2024 Fall FOCUS Contest Winners
The Artist’s Toolbox
A note of special thanks to all the exhibitors and the judges who participated in The Artist’s Toolbox, the 2024 Fall Focus Contest. We had over 150 entries from members of all 12 GCA zones.
Enjoy!
~Karen
McCormick, L. Anna Forbes, & Susie Brewer
Ryn Clarke, Aphrodite’s Reflection, Shaker Heights GC, Zone X
Class 1
Light
Color or Monochrome
A photograph of a grand, natural expanse—land, water or sky. Evidence of human activity should be absent or minimal. Plant material is encouraged but not required.
Anne-Marie Lamarche Piedmont GC
Zone XII
What an ethereal composition with exquisitely balanced elements; sky and water, light and color, detail and transparency. Well done!
GC of Morristown
Zone IV
An intriguing desert vista, whose subtle colors and serpentine curves lead the eye on a journey to a distant horizon. The overexposed upper portion of the image needs more definition.
Pat Lazor
Phyllis Russell
Paducah GC
Zone VII
This is a well-composed and expertly focused seaside image of a classic iconic shoreline.
The far left, rocky ledge in the foreground is underexposed and lacks the detail that is apparent in the other areas of the photograph.
Christine Morenz
The GC of Houston Zone IX
A dramatic interpretation of light on a subject defines the essence of skilled photography in this fleeting capture of a scene. Adjusting image exposure may create greater compositional balance throughout the photograph.
Carrie Caton Smith
The Gertrude
Windsor GC
Zone IX
This well-focused panoramic western landscape is anchored by the dominant rock feature and dramatic sky. The oversaturated color editing detracts from the image’s impact.
Westport GC Zone XI
This is a surprisingly creative interpretation of the class. It is an abstract and painterly landscape with a whimsical element that engages the eye. The whimsical focal point may be made a bit larger to lend greater impact to this composition.
Lorelai Gibson
This mysterious monochrome photograph captures the ambiguity of dark sky and water, storm and calm. It invites the eye to explore its depths. Applying moderate contrast might benefit the overall composition.
Annitsa Philliou GC of Englewood Zone IV
The Seattle GC Zone XII
Skillful capture of pastel gradations of color and light in the sky and sea evoke a timeless sunrise photograph.
Vignetting in the image’s corners detract from the impact of the photograph.
Kim Bishop
Mary Jo Beck
GC of Cincinnati
Zone X
The grassy focal point in the foreground adds textural contrast to the grandeur of this canyon composition.
The underexposed foreground divides the image in half.
Cookie Brown
The GC of the
Halifax Country Zone VIII
This well-composed landscape interprets the natural expanse of land and sea effectively.
Flat lighting throughout the photograph reduces the landscape’s impact.
Cristina Heins
Piedmont GC Zone XII
Snow-capped mountains and luminous sky define this composition.
The mountains and sky eclipse the large underexposed foreground and, it divides the photograph in half creating two scenes.
This sunny, well-focused and park-like composition highlights a well-captured water feature. Composed in ‘portrait view’, the landscape’s proportions are limited in scope. In ‘landscape view’ the elements may be more expansive and interpret the class more closely.
Mary Trehan
Stamford GC
Zone II
Class 2
Light
Color or Monochrome
An intimate study of place. Plant material is encouraged, but not required. A title or statement of intent not to exceed 30 words is required.
This outstanding composition effectively guides viewers through a powerful story narrative with superb use of textures, repeating forms and light, and depth of field.
Statement of Intent:
Yesterday or Today? Watching this lovely Egyptian man contemplating the Temple of Horus, Philae magically transported me back to the 7th century B.C.
Libba Wilkes GC of Jackson Zone IX
The simplicity and harmonious use of light and lines creates a soothing sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly aligns with the theme. This elegant composition, with its sweeping swirls and repeating lines, showcase a mastery of capturing delicate white tones draws attention to the clothespin as the focal point.
Exploring a slight increase in contrast could enhance the depth and make the delicate white tones stand out even more, which might elevate the visual interest even further.
Statement of Intent: Every house on Monhegan Island has a clothesline. On a sunny summer’s day, laundry flies in the wind beckoning to be photographed.
