement
Explain the idea, the decisions behind it and its connection to the brief. Then cut the words that do not earn their place.
Practical guideAI and competition rules: what to check before entering
Understand what the organiser allows before using AI in your process, and keep a clear record of how your entry was made.
Practical guideA practical photography competition entry checklist
Prepare the image, caption and supporting files so the submission represents your work clearly and follows the brief.
A place to begin
If you already have a competition in mind, start by reading its brief. If you want to build confidence first, try a practice exercise. The tools and guides work together, but you can use any of them on its own.
New to entering competitions?
The Clue journal includes a beginner’s guide, a practical entry checklist and an explanation of free draws and prize competitions. Start there if you want to understand the wider hobby before choosing a creative brief.