As a photographic society, one of CAPA’s most important roles is to nurture and encourage photographers at all levels to increase their knowledge and expertise in the art. One way we do this is through our Judging Program.

To ensure that those entering CAPA competitions have their images evaluated by judges who have expertise in several genres of photography and are also trained in good judging techniques, CAPA offers a Judge Training and Certification Program.

Basic Training for New Judges

Originally created in Western Canada, judging courses have evolved and grown to encompass new trends, technology and techniques. In the fall of 2025, CAPA introduced a major revision to judge training. This update expands upon the previous course, providing a more comprehensive experience and making access easier for people regardless of their geographic location.

Judge Certification Program 

CAPA members who wish to continue their training to become a CAPA Certified Judge may apply to participate in the Judge Certification Program after completing Basic Training for New Judges.

The purpose of the Judge Certification Program is to provide further training and practical experience for new judges.

The goals are to:

1. ensure judges are familiar with and meet the CAPA Judging Standards, 
2. facilitate candidates achieving the distinction of CAPA Certified Judge, and
3. to ensure consistency in the judging process by creating a pool of judges experienced in several genres of photography and trained in good judging techniques.

When a candidate has met the requirements of the program, they will be granted certification as a CAPA Certified Judge.

CAPA Certified Judges must undergo refresher training every five years in order to maintain their certification.

Monitoring Program

Another component of the Judging Program is Monitoring. The monitoring program is a means of maintaining the Judging Standards and to provide ongoing improvement to the Judging Program by observing the judging process as it applies to CAPA competitions. The program is carried out in cooperation with the Director of Competitions, and with the help of certified judges having extensive experience judging CAPA competitions.

If you would like further information please contact Bill Hall, Director of the Judging Program, at judgingdirector@capacanada.ca