September Photo of the Month winners announced

October 2, 2021

SEPTEMBER WINNERS

First Place: Connor McLain, Liberty High School

Senior Wentric Williams III surveys the field moments before he takes the field against Lee’s Summit North. As the running back, Williams is an important part of the varsity football team, and is excited for the season to come. “We’re here to get, if anything, better than last season,” Williams said. (Connor McLain)

Judge’s Comments: Even though the viewer cannot see the subject’s face, this is a wonderful portrait of them that showcases them as an athlete and the environment of the stadium before a game. Having a selective focus on only the subject allows the viewer to almost feel the anticipation of the start of a game despite their being no clear emotion or action, and the background is clear of any distraction that would draw attention away from the subject. Additionally, the caption is well-written and provides enough details to explain the image.

Second Place: Xavier Thomas, University City High School

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race on Sept. 18 started with the balloon glow the night before. Balloons were scheduled to light up at 7 pm, but it was delayed about 20 minutes as a 3-year spectator was separated from her parents. The toddler was found and the park was lit up with the fire of the torches. “Once it gets dark it’s quite magical, and my daughter and her friend who I took with me loved it,” Erin Bratkowski, English teacher, said. “My daughter got to see images that she enjoyed including Fitz’s which is her favorite root beer place.” (Xavier Thomas)

Judge’s Comments: The repetition of the different balloons is fantastic in this image. It clearly provides enough context so the viewer knows what the event is, but there is a clear focus that is framed and exposed well despite being a difficult lighting situation. While the photographer could have also included the baskets of the balloons, leaving them out allows the viewer to just focus on the artwork/designs of the balloons.

Third Place: Desmond Kisida, Rock Bridge High School

Sophomore quarterback Louie Scardina returning to the sidelines amid a change of possession. (Desmond Kisida)

Judge’s Comments: This photographer did a wonderful job of finding a different angle with which to photograph their subject. By framing the subject with elements in the environment, it creates the feeling that the viewer is actually on the sidelines, and it also provides a unique look that many people might not ever get. Additionally, the picture is exposed well and has a clear focus. Adding a quote to the caption would help give a voice to the subject.

 

Honorable Mentions

154-ec3f5a2033e4d22ae20cc39c1a453db8_September_Photo_Of_the_Month
Gallery • 13 Photos
Cassie Ford, Staley
After being announced a top five queen candidate, senior Christiany Miller laughs in disbelief Sept. 17 as she is crowned by senior Hailey Gifford while senior Drew Mangold claps. Miller said she never thought she would have been nominated to be in the top 11, let alone top five. "It makes me feel good as a person to know that I have such a positive impact on my classmates," Miller said. "Definitely will tell my kids about this."