Color Image is eligible for the Pictorial Arranged Color section if the element(s) of the image are to a considerable extent controlled by the maker or another person(s) present for the purpose.

This applies whether or not the image is acquired indoors – such as in a formal studio setting – or outdoors in a natural or artificial environment. The arrangeable elements include but are not limited to: the lighting*, including the use of reflectors and diffusers; the arrangement of people, animals, or objects; props; backgrounds; makeup; or apparel. They do not include any elements introduced in the post-processing of the captured image.
* The use of fill-flash alone is not considered arranged lighting.

For example, posed portraits and arranged still lifes – whether taken indoors or outdoors – fall within this definition. Also, images of light-painted rocks are considered arranged images even though only a single element may be controlled. However, flora shot in natural settings during the day with just the use of diffusers or reflectors are notconsidered to be arranged images.

Monochrome images** are not permitted in this Pictorial Arranged Color Section. Furthermore, images eligible for entry into this Pictorial Arranged Color Section are not permitted in the Pictorial Individual Color Section.

The content is otherwise unrestricted. All forms of post-processing compatible with the General Requirements are permitted, provided the "arranged" origin is dominant and evident to the judges. Such post-processing is not considered part of what qualifies the images as arranged. 

In particular, color images eligible for the Pictorial Creative section are permitted provided the "arranged" origin is dominant and evident to the judges.

Pictorial Arranged Color images are judged both for their technical and pictorial merit. The image must be properly exposed, be appropriately in focus, and have appropriate depth of field. A Pictorial Arranged Color image should have strong compositionpleasing quality, and color impact.

In the event of any doubt whether an image belongs in the Individual or the corresponding Arranged category, judges are instructed to give the benefit of the doubt to the maker of the image, and only to DQ the image if they believe beyond a reasonable doubt that the image does not belong in the entered category. If an image is DQed in one category, the Competition Chair will make sure that it is not subsequently DQed in the other category for the same reason. 

** Monochrome images are those that give the impression of being black and white, or black and white plus one fully-toned color (that is, a single color applied across the entire image). Spot color images are not monochrome images.