Amy Murphy
St. Paul GC
Zone XI
Carol Bayer
GC of Orange and Dutchess Counties
Zone III
The dramatic tonal range captures a repeating light element that reinforces the powerful, almost spiritual quality of this intimate study of place. This photograph reflects a deep understanding of the class theme. Introducing a variation in color palette or bringing more light to the background would allow the viewer to appreciate the setting and the details.
Statement of Intent: Entered the tiny chapel in the Tuscan hillside lit only by the flickering candles . . . moved by the hushed silence.
Jo Anne Rosen
The Seattle GC Zone XII
This photograph demonstrates a strong sense of balance by contrasting the decaying textures of the old building with the soft intentional use of light on the subject's back. This thoughtful composition draws the viewer in, encouraging a deeper connection with the space and its story.
Closer cropping on the right side of the image could reduce unnecessary space, making the composition feel more cohesive with the light becoming the clear focal point.
Statement of Intent: To visit Havana is to experience contrasting narratives. The decadent architectural elegance provides a backdrop to mundane tasks of everyday life. Stories abound on every balcony and doorstep.
Loan Hutton
GC of Allegheny County Zone V
This entry showcases exceptional creativity through simple yet effective use of light and varying shades of gray. Correcting the distortion of the corner line would create a stronger image.
Statement of Intent: The rocking chair is reflecting on the essence of its previous occupant.
Neel Parikh Tacoma GC
Zone XII
Impressive technical execution, with strong leading lines, captures great depth and creates a powerful sense of dimension and immersion.
To maximize the impact, consider experimenting with different perspectives and angles that might enhance the focus and the viewer’s attention on the key elements or subject.
Statement of Intent: Exploring the Temple of Chephren [Khafre] at the foot of the Sphinx at Giza.
Mary Lou Righellis Piedmont GC
Zone XII
The compelling leading lines, combined with the precise use of light, vividly tell a story where light has an impact to the narrative.
Exploring variations in shooting from a slightly lower perspective, could add even more depth to the image, emphasizing a more intimate study of space.
Statement of Intent:
The warmth of early morning sunlight brilliantly captures this mother as she passes through her awakening community.
Sally Fairbanks
The GC of Santa Barbara Zone XII
The innovative and excellent use of diagonals, textures, and patterns in the clay, creates an interesting image. While the composition is interesting, refining the shadows and the light could help to reduce the heaviness and give more contrast, ensuring no areas in the image are too dark or bright.
Statement of Intent: An unexpected perspective of Goldsworthy’s "Tree Fall" installation made underground with felled wood and clay that will over time "decay and return to earth."
Zone XI
The strategic use of controlled lighting and color creates a visually appealing composition that draws the viewer in and emphasizes the mood and emotion of the intimate space.
To increase the compositional element of the story, stepping back from the engagement and introducing greater contrast around the areas of interest could enhance the images depth and dimension, adding even more interest to the narrative.
Statement of Intent: A Rancher’s Toolbox
Lou Schatz
Saint Paul GC
Anne Speed Little Rock GC Zone IX
Statement of Intent:
Room with a view: the fanciful nighttime shadow play of balconies and railings. The outstanding use of shadows, combined with strategic lighting, adds depth and complexity to this highly creative image.
Consider experimenting with various angles that might help to reduce dominance of the upper balcony, and darkness of the lower left of the image that draws the eye away from the play with light and shadows.
Kathryn Pritchett Piedmont GC
Zone XII
The creative use of strategic lighting adds to the storyline and draws the eye into the scene.
To create a more intimate study of the place, consider cropping the top and coming in more tightly.
Statement of Intent: The sun sets on the family farm. After five generations farming this land, only one farmer – my brother – remains. His children have chosen other pursuits. End of an era.
Amanda Dolan
Jupiter Island GC Zone VIII
Your vibrant use of color, accented with the daylight, makes the image captivating.
To further refine the image, consider softening the color to reduce oversaturation, and cropping the image so it feels less stretched and more balanced.
Statement of Intent: Make hay when the summer sun shines. A deep breath with the smell of hay in the air stirs up a special summer feeling.
