How do you define a professional photographer?

A professional photographer makes more than half of his or her infomr from photography and regularly publishes photographs in magazines, books, newspapers or online.

Is there an entry fee?

There is no entry fee.

Will my photos be returned?

Prints will be returned at Nature & Eye Reveal, a day of photographic displays and demonstrations for participants on May 6, 2006. Photos on disk will not be returned.

How many photos may I enter?

Each entrant may submit two photographs into each category for which he or she is eligible.Only persons under the age of 18 may enter the youth category.

Can I enter a photograph if I no longer have the negative?

If a photograph taken on film does not have a slide or negative, it can not be entered into the contest.

Photographs taken with a digital camera are exempt from this requirement and may be entered.

Can photos be cropped?

Yes.

Can photos be manipulated, enhanced, framed or mounted?

No.

What do you mean by "enhanced" or "altered"?

Anything that falls under the realm of normal fine-tuning of a photograph is acceptable. That includes spot-toning, dodging and burning, or the digital equivalents. Contrast adjustment and color adjustment are acceptable. If our judges see that a photo has obviously altered by the photographer, they have the right to disqualify it.

Can I submit panoramic photos?

No.

What rights to my photos do I retain?

You retain your rights to your photos. However, by entering the contest, you grant the San Diego Union-Tribune the right to publish your submitted photos in print or electronic form in uses associated with this contest.

Where can I send questions or feedback?

You can call (619) 299-3131, ext. 1745 or send an e-mail to nature-eye@uniontrib.com.