The finale of last season was the ‘Image of the Year’ held on 7th May, when professional photographer and experienced judge Andrew Barton assessed the entries ‘blind’ without a preview.
Taking his first look at the images, Andrew explained that judging blind is the norm in the UK and he thinks it is the right way to assess images. He added that a busy photographer will be assessing images all the time e.g. selecting for publication, and it becomes easier with experience.
Following an initial run-through, Andrew commented that the standard was “extremely high” before giving each entry an individual and thorough critique. He offered technical advice and the odd anecdote along the way, contributing to an enjoyable evening as we reviewed members’ favourite images of the season.
Each entry was allocated a score between 16 and 20 points, and those receiving 19 and above formed the shortlist from which the winner and placed images were selected.
The results were as follows.
Print section:
1st: “Stag in the Mist” by Steve Johnstone – 20 points
2nd: “Frozen Flower” by Sue Clegg – 19 points
3rd: “Puzzle” by Andrea Thrussell – 19 points
Shortlisted:
Steve’s “Barn Owl Hunting Prey” and “Hobbiton New Zealand”, Jim’s “Walk On By” and Brian Green’s “Corrugated Roof with Leaf Litter”.
Digital Section:
1st: “Heron” by Georgina Shaw – 20 points (top of page)
2nd: “Reflections” by Angela Skitt – 20 points
3rd: “Dragonfly in Flight” by Steve Johnstone – 20 points
Shortlisted:
James’ “Red Soldier Beetles” and “Incoming Shell Duck”, Jim’s “Dean Harrison at Greeba Bridge”, Georgina’s “I See You!”, Simon’s “Misty Morning on the Tay”, Sue’s “Tulip”, Andrea’s “Coastal Sunset”, Seamus’ “Full Steam Ahead” and Angela’s “Silverdale Fall”.
The winning images went head-to-head for the overall “Image of the Year” and Andrew selected the digital image. He said he enjoyed the timing and controlled background motion of Georgina’s “Heron”, while Steve’s “Stag in the Mist” was atmospheric and very nice indeed.
Many congratulations to Georgina and to Steve for two worthy images, and well done to everyone who entered and contributed to an evening of excellent imagery. The top six images can be seen on this page.
Looking ahead to the new season, a reminder that the set themes are:
Frame/d – 8th October (to be judged by Mike Radcliffe)
Construction – 21st January
Empty – 18th March
Each will be followed by an Open competition as usual.