Class 3
Color Color
A photograph of mid-range, natural scenery—land, water, or sky. Grand expanses and close-up views are not permitted. Evidence of human activity should be absent or minimal. Color should be compelling. Plant material is encouraged but not required.
Jill Mudge
The GC of Princeton Zone IV
The harmonious colors sweep diagonally through this stunning and serene photograph. The movement of the waves and the light create a sense of rhythm and melody.
Jean Jarvis
Piedmont GC Zone XII
This technically skilled image is skillfully composed with well-defined layers. The eye is led through the photograph and follows the ocean water as it meanders among textured rocks and reaches the breakers on the horizon. This is a high second.
Noanett GC Zone I
Brilliant complementary colors and a beautifully composed foreground add to this view of nature’s own subject.
Perhaps over-sharpening has created an artifact in the border between the sky and rock.
Beth Paisner
Melissa Harris Marin GC Zone XII
Isolating the subject from a vast landscape is successful. Interesting textures draw the viewer’s attention while dramatic thunderhead clouds convey the mood of a pending storm. The foreground and sky compete. Darkening the foreground would add depth and separation of layers in the image.
Carrie Casey GC of Allegheny County Zone V
The color palette epitomizes autumn. The layered composition keeps the viewer moving in a circular motion throughout the image.
The lower right foreground elements distract from the scene.
Margie Pengilly
Piedmont GC Zone XII
The fiery and dramatic sky is framed nicely by the fringed silhouette of the tree. The composition presents a good example of a mid-range scene. The foreground could be sharper.
Susan Strawn
The Gertrude
Windsor GC Zone IX
The circular swirl of the colorful reflections moves the eye around the composition. Lines, colors, and textures are strikingly captured.
The center of interest is somewhat obscured by the reeds in the foreground, and the image is more representative of an intimate landscape and could have a wider view of the scene.
The color and tone are well balanced. The capture of the setting sun and radiating lines of the clouds is dramatic. The foliage in the lower left corner is distracting.
Anne Friday Hortulus
Zone II
Zone VIII
The brilliant orange liquid flowing over the textured earth leads the viewer to the deep blue-green geothermal pool and creates a colorful and vivid image. More breathing room for the vapors rising off the pool would enhance the photograph.
Karen Crete Founders GC of Sarasota, Inc.
Holly Kennedy Rye GC Zone III
The subtle colors of the greenery and sky are echoed in the nearby water and create harmony.
The house and road are evidence of people and are not part of a natural landscape.
Zone VII
The spiky dead tree and the smooth sand dune behind it create an interesting contrast. More sky would help balance the composition.
Georgiana Watt Fauquier and Loudoun GC
The intense purples, pinks, and blues create a dramatic sky.
The bright band of white is overlydominant; the photograph has significant digital noise.
Christine Tiberg
Westhampton GC
Zone III
Class 4
Color Color
A portrait of a botanical subject taken at a close range. The subject need not mostly fill the frame, but the subject should be the dominant element in the composition. Color should be compelling. Plant material is required.
GC of Irvington-on-Hudson
Zone III
Strong composition effectively utilizes light to emphasize the colors, shapes, and forms of the flower’s stamen set against the diffused backlit petals. Stamen at the bottom are slightly distracting.
Dorrie Bernstein
Strong focus and lovely light carry the eye around the elegant and undulating petals enhancing the depth of field.
The slightly overblown petals above the stamen diminish distinction.
Victoria Doyle Rochester GC
Zone III
Soft lighting effectively directs the viewer to explore the rhythmic swirl of petals in this creative, well-composed image. Contrasting colors emphasize the subject. Sharper focus would enhance this image.
Dana Parker
The Virginia Beach GC Zone VII
This artistically composed image successfully showcases the dramatic contrast between the color and softness of the bloom set against the hard surface and cool tones of the rock. The focus could be sharper.
Heidi Riggs Ridgefield GC Zone II
The upward facing pose of the bloom captures a progression of color in a radiating fashion.
The dominance of the insect competes for attention with the primary subject of botanical material, which is the subject of the class.
Heather Ames
Monadnock GC
Zone I
Perennial GC
This artistic composition demonstrates the dynamic contrast between the subject’s colors and the background.
