February Photo of the Month winners announced

FEBRUARY WINNERS

First Place: Humberto Bermudez, Staley

Senior Chloe Sheckells wrestles senior Aiva Mayer from Carrollton High School during the MSHSAA Girls District 4 Tournament Feb. 5. Sheckells won the match at Oak Park High School. (Humberto Bermudez, Staley)

Judge’s Comments: The photographer did a nice job of framing their subjects so they follow rule of thirds, but the intensity is what makes this image. Between the main subject’s facial expression and the strain of the opponent’s hands, the viewer can get a clear sense of how hard the two athletes are competing.

Second Place: Zoe Yim, Smithville

Kali Brown(12) starts off the game with the jump ball. Brown prepares for the season by playing on a competitive basketball team year-round and going to summer open gyms. “My favorite part is playing with my friends and winning big games. We all play together very well and I think this group gets along very well with each other,” said Brown. (Zoe Yim, Smithville)

Judge’s Comments: The clarity on this image is fantastic, and no bit of the action is missed. The photographer did a nice job of framing their subjects so they are not cut off at all, though the cropping could be a bit tighter. The caption also gives voice to the subject.

Third Place: Lydia Urice, Webster Groves

Students, teachers and community members plunge into Creve Coeur Lake on Feb. 19, to raise money for the Special Olympics. The Polar Plunge was organized by Special Olympics of Missouri and Best Buddies. (Lydia Urice, Webster Groves)

Judge’s Comments: Though the framing is a bit off (feet are cut off), there is a nice leading line in this image with the repeated action. The exposure is also done well and allows the audience to see the detail in the water that is kicked up.

Honorable Mentions