The subject of "Shadows" is an interesting one
because of the way shadows are perceived by most people. Until they
have to photograph one, or draw one, the average person does not
see a shadow as an object. For beginning photographers, this often results
in ruined compositions because they did not see it in their
viewfinder when they took the picture. It takes some experience for
early learners to discover that the shape of a shadow has as much impact
on the image as the form that might be creating it.
Even more advanced photographers often scoff at
being given the subject of shadows as a theme for their shooting.
They, also, may underestimate the impact of the shape of a shadow on a
composition. The first reaction to the theme is that it is too easy
and thus not worth their time. It takes entries like the ones we
received for this contest to wake up some of these jaded individuals
to realize that shadow as subject can result in some of the
strongest images in their portfolios.
We chose the image named "Shadow_sit",
by
André Pina Moreira Boto of
Portugal, as the Grand Prize winner. This was a difficult decision as
André
also had another image that was also a close competitor for Grand
Prize. Clearly, Boto is one who appreciates and is able to capture
the power of the shadow.
We found this image to be
extremely strong. The shadow of the bench is not the only subject of
this image, but because of the lighting and the placement of the
bench within shadow, the whole image is about shadow. This is what
made this entry stand out amongst the others. An individual shadow
or a pattern of shadows was not the main point of the image. Rather,
the use of shadow and light, and the balance of the two to create
an entire image, made it different from most of the other entries.
This is truly a beautiful image. The use of black and white as a
medium made it even more so.
Another strong image is
David A.
Silverstein's image,
"Stairway
Abstraction".
Here we see how a shadow can produce Line that then creates Pattern.
This is a cleverly crafted image, with wonderful balance and a
composition that keeps the viewer interested. Line usually moves us
through an image and that is the case here. Also the shapes created
by the shadows are also interesting and draw the interest of the
viewer, as he tries to make sense of what he is seeing. This is an
image that will keep you coming back again and again.
Second runner-up is "Painting", by Bob
Gates. This is a deceptively simple composition that shows again how
Line can move the viewer's eye through an image. I like the
placement of the figure and his resulting shadow. I also like the
stark black and white of this photo and its beautiful balance. And as I listen to some terrific jazz while I write this,
I realize how much the photo reminds me of music notes on a page.
This is another image that would look great in any home or office.
Congratulations to the Honorable Mentions in this
contest. All of your images demonstrated good technical and artistic
abilities.
Click on each image to see larger version.
All images
copyrighted by the individual photographers. All Rights Reserved.
These images are for your viewing pleasure only and not be downloaded
for any other purpose.