Sharper focus on the primary bloom would strengthen the image.
Suzie Bissell
Zone VI
Constance Owen
The Virginia Beach GC Zone VII
Color contrast emphasizes the diagonal lines of the background plant material repeated in the diagonal line drawing the viewer’s eye from the lone mushroom cap to the upright mushroom. The small mushroom cap is overexposed.
Retta Boyd
The GC of Jackson Zone IX
Setting the subject against a dark background draws attentions to its showy color and the detail of its sharp thistles. The composition would benefit from strong focus on the entire subject and more space surrounding the thistle bloom.
The Lake Minnetonka GC
Zone XI
This image is well focused with a variety of textures and complementary colors. The weight and dominance of the subject competes with the feathery background.
Rebecca Field
A pleasing color palette of soft pinks and yellows creates an uplifting movement with a nicely detailed petal in the foreground. A lack of focus and detail at the top reduces the impact.
Ellen Kaufmann
The GC of Palm Beach
Zone VIII
This creative interpretation captures the bold and velvet quality of a red rose covered in water droplets that appear like ice crystals.
Sharper focus on the water droplets and judicious cropping would strengthen this image.
Susan Rotando
Fairfield GC Zone II
Jane O’Farrell
Perennial Planters
Zone II
Appealing hues of reds and oranges, along swirling petals, create a pleasing image.
Detail is lost in the flower’s dark center and disturbs the overall composition.
GC of Irvington-on-Hudson
Zone III
The subtle diagonal line of the flower’s position is nicely framed by the grasses.
Soft focus on the background bloom detracts from the overall image.
Edna Kornberg
Class 5
Contrast
Color or Monochrome
A composition emphasizing tonal contrast in lights and darks (and, if a color entry, color contrast. Plant material encouraged but not required.
Crisp detail and contrast of colors create a dynamic image.
Beth Hickman
Rochester GC Zone III
Three Harbors GC
Zone III
Effective use of light brings out the translucent petals. The weight of the composition is a little heavy at the top.
Cheri Antoniello
The Planters
Zone V
The interplay of light and shadow creates tension and intrigue. The dark ceiling diminishes the impact of the photograph.
Gerry Fisher
This is a very creative capture with multiple rhythmic elements and converging lines.
The abundance of water droplets somewhat competes for dominance.
Nina Girolamo
Three Harbors GC
Zone III
The interplay of the dark and light fields in the middle of the image creates a yin-yang effect. Slightly darkening the field in the foreground would create better balance.
Barbara Todd
GC of Somerset Hills Zone IV
The placement and position of the birds and branch make a successful composition. This is a creative interpretation of the class. Sharper focus of the bird in the background would enhance the picture.
Robin Turnbaugh Monadnock GC
Zone I
Nancy Dankof
The GC of Dayton Zone X
The lighting and use of vignetting emphasize the deteriorating condition of the cabin. The cool cyan color conflicts with the rustic subject.
The choice of perspective and side light creates interesting details in the highlights and strong contrasts between light and dark. The features in the shadowed areas are slightly blocked up (too dark) and lack detail.
Lucy Zhou Tacoma GC
Zone XII
The glow of light around the vertical and diagonal lines creates a mysterious atmosphere. The abundance of dark areas weakens the image.
Danna Dearborn Piscataqua GC Zone I
Arizona Columbine GC Zone XII
The bright light on the flowers creates an exciting contrast to the mountains in the background.
The soft focus of the flower on the left interrupts the harmony of the picture.
Emily Calihan
Ferris Perennial GC
Zone II
The use of backlight accents the texture of the plant material in the foreground.
The bright sun shining through the trees diminishes the detail in the midrange.
Diana
The strong light gives vibrancy to the complementary colors. The abundance of focal points compete for the viewer’s attention.
Sarah Keenan
Fairfield GC Zone II
Class 6
Texture
Color
A flat lay composition of a natural subject emphasizing texture. Plant material is encouraged, but not required.
The Lake Minnetonka GC Zone XI
Impactful color and contrast, light source, and triangular lines transform milkweed seed pods into textured white flowers with silk-like petals and wavy strands.
Anne Kaufman
Well-chosen and placed contrasting shapes, colors and textures create subtle movement in this unique image.
Ann Franzen
Fairfield GC Zone II
Laura Semple Carrie T. Watson GC
Zone V
A compelling image of natural elements emphasizes a variety of textures. The radial leaf creates movement, the water droplets magnify the leaf’s veins, and the rocks add texture and color contrast to the leaf. The rock in the lower right side is out of focus and diminishes impact.
Debbie Laverell
The Garden Workers Zone V
A well-balanced flat lay featuring Astilbes of pink, white, and green hues placed in a symmetrical-like pattern filled with texture is a feast for the eyes. The out-of-focus green leaves in the bottom right weakens the impact.
Assemblage of objects and color-themed elements that emphasize shapes and textures combine to tell a story. Multiple focal points compete for interest.
Ellen Shapiro GC of Irvington-on-Hudson
Zone III
The West Chester GC Zone V
Well-placed, diverse textured elements create visual stability, circular movement and showcase artistry. The dimensional layers and lines contribute to the depth and focus. Overexposure of some whites and the soft focus of dark berries lessen the impact.
Alice Waegel
Arizona Columbine GC
Zone XII
An inviting radial symmetrical composition creates movement with complementary colors and textures.
Cut off parts of the cactus bloom takes the eye out of the image.
Lenni Griego
The Lake Minnetonka GC Zone XI
Impact of light on the subject and placement of the flower
create a still life-like portrait of a fading peony. Textured elements highlight the life cycle. Lack of visual space between the leaf on the right and the background detracts.
Lisa Melamed
An expansive variety of tack-sharp textures of flora, fauna, and butterflies echoes a colorful scene in nature. The small blue flower in the lower left distracts from the harmonious choice of colors and circular movement.
Jill Corr Stonington GC Zone II
Jennifer Mark The Portland GC Zone XII
This is an alluring combination of colors and textures. The abundance of elements in the right-hand corner creates visual imbalance.
Three Harbors GC Zone III
Curving, meandering, textured, worm-like arms of cacti plant takes the viewer through this unique image. There is no clear focal point.
Laura Blumin
Yoni Mayeri Orinda GC Zone XII
Clever color and contrast of chosen elements work successfully in this well-taken photo. The vignetting enhances the focal point. The image might benefit from different subject placement and more texture.
Nina Girolamo
Three Harbors GC Zone III
Creative vision of floating flowers with highlighted hues of pinks, whites, blues, and yellows make a tapestry of vibrant color. Out-of-focus petals and flowers diminish the impact. A main focal point would help the composition.
Good depth of field and excellent exposure reinforce the multiple focal points of earthy textures and shapes of garlic bulbs.
Multiple points of interest compete leading to a lack of direction for the viewer's eye to go.
Loretta Boyd GC of Jackson Zone IX
Taddy
The Weeders Zone V
A kaleidoscope-like image of a beautiful flower with harmonious colors creates a visually pleasing rhythmic flow. More emphasis on the diverse textures within the center of the flower would strengthen the image.
Dawson
Circular placement of black and white feathers displays textures and rhythm. The highlight on the right is distracting.
Irene Brownlow
Memphis GC Zone IX
Class 7
Line
Color
A composition with a dominant visual line. Plant material is encouraged, but not required.
The Weeders Zone V
A compelling narrative of drama and tension!
The lighting, soft harmonious color palette, and strong leading line craft a captivating story.
Taddy Dawson
The creative radial line of the palm successfully leads the viewer’s eye through the image.
The upper background interrupts this otherwise evocative composition.
Sarah Salomon
Perennial GC
Zone IV
The repetition of the conical evergreens and the stone background creates successful movement and balance between the dominant leading lines.
Lack of detail in the upper right corner weakens the effect.
Gail Heaslip Ridgefield GC Zone II
Akron GC Zone X
The simplicity of the textured planks, lighting, and interplay of greenery pleasantly leads the viewer through the photograph.
Tighter cropping on the right side would improve the composition.
Beth Brumbaugh
The radiating concentric circles of the water juxtaposed against the shoreline create compelling contrast. The background lacks detail which diminishes the strength of the photograph.
