Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The New York Times Entry Title: Whales, From Above Entry Credit: Ellie Duke, Sutton Lynch Judge Comment: The mystique of the underwater world is revealed from the air. Sutton Lynch goes the opposite direction in documenting sea life by using dramatic drone footage and photography to give viewers an aesthetically eye-popping experience. With detailed captions and exquisite composition, Lynch shows us what is lurking beneath the surface where food and air collide. This work shows depth of knowledge in the subject matter and the technical feat it takes to document the world this way.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Outside Entry Title: The Wall of Death Is Still Alive, Thanks to These Devoted Riders Entry Credit: Jay Kolsch Judge Comment: This photo essay on the Wall of Death was an unexpected visual surprise. Jay Kolsch uses direct flash in black-and-white and color photos. Some images have an off-color post-production color cast. This frenetic use of mixed tonalities is fitting for the subject being documented — and that strong creative spirit and rare combination of photographic processes help communicate the edge where these riders live. Some of the photographs are works of art. The photographer’s observational skills show grit.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Afar Entry Title: Learning the Value of Slowing Down on Slovenia’s Juliana Trail Entry Credit: Julia Nimke Judge Comment: Photographer Julia Nimke’s visual approach to the Juliana Trail is one of quiet, soft eloquence. There’s a positive patience and reflection in this visual journal that comes through in each photo. These aren’t rushed. The opening image on a riverbed is a massive scenic shot, yet a child is paused in the bottom center. Nimke’s eye for composition and moment allows for that pause.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: The Washington Post Entry Title: The not-so-exclusive skating contest shredding Copenhagen Entry Credit: Linnea Bullion, Lauren Bulbin Judge Comment: This photo story is centered on a skating contest in Copenhagen. Linnea Bullion shreds and carves this interpretation of what a travel photo story can be. With an irreverent vision, Bullion shows a sense of place, action, friendship and fashion that defines this space. Employing the photographic skills of action, fashion and portraiture, the resulting photographs almost can be two stories in one.
