Photographic competitions occur monthly and are focussed toward pre-selected categories and within three different member groups. Descriptions of our competitions can be found within our Competitions Page. Our competitions are a means for members to expand and improve their photographic art and stimulate discussion within our membership

Our most recent competiton was a Nature competition directed towards "Macros". Nature photography is the use of the photographic process to depict all branches of natural history, except anthropology and archaeology, The visual message of the photograph is considered more important than the technical considerations but high image quality is essential. The Nature competition is based on the Photographic Society of America definition

This competition was judged by Richard Cannon and, discussion and awards were presented on March 20, 2024.

There are three competition groups within Padre Trails Camera Club labeled Red, Green and Blue. Each Club member is placed within one of these competition groups in order to fairly distribute members into competitive peer-groups. This is intended to level the competition field, giving everyone a more equal opportunity to succeed in our monthly competitions. At the beginning of each new Club year, members are grouped into competition peer-groups based on their adjusted average star score from the preceding year. Prospective new members may select a peer group placement where they may feel most comfortable in competing.