Betsy Cochrane GC of Dublin
Zone I
Debbie Murray GC of Darien
Zone II
The illuminated sky and water pull the viewer in and through the leading lines of the dock. The sky is unnaturally oversaturated.
The reflection of the art object and its angle compose a balanced mirrored scene.
The lower right hotspot disrupts the composition.
Mary Smith
The GC of Jackson Zone IX
Tacoma GC
Zone XII
This is a good capture of light and colors.
The dominance of the blacktop creates a divided image.
Arlee Ehlers
The GC of Jackson Zone IX
Strong leading lines formed by the walls and the diamond patterned floor draw the viewer through the composition. The lack of tight symmetry takes away from its overall impact.
Angelyn Cannada
This is a unique and dynamic graphic statement using a minimal color palette to enhance the composition. Lack of detail in the lower right reduces the desired effect.
Yoni Mayeri
Orinda GC
Zone XII
Carol Taylor
The GC of Wilmington Zone V
The leading lines created by the tent and flags flying in rhythmic unison are well-reflected by the setting light. The flagpole and building on the left detract from the overall impact of the photograph.
Carol Chapin
The GC of the Halifax Country Zone VIII
The stillness of the water provides a template for a perfect reflection.
The crooked horizon line takes away from the composition.
Class 8
Story Color
A composed still life composition that suggests a strong visual narrative. Plant material is required. A title or statement of intent not to exceed 30 words is required.
Nancy Keely
The GC of Houston Zone IX
This is a distinctive interpretation of the class theme incorporating horizontal, vertical, and leading lines along with contrasting colors to achieve its story line.
Statement of Intent: Calla’s Colors
The choice of elements, strong focus, repetition of color, and luminescent lighting all combine to create a pleasing story. The composition is too tightly composed.
Statement of Intent: These elements speak to a bygone era where reading, sipping, and tasting berries might make for an enjoyable afternoon.
Vicki Saltonstall
Chestnut Hill GC
Zone I
Zone III
The composition of the components, utilizing textural variety and a repetition of hues, creates a rhythmic flow through the image. The details in the center are lost in the shadows.
Statement of Intent: Farm Woodland - Walking through the woods surrounding my home, built on former farmland, I've unearthed these treasures from nature and days gone by.
Dawn Borgeest Rochester GC
Anne Speed
Little Rock GC
Zone IX
This is a creative and well-focused composition of past-prime tulips that uses linear space and a complementary color palette. The dark shadow in the center of the image is distracting.
Statement of Intent: Going, going, gone: essential in the photographer's "toolbox" is the willingness to see and to capture the beauty of fading blooms, not just the loveliness of perfect ones.
Mary Queitzsch
Dolley Madison GC Zone VII
This is a creative and complex approach to the class theme. The dark shadows detract from the story and the bright white paint tube leads the eye out of the image.
Statement of Intent: The artist pauses to reflect on the red for the cherries.
Cynthia Hewitt
The GC of Wilmington Zone V
The repetition of color, shape, and texture juxtaposed against a diagonal, linear, and rough pavement provides visual tension within the photograph. The components’ placements are crowded and the stem on the left side of the image interrupts the rhythm.
Statement of Intent: Summer's colorful bounty.
Cathy Dolan Sand Hills GC Zone VIII
The image projects a serene mood utilizing color and soft lighting. Tight cropping on the left would improve the image and provide a stronger focal point.
Statement of Intent: A quiet moment in the potting shed after the wedding: candles burn low, and flowers wilt, capturing the beauty of celebrations' end and the passage of time.
Mary Elizabeth Smith
The GC of Jackson Zone IX
Statement of Intent: Easter Week during Covid, I got my neighborhood to photograph eggs outside. I use my grandmother's "egg cup" with Hydrangea from my garden- placing it on an architectural ball. The color selection successfully creates a soft mood. The shadows on the architectural base are distracting and the focal point is slightly off-kilter.
Piedmont GC Zone XII
The bokeh background strengthens the focal point. The story is limited for the viewer because the subject matter is too tightly cropped.
Statement of Intent: He waits, in the fairy forest.
