Photo Show (40): February,2022

2021

Feb 1

About

The Photo show is an annual show that takes place in February. It is open to all photographers in North West Ohio and within a 150 mile radius of Findlay. All images must originate in a camera and be taken by the photographer entering the work. Work must never have been exhibited in a prior Photo show or Juried show at FAL. This show is open to those photographers who are 18 years and older. Thank You to the Sponsors of this Show: FASTSIGNS: Best of Show and Loan Depot: First Place

Judge’s Statement

First I want to extend a thank you to all those who submitted to this year’s Photo Show! I greatly enjoyed having the opportunity to see and review all your work.

The word photography comes from two Greek words: “Photo” which means light, and “graph” which means draw. From this we could say that photography is the act of drawing with light. I am always deeply moved by an image’s quality of light, and its ability to drive a narrative within a still image. This quality is behind this year’s Photo Show award choices.

Best of Show Judges Comments

The image selected for Best of Show uses light in such an ethereal way, creating an otherworldly softness and sense of peace. This peace is what struck me the most, especially while we continue to live through a global pandemic, it is something I feel we need the most in our day-to-day lives.

1st Place Judges Comments

The First-Place image is quite the opposite, using a harsh and dramatic light to highlight key aspects of a deeper narrative. We can feel this woman’s contemplation even though we cannot see her whole expression. We may even begin to feel a sense of concern for her as she intently stares at the revolver in her hand.

2nd Place Judges Comments

The Second-Place image uses a minimal amount of light to document this man in a place where he feels comfortable. How many of us can relate to this image? Surrounded by memorabilia from our lives, and the copious amounts of work we often allow to take precedence, working next to the bare minimum amount of light. Relatable narratives are often the most powerful.

3rd Place Judges Comments

The image chosen for Third Place displays a raw grittiness that is incredibly striking. The contrast of the rigid texture amidst the smooth water droplets depicts a struggle in a common setting. This struggle is accentuated using light – the bright lights and deep darks create their own narrative along with the varying textures.

Honorable Mention Judges Comments

Lastly, I awarded one Honorable mention for this stunning sunset. I personally do not have the patience for landscape photography, and therefore have always envied those who do and will wait for the perfect moment to document our beautiful, natural world. Again, the quality of light in this image serves to create a gorgeous setting among the perceived movement of the clouds and the stillness of the water.

Congratulations to all who exhibited this year! Your works are beautiful, thought-provoking, and make Findlay proud. - Bekah Alviani, Judge