Return to Competition Requirements

1. Statement on AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Image Creation and Ownership

Adapted from PSA Statement

In all sections of the exhibition, images must originate as photographs made by the entrant. They may not incorporate identifiable images produced by anyone else (for example: clip art, replacement skies, or stock images). Images created in whole or in part by image creation software (frequently called ‘AI’ images) are not allowed. Editing or alteration of images is permitted within the limits specified in the relevant section definitions and, for the reaiity divisions, here.

Any person submitting or attempting to submit a totally AI generated image that does not begin with a light capture from the maker shall be subject to disciplinary action by the S4C Board up to and including being banned from further S4C participation.

2. Statement on Subject Matter

Adapted from PSA Statement

The fundamental rule that must be observed at all times and applies to all sections offered in S4C com[petitions is that the welfare of living creatures is more important than any photograph. This means that practices such as baiting of subjects with a living creature and removal of birds from nests, for the purpose of obtaining a photograph, are highly unethical, and such photographs are not allowed in any S4C competitions. Under no circumstances may a living creature be placed in a situation where it will be killed, injured or stressed for the purpose of obtaining a photograph. Images that show live creatures being fed to captive animals, birds or reptiles are not permitted under any circumstances.

There are also concerns about the use of aerial photography, drones, helicopters, low flying aircraft. These should not cause any interference with other individuals or animals which causes a disturbance in their normal activity or disrupt the way any individuals or animals or interact with their environment. Entrants in S4C competitions must comply with all relevant laws and regulations, associated with aerial photography, in the country in which the image was taken. 

Entry into S4C competitions is conditional on accepting these policies. The content of images must comply with the General Conditions and with the Division and Section definitions listed in these conditions. Images that - in the sole opinion of the judges or the Exhibition Organizers - do not comply, will be disqualified in accordance with S4C's disqualification policies (see here and here).