Sounds like Geist residents experienced some fun this summer in places near and far! Thanks to all who entered our “What I did on my summer vacation” photo contest.
The hands-down winner this time was “Panama City Beach Gulls” by Sheree Hedrick, picked as the first-place entry by three out of five judges. Congratulations to Sheree, who will receive a night for two at the Old Northside Inn Bed and Breakfast!
Sheree’s action photo of feasting gulls was captured while her family was on vacation in Florida this July. Here’s the “inside scoop” on the Cheetos-eating sea gull:
“We took a ferry to Shell Island,” Sheree explains. “ As soon as the boat took off, the gulls were everywhere! The kids ran down to the gulley to buy snacks…as you can see the Cheetos were a hit! I have many more photos of the birds…but this one seemed to capture the ‘chaos!’”
Here are a few of the judge’s comments on Sheree’s First Place photo:
- The focus and precision to get this perfect moment caught my eye instantly. The timing could not have been more perfect! — Kelly Wilson (Bella Pictures photography consultant)
- This photo demands your attention. You could not have posed the birds any nicer. Great composition, great story. — Brenda Staples (Brenda Staples Photography)
- This is a fabulous action shot! A common beach scene skillfully captured with uncommon timing and composition. — Laura Gates (Managing Editor, atGeist.com)
2nd Place – “Thunder Mountain” by Christy Colbert
The story behind the photo:
“We took a trip to Disney World in Orlando, and my 4-year-old son was so excited to finally be tall enough to ride the Big Thunder Mountain roller coaster!”
Judge’s Comment: The expressions on their faces are priceless! No fear, just fun! — Sarah Reimmuth (The New Creative)
3rd Place – “Italy 2008” by JoEllen DiMartino
Judge’s comment: This scenic photograph really portrays the image of Italy. The texture of the water helps make the image dynamic. — Anne Anderson (FotoWonder)
Honorable Mentions
“Cedar Point” by Gregg Pellicone
Judge’s comment: Good times for sure. Fun subjects! Nice composition. I like that you kept this vertical. — Brenda Staples
“Cobles”
Judge’s comment: This memory will last a lifetime. Beautiful colors and beautiful faces. — Sarah Reimmuth
“Vietnam Memorial” by Mary Pat Young
The story behind the photo: “Our trip to Washington DC – shows my son Jackson taking a picture at the Vietnam Memorial, shows our reflection in the photo.”
Judge’s comment: I like the symbolism in this photo. We are all a reflection of the names on that wall. — Brenda Staples
To see all photo contest entries, please visit the atGeist.com Photo Album and view the “Vacation” set.