"A River, creek, or stream should be a major component within the composition."

What is the judging criteria for "major component"?

But remember the theme is Down by the River...

Maybe, I shot my baby... at least I hope with a camera.

Of which the creek is one part.......

So, I let my non-photographer hubby pick mine! Can you tell????

Might go down to the San Diego river estuary, that might be fun.

I love it when new folks get the entering a contest "fever". It's so much fun.
I was a rank amateur when I started entering, in the fall contest 4 years ago. I've learned so much I'm only an amateur now.

I got photos, but nothing that spectacular, of the estuary that is. I caught a squirrel though.

And I like them!

Luckily we have a few springs that seem partially immune to drought.

It's dry, very dry, here...

As my old Army drill sergeant beat into me, "If you ain't cheatin', you ain't tryiin'!"

How do you know I didn't?