Northwest – September 2026 – Photo Story/Essay

Judges Comments

This was the category’s only entry, but the judges found it strong and deserving of first place. The series builds a vivid sense of Red Rocks and the climb, with emotionally resonant moments and details—including the flag, participants’ faces and ID cards—that deepen the story of those lost on 9/11. The images also convey the physical toll and exhaustion of the climb; the panel felt the fifth photo could be removed and noted that a nearby railing is distracting in one frame.

Judges: Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman, Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman, Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman