Photographic competitions occur monthly and are focussed toward pre-selected categories and within three different member groups. Descriptions of our competitions can be found within our Competitions Page. Our competitions are a means for members to expand and improve their photographic art and stimulate discussion within our membership

Our most recent competiton was Creative photography. "Creative" is the only category that allows altered reality. If fact, it is required. It is intended for imaginative, artistic effects not otherwise possible in photography. The final image should demonstrate originality of concept and/or imagination and must be based on the photographer’s original photograph(s), with modifications made exclusively by the photographer. Images must include some alteration of reality, done either in post-processing or in the camera or both. This category is free from the restrictions of the other competition categories.

This competition was judged by Eduardo Fujii and, discussion and awards were presented on January 17, 2024.

There are three competition groups within Padre Trails Camera Club labeled Red, Green and Blue. Each Club member is placed within one of these competition groups in order to fairly distribute members into competitive peer-groups. This is intended to level the competition field, giving everyone a more equal opportunity to succeed in our monthly competitions. At the beginning of each new Club year, members are grouped into competition peer-groups based on their adjusted average star score from the preceding year. Prospective new members may select a peer group placement where they may feel most comfortable in competing.