Rules

Scoring criteria, submission rules, and fair-play guidelines

Stay together, stay safe

Walk in the group and regroup at each checkpoint. Watch for traffic and do not block paths, doorways, or tram stops.

Ask before you shoot

Every portrait needs permission first. If someone says no, thank them and move on — no pressure, no second ask.

Ask before we post their portrait

After a portrait, ask if VisionArise may share it on social media. If they say no, keep it personal — do not share it with the group or online.

No minors without a guardian

Do not photograph children or teens unless a parent or guardian is there and agrees to the photo and any social use.

You may appear in event photos

By joining, you agree that photos or video of you during the walk may be used on VisionArise social media. Tell the organizer at the start if you prefer not to be featured.

Tasks

Goals, scored challenges, and objectives for participants to complete

First Yes

Ask one stranger for a portrait. Keep it simple: find soft light on their face, shoot at eye level, and focus on the eyes. One frame that feels honest beats ten rushed ones.

Set the Frame

Ask a stranger, then take a minute to compose before you click. Move them one step for cleaner light or a simpler background. Watch for lines growing out of their head — a half-step left or right often fixes it.

Two Strangers

Portrait two different strangers in one walk. Change something clearly between them — the person, the spot, or the light. Same corner and same setup twice does not count.

Locations

Zones, checkpoints, and areas to visit during the challenge

Prizes

Top scorer prizes, category awards, and raffle giveaways

Gallery feature

Showcase your winning photograph on the VisionArise gallery page.

Prize for placement 1

Featured Photographer

Winning image showcased on VisionArise’s homepage and social media gallery.

Prize for placement 2

Best Ask

For the portrait that shows the strongest connection with the subject — not just the sharpest frame.

Group vote at wrap-up among portraits where the subject agreed to social sharing.

Portrait of the Day

Your winning portrait is featured on the VisionArise Exhibition page and highlighted in the Cluj Portrait Session community page — shared with the local photography community as the standout frame from this walk.

Prize for placement 4