Midwest – November 2019 – Photo Story/Essay

Judges Comments

This was a strong category despite a relatively small number of entries. The judges admired the controlled color palette of the FIRST PLACE- winner and were especially impressed with the in-depth captions that showed care in the reporting of the details of the story. The caption information was clearly drawn from very good interviews, and the judges loved the inclusion of quotes in the captions. This story went out of its way to develop individual characters within the group. The photographer put in the time to build the rapport necessary to achieve a number of intimate moments with subtle and powerful storytelling effect. SECOND PLACE-What a great human interest story! The photographer does what good journalists should took – they take us behind the scenes to humanize the headlines through intimate moments. The photographer planned well to be present for significant moments which advanced the story. Careful editing and sequencing elevated seemingly insignificant moments (the selection of shirts) to significance (when the shirts reappeared in the courtroom). THIRD PLACE-The photographer found a way to convey the magic and romance of a family on its own terms. The inclusion of quotes in the captions gave the girls even more voice and allowed the audience further access into their world. The story showed thoughtful sequencing, which deepens our understanding from one picture to the next.

Judges: Thorne Anderson/University of North Texas, Danny Fulgencio/Advocate Magazine, Christena Dowsett/Independent