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 a Creative competition directed toward Black & White. "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. Imagination and originality of concept are paramount. This competition was judged by Rachel Short and, discussion and awards were presented on June 17, 2024.

There are three competition groups within Padre Trails Camera Club labeled Red, Green and Blue. This is a peer-grouping mix that has been established to more fairly distribute club members and level the competitive field, giving everyone a more equal opportunity to suceed in our monthly competitions. Club members have been distributed within each of these peer groups based upon their previous year scoring of images by our judges. The groupings will be re-calculated at the end of each Club year by averaging the star rating of each submitted image. Prospective new members may select a peer group placement where that may feel most comfortable in competing.