Our Winter 2021 Click Magazine photo contest theme was “slice of life” and we definitely got some amazing entries. But of all the amazing photos, the judges chose three winners. We thought you might like to hear why these images stood out, so we’ve asked the photo contest judges Wendi Matt of Greenville, South Carolina and Leah Barad from Kirkland, Washington to share a few thoughts.
Congratulations to first place winner, Bree Friesen from Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada, and to all of these amazingly talented female photographers!
Bree Friesen
“Joyful Relief”
Gear & Settings: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV + EF 35mm f/1.4 II USM lens + Canon flash; f/1.8, 1/200, ISO 125
Q: WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT THE WINNING PHOTO?
Wendi: The first thing I notice in this image is connection. Bree’s decision to capture this moment is important because all three subjects are touching. The expression on the subjects’ faces emit joy, the touch of the partner’s hand on mom’s arm, and the look of relief and joy on mom’s face all invite the viewer in to celebrate this momentous occasion.
Portrait mode was a great choice because it left out all distractions and allows the viewer to focus on the moment. Lastly, in what could have been a difficult lighting situation, the position of the subjects allows the light to land beautifully, creating depth and contrast that are visually pleasing.
Leah: There is nothing more beautiful and real than the connection and joy captured in the winning image “Joyful Relief.” Those of us that have been there remember this moment in our lives so well and this image transports me right back to that time. I also love the composition — the way their arms and bodies create a circle keeps the viewer in the moment.
This is an image that will both be cherished by the subjects and adored by others.
SECOND PLACE
Lindsay Leslie
“Untitled”
Barre, Massechusets
lindsaylesliephotography.com
Gear & Settings: Nikon D750 + 50mm f/1.4 lens; f/2, 1/640, ISO 250
Q: WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS PHOTO?
Wendi: The direct eye gaze in this image draws me in and allows me, the viewer, to feel connected right away. The sun flare behind the subject is beautiful and adds a dramatic effect. Lindsay’s choice to use blur and movement adds depth and drama to this portrait, creating a dreamy feeling that only enhances the most important part of this image — the connection to the subject’s eyes.
Leah: I was so intrigued by the second place portrait. The subtle eye gaze is simply captivating. Plus you have that gorgeous flare and the wind blowing through her hair. The mystery in this image makes me want to know more about the subject.
THIRD PLACE
Anet Kava
“Time for Tea”
Bedford, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
Instagram @anetkava.photography
Gear & Settings: Contax 645 + 80mm Carl Zeiss Planar T* 80mm f/2.0 lens; Fujifilm Pro 400H film; 1/60 at f/2.8
Q: WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS PHOTO?
Wendi: This image invokes a sense of nostalgia and connection I feel with my own grandmother. The moodiness of the lighting makes me feel the quietness of the moment and the pattern of the light adds visual interest. The fact that we cannot see the subject’s face allows the viewer to insert any of our grandmothers into this spot.
Leah: I simply adore “Time for Tea”. I was instantly drawn to those lines of light. I also love how the background fades to shadow, really highlighting the woman and her tea. This image is an amazing example of how to capture a simple moment beautifully.