Anne-Marie Lamarche
Three Harbors GC Zone III
The texture of the wood and the details of the flower are well-focused, and the strong color of the Echinacea strengthens its role as the focal point. The left side of the composition is distracting.
Statement of Intent: This photo is meant to capture these clever flowers resting on a man-made structure in the extreme heat, whilst shining proudly in the sun.
Cheri Antoniello
South County GC of R.I.
Zone II
This flat lay involves a creative choice of related elements with a variety of textures and the inclusion of diagonal lines to provide visual interest. The components in this frame need breathing room.
Statement of Intent: Treasures from a mid-September walk on the beach with my dog.
Gail Cyr
Beth Paisner
Noanett GC
Zone I
Impactful repetition of color throughout and curvilinear lines in the pot handle and the leaves allow the viewer’s eye to move through the image. The tight cropping of the foreground eliminated additional reflection of light that would have strengthened this still life.
Statement of Intent: Cool and warm - after a fall harvest there’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee . . .
Class 9
Story
Color or Monochrome
A found still life composition. Plant material is encouraged, but not required.
Editor’s Note: Class 9— Found Still Life
New to GCA photography, a “found still life” class is a niche class with a specific and narrow definition. The Artist’s Toolbox schedule contains this definition:
“A photograph of a collection or grouping of objects that were primarily arranged by another person or animal (e.g., a cairn, a nest, etc.) and later discovered by the photographer.*”
Like its cousin “composed still life,” an essential requirement of “found still life” is the presentment of visual elements that have been positioned or arranged. With composed still life, the photographer creates the arrangement. With “found still life”, the objects have been positioned by another person (or possibly by an animal) and later discovered and photographed by the photographer. Classic examples are the hiker happening upon a cairn on a mountain path or a beachcomber finding an eroding sandcastle. Other examples might be a table in a café bathed in soft afternoon light or an innkeeper’s wall of room keys on hooks. It is the element of human agency by a person other than the photographer in the placement of objects that is key. The objects may have been positioned artfully or merely practically. The photographer’s task, as always, is to create the composition in the camera of the “found” scene that the photographer has discovered. Thus, fallen leaves simply discovered on a forest floor or pebbles on a beach scattered by a wave are not “found still life” subject matter because the objects haven’t been positioned by a person (or an animal).
Because this is a new class and there was some confusion about what “found still life” is and is not, we passed entries generously. To assist passers, exhibitors, and judges in the future, we will write more on this niche class in a coming issue of Focus.
* Note: Borrowing from the definition of “composed still life,” the 2024 Yellow Book amends this definition slightly: A found still life is a photograph of “a collection or grouping of objects that were primarily arranged by another person or animal (e.g., a cairn, a nest, etc.) and later discovered by the photographer to convey a visual story or allegory or to explore broader compositional concepts such as color, form, light, or shadow.
~LAF
Glenview GC
Zone VII
The photograph’s starkness is a creative and masterful study of geometry and vertical lines.
Statement of Intent: A rake from the "farmer’s toolbox" offers a glimpse of the simple life.
Margie Schubert
In this excellent composition, the rippling effect of the fungi is contained by the wellplaced leaf.
Statement of Intent: Fungi Fan
Claire Van de Berghe
Fairfield GC Zone II
Interest is achieved in this composition of natural elements through its asymmetrical and curving forms. The artificiality of the blue tint throughout the image conflicts with the natural scene.
Statement of Intent: Gifts from the Sea—Surprise Still Life Surfside
Libba Wilkes GC of Jackson Zone IX
The Gertrude Windsor GC Zone IX
Interest is created in the fore, middle, and background by the repetition of varying rock formations.
The focal point of the cairn in the foreground is diminished by the bushes behind.
Statement of Intent: This image entitled "Art Imitating Arch" represents a mortal's attempt, albeit a colorful one, to fill the void created by nature.
Carrie Caton Smith
Deb Fitzgerald
GC of Cleveland Zone X
The subject is beautifully framed; vibrant colors and varying textures add interest. The strongly lit arbor vitae detracts from the focal point.
Statement of Intent:
Found:
Nature’s own intriguing combination of color and texture.
