Every year I enter the Intermountain Professional photographer Association's (IPPA) annual print competition. This year was no exception. The IPPA's event is the beginning step as I work my way up to the Professional Photographer of America's (PPA) International Print Competition (IPC). The purpose of print competition is to stretch yourself and make yourself a better photographer. Oh it's fun to get awards and receive accolades from your good friends and peers, but the important thing is your own personal development. I'm a much better photographer than I was ten years ago. That is the reason I compete in the IPPA annual print competition. Wish me luck as I move on to IPC.