FAQ

Please review submission guidelines and read our FAQ before submitting a question.

 

A Picture and a Thousand Words responds to COVID-19

We feel that it’s important to continue to inspire and be inspired despite (or perhaps because of) current events. We also recognize that circumstances may change, and we are prepared to reschedule or restructure our annual event if appropriate to do so. 

What is the purpose of this event?

A Picture and a Thousand Words brings local artists together and provides a space where people who normally don’t get to showcase their work can shine in the spotlight. We welcome people of all social, racial and gender backgrounds and believe in inclusion. We hope to bring people together, form new friendships and networks, and add another layer to the local art scene. 

Who chooses the photos and writing?

The Picture and a Thousand Words team reviews and considers each submission. We curate the words and images that make a great presentation. We look for interesting composition and diverse voices in both the photo and the writing. We do our best to make a compelling program.

Do I have to be a professional writer or photographer to submit a piece?

No. Writers and photographers of all levels are welcome.

How do I submit a photo?

Click Submit Your Photo in the Navigation bar. You’ll be directed to a page where you provide a title for your photo (“Untitled” is fine for a title), upload the photo and submit it. 

How do I submit writing?

Click Photo Submissions to view all of the photos that have been submitted to date. Check back, as new photos are being submitted all the time. Click on a photo to select it, then use the Comment Form to submit your writing. Just cut-and-paste your 1000 words into the comment box and submit. That’s it!

What is the submission deadline?

Submission deadlines are noted on the photo and writing submission pages with the submission guidelines.

Why do you need my email address?

E-mail is the primary mode of communication for A Picture and a Thousand Words. Don’t worry, we hate spam as much as you do, and will never sell, rent, or distribute your email address to a third party without your permission. We send email communications about event schedules and submission deadlines. Use our Contact Us form if you wish to opt out of any of these communications.

How do I find out if my photo/piece has been selected?  

Selected photographers and writers will be notified via email in early July. 

If I’m unavailable, can someone else read for me?

We encourage you to read your own piece, but we can be flexible. If someone else reads in your place, you must still attend the event.

Can I submit both a photo and a written work?

Yes, but you cannot write on your own photo.

Can I submit more than one written piece?

Yes.

Can I submit more than one photo?

Yes.

Can I submit after the deadline?

No.

Can I submit a piece that has more than 1,000 words?

No.

Do I have to be at the event?

Absolutely yes.

How will I know if a photo is “taken?”

Click the photo from the Photo Submissions page. There is a counter indicating the number of submissions for that image. A zero means no one has submitted anything for that photo yet. 

Can children or teens submit a photo or a written piece?

Yes. In fact, we welcome them to do so! Please be aware that because our venue is a bar, anyone underage must be accompanied by an adult to attend the event.

I’ve never read in front of an audience before. Will I be able to get some tips on how to do this?

Yes.

Do photographers have to get up and speak in front of the audience?

Yes. We want to hear your reaction to the written work that is connected to your photo.

Is there a prize?

No. The award is an opportunity to present your work. There is a gift for each presenter.

What is the best way to communicate with A Picture and a Thousand Words? 

Please use our contact form if you need to communicate with us. Messages are monitored regularly, and we will respond as soon as we’re able. 

How can I help A Picture and a Thousand Words continue to be successful?

We’re glad you asked! The future of A Picture and a Thousand Words survives because of word of mouth. So talk it up! Tell all your friends about the event – mention it on social media, at meetups, writing groups, photography groups, classes at high school or universities, etc. Invite friends to submit photos or writing, and let us know if you’d like us to reach out to any media contacts you may have or organizations that may be interested. We want to reach as many people as possible. 

Volunteer opportunities are also available. We always need extra hands who can help distribute postcards advertising the event, help with our marketing and communication efforts, and assist at the event. Use our Contact Us form if you are interested in volunteering.

Donations are always appreciated to help defray internet hosting, printing, and event-related expenses. A Picture and a Thousand Words is presented by Write-A-Pic, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit, and any donation is fully deductible to the extent allowed by law. Use our Contact Us form if you wish to make a donation. Online donations are still under construction.