NLPA Critique Groups
A New Way to Learn, Connect, and Elevate Your Work
We’ve heard from many entrants that thoughtful feedback is one of the most valuable things a photography award can offer, and that so many don’t provide. At the Natural Landscape Photography Awards, we want to explore how we might achieve this and give you clearer insight into how the judges might receive your images. Over the past months, we’ve spoken with a number of entrants about how best to do this, and their enthusiasm convinced us we were on the right path. As such, we are launching NLPA Critique Groups!
We created NLPA Critique Groups to extend one of the most meaningful parts of the competition: thoughtful, honest feedback. We first introduced these after Year 1, but this time we are expanding the focus. While awards can recognize strong work, real growth often happens through conversation, context, and careful examination. These sessions are designed to give photographers clearer insight into how their images are read, interpreted, and evaluated, while fostering connection within the NLPA community.
Some winning images from NLPA
Each session brings together a small group of photographers in a live Zoom setting. Participants will share a curated selection of their images, typically five to seven photographs, and engage in a structured yet open discussion guided by NLPA judges. Rather than beginning with surface-level observations, we first take time to understand the intent behind each image, including decisions made in the field, compositional choices, and the story the photographer hoped to convey.
From there, we explore how effectively the image communicates that intent. Feedback addresses strengths as well as opportunities for refinement, touching on elements such as composition, light, timing, visual flow, and adherence to NLPA’s principles of truthful representation. When appropriate, we demonstrate subtle editing approaches to show how careful adjustments can enhance clarity and impact without compromising integrity.
These sessions are intentionally collaborative. After the primary critique, other participants are encouraged to share their observations, creating a shared learning experience rather than a competitive one. Listening to the review of other photographers’ work, especially across different subjects and styles, often proves just as valuable as receiving feedback on your own images.
In addition to sessions led by NLPA organizers, we plan to regularly invite guest photographers, including past winners and judges, to contribute their perspectives. We’re fortunate to be connected with many respected voices in natural landscape photography, and these sessions allow participants to benefit from a wider range of experience and insight.
We recommend setting aside four hours to fully participate, though recordings ensure nothing is missed. Once registered, participants will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare and what to expect.
Our goal is to create a constructive, respectful environment where photographers can deepen their understanding of their work, learn from others, and continue raising the standard of natural landscape photography together.
Testimonials From NLPA Critique Groups
“Every dollar and every minute was worth it. The NLPA critique group goes far beyond a typical competition experience, offering thoughtful, nuanced feedback, real-time edits, and diverse perspectives in a welcoming, non-pretentious environment. I felt seen, challenged, and inspired, and I walked away energized and excited to keep growing as a photographer.”
Ingrid Arnett
“I joined the NLPA Critique Group hosted by Matt Payne and Tim Parkin and was genuinely impressed by the depth and quality of the experience.Despite the small, intimate group setting, there was a wide range of work and perspectives, and every image was approached with the same level of care and seriousness. The feedback was thoughtful and practical, broadening my understanding not only on my own work, but also through the way we collectively viewed and discussed each other’s images and approaches. We spent over four and a half hours together, yet the time flew by—an inspiring exchange of perspectives throughout.”Nohemy Habibe
“Two big thumbs up. The NLPA critique group was professional, informative, inclusive, and genuinely fun. The mix of skill levels and perspectives made the feedback incredibly valuable, from big-picture ideas to subtle refinements, and the structure kept everyone engaged throughout. I learned not only how to improve my images, but also how to thoughtfully approach critique itself. A truly worthwhile way to spend a Sunday.”
Patrick Krohn
“I can highly recommend this critique session to anyone wanting to improve their photography. Matt and Tim gave great feedback and insights into our images as well as explaining to the group how the NLPA selection process works. It was valuable to see the feedback to the other photographers in the critique as this opened my eyes to a wide range of images, experience levels, along with each individual’s unique perspectives.”
Bryan Nelson
FAQ about NLPA Critique Groups
Why should I join an NLPA Critique Group?
Critique Groups provide direct, expert feedback that can help you refine your composition, fieldcraft, and editing choices. You also learn from seeing how others approach the craft, expanding your perspective and developing new ideas for your own work.
Who leads these sessions?
Sessions are hosted by NLPA organizers and occasionally feature invited guest photographers, including past judges and award-winning entrants. Each brings unique expertise and a strong commitment to the truthful representation of the natural world.
Why do the sessions cost money?
These groups require experienced photographers to dedicate several hours to reviewing and presenting thoughtful critique. The cost helps fairly compensate instructors and covers administration and scheduling for the program.
I can’t attend these. Will there be more sessions added?
YES. Once these fill, we will add more sessions.
How many photos can I share?
Each participant may bring 5 to 7 images you’ve previously entered into NLPA, depending on the size of the group. This allows time for meaningful discussion and personalized feedback for everyone in the session.
How long do sessions last?
We recommend blocking 3 to 4 hours so you can participate in most or all of the session. Every moment is packed with learning opportunities.
Do I need to attend the entire session?
It is highly encouraged, but we know schedules can be tricky. You are welcome to stay as long as you can. A recording will be sent to all participants afterward.
What if I cannot attend?
Payments are non-refundable because space is limited and sessions often sell out. However, if you are unable to attend live, you will still receive the full recording.
How do editing suggestions fit within NLPA rules?
Feedback focuses on subtle, skillful refinements that remain faithful to the scene. Suggestions are always aligned with NLPA principles that celebrate the power of realistic and ethical landscape photography.
Can I enter images into the competition that have been critiqued?
As long as we haven’t edited the images ourselves, you may enter the images. If either of our critique providers recognizes an image during the first rounds, we will recuse ourselves from the judging process for that image, letting the remaining judges provide the assessment.
Is this only for advanced photographers?
Not at all. Enthusiasts at every skill level benefit from focused critique and structured conversation. The only requirement is a desire to grow.
Will my work be judged harshly?
Never. The environment is supportive, positive, and designed to help you improve. We critique the image, not the photographer.
Will I get to interact with others?
Yes. Group discussion is a key part of the experience. Photographers from different backgrounds bring valuable perspectives that lead to inspiring and thoughtful collaboration.
How do I prepare before joining?
Once you register, you will receive simple instructions to organize and upload your selected images so we can focus on reviewing and discussing them together.