The judges called this image a "believable fantasy, " citing its excellent composition and a whimsical feeling.
Ben began creating this image at the 2012 Imaging USA as he was inspired by the awesome artwork that he saw to try to create a more conceptual piece. For Ben, photography is the opportunity to study beauty of all kinds. It allows him to explore why the line of a cheekbone, the texture of hair, the angle of an arm can look completely stunning or mundanely average with only the slightest of changes.
The judges felt this image demonstrated amazing skill both photographically and artistically. This image has beautiful lines, powerful composition and excellent tones.
According to Peter, this image was created because of his love of cars especially from the 1920 to 1960 timeframe. He's been a "car-guy" from an early age. "Photography has been my profession and my passion for the last 30 plus years. I have been involved in photography stating with a 4x5 Speed Graphic camera to today using digital cameras. For the last 10 years I have concentrated on commercial images and architectural clients and now have begun trying to photographic classic cars for collectors. Photography has been a wonderful and rewarding profession and I hope to continue it for many years even as the profession is going through many changes due to the digital revolution."
The judges said this image was "an exquisite art piece with wonderful color tones." They felt the artist's use of complementary colors worked well for this image, creating a softness where it was needed.
When asked what photography means to her, Dorma said, "Influence of an artist aunt and a trip to Steamboat, CO with a camera in 2001 was all I needed to realize that I could 'paint' better with a camera than I could on a canvas. I fell in love with the learning opportunities and challenges that photography offered me. I am fortunate that my photography family includes some of the finest photographers in our creative world. The schools, classes, workshops, seminars, etc. have stimulated my brain and creative juices. I have gained self-confidence in my abilities and love it when my clients are delighted with their family portraits or with a fine art piece. Photography soothes my soul."
The judges felt this image told a strong story with an emotional impact and that it had beautiful light.
Jim's inspiration for this image came from experiencing life in a third-world country. After making his fourth trip to Haiti, Jim put his life into perspective. Realizing that without hope, love and faith… we are nothing. When asked what photography means to him he wrote this:
Let us not forget the unique profession that we are blessed to be part of. With just a click of a shutter I have the power to make a lifelong statement.
- I have the ability to bring a story to life
- I can make people think
- I can make people laugh
- I can make people cry
- I can inspire
