Judges Comments

First Place: This was really solid photo coverage. Funerals are emotional experiences for families, friends and colleagues, presenting a challenge in having everyone feel comfortable with a camera photographing these vulnerable moments. A variety of wide and tight images demonstrates that this photographer was willing to move around the scene, get close and build the trust needed to memorialize this loss. Second Place: This image evokes a rather timeless feeling. Good angle of view with an eye for subject placement. Third place: Several courtroom stories were submitted this month, but we felt that this quiet moment best captured the emotion. A tight crop and framing allow the viewer to sit alongside this family member. The tiny details in this image help set it apart. We see him clenching his hand, a supportive hand on his shoulder, and people looking towards him at his reaction. Sharp focus and good timing during a sensitive moment. Honorable Mention: This was a really nice, found moment that captures a genuine and playful atmosphere that’s often lacking in today’s political climate. Amidst curated candidates and planned events, It’s important to keep an eye out. We appreciated the photographer noticing this and waiting for a moment that played well between the three subjects. Category notes: Another strong category this month! Some things to note about images that we did not select. Focus is important. Pay attention to the actual plane of focus when submitting. Cropping is also useful at times. We had some very strong contenders that needed a tighter crop to bring the viewer into the image where the photographer intended us to look. Wait for the moment! We had a really great sunset shot, but there wasn’t enough peak action or faces toward us to compete with some of the images that placed. Very strong submissions that took multiple passes from judges this month.