Nancy Huseby Piedmont GC
Zone XII
Statement of Intent: While walking along the river’s edge I noted this gathering of pine needles and oak leaves assembled showing off Nature’s natural beauty. Crisp details and reflections create an intriguing and mysterious composition. The dark hole created by the pine needles is distracting.
The simple composition in natural tones creates a Zenlike mood.
The ghosted shapes in the background draw your eye away from the focal point.
Statement of Intent:
Quietude—A Georgia O'Keefe late afternoon moment inside the Ghost Camp, Abiquiu, New Mexico.
Melissa Harris Marin GC Zone XII
Maryann Eletto
Three Harbors GC Zone III
The whimsical collection of disparate objects creates interest in this arrangement. The harsh lighting creates strong shadows on the left which negatively affect the symmetry.
Statement of Intent: This grouping of simple objects is infused with color, shadowing and symmetry. My hope was to highlight these characteristics and the beauty of a basic windowsill display..
Sarah Fee
Hortulus Zone II
A dreamy scene is created with the soft focus, pastel colors and candlelight. The multiple candles, reflections, and multiple elements create confusion.
Statement of Intent: How long we wait for that first warm night when we can sit outside. The frogs sing.. The candles dance.
The Gertrude Windsor GC Zone IX
The bold colors, unexpected in nature, are a vivid contrast to the turbulent sky. The centrality of the subject creates a static image and stops the eye.
Statement of Intent: Rounding a corner, cairns take on a new look. Bolder, bigger and brighter to lead a lost traveler.
Ann Brookshire
Martha Hough
South County GC
Zone II
This natural abstract composition captures the sinuous movement of the tides. The stark white shell is overlydominant.
Statement of Intent: "One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beachwaiting for a gift from the sea." -A.M. Lindbergh, Gift from the Sea
Three Harbors GC Zone III
The image captures the lovely contrast between the solid and translucent leaves. More symmetrical placement would enhance the composition.
Statement of Intent: Bromeliad
Beauty
Stacey Paci
Tacoma GC
Zone XII
This is a creative and exuberant study of reds and oranges. The image lacks a focal point.
Statement of Intent: Colorful condiments at a roadside stand in Croatia.
Neel Parikh
Class 10
Story
Color or Monochrome
A conservation photograph depicting a subject of environmental concern. A statement describing the environmental concern not to exceed 30 words is required.
Debbie Ross
Garden Guild of Winnetka Zone XI
Statement of Intent: Glaciers melt, cities flood, fires rage out of control, the Earth burns, and the people flee. The diagonal lines of the road and the cloud of smoke create tension and a sense of urgency.
Lori French
The Monroe Garden Study League Zone IX
Strong leading lines point to the fragility of nature. This is a high second.
Statement of Intent: Emerging for the last time . . . corn stalks reaching for the sun. After centuries, fertile, rich Delta farmland will be destroyed. Nutrient rich soil will grow metal. Solar farms be damned.
This is a powerful interpretation of the class where a worm’s-eye view enhances the subject and creates distinctive layers of the composition.
Only the bottom part of the photograph is in focus. Using a wider depth of field would improve the capture.
Statement of Intent: Can forest harvesting ever be truly sustainable?
Lucy Zhou Tacoma GC Zone XII
Dorelis Osborne Rochester GC Zone III
The snowy peaks of the mountains are balanced by a flying seagull creating visual stability. Less water in the foreground would add dramatic attention to the story.
Statement of Intent: The intent was to capture the splendid glacial beauty. However, this environmentally fragile landscape shows evidence of glacial melt, in different stages. The past, present! And with conservation . . . the future.
Karen Brown
The French Broad River GC Foundation Zone VII
The photographer successfully uses the scene’s angular lines which carry the eye through the composition. Top cropping weakens the impact.
Statement of Intent: Five years ago this glacier in Glacier Bay, Alaska, was covered with snow at this time of year. Climate change (global warming) is threatening our environment in many profound ways.
Sherry
Dargan
The GC of the Halifax Country Zone VIII
The various textures of ice, clouds, and water create an impactful and dramatic atmosphere. The image would have stronger impact with less ice in the foreground.
Statement of Intent: The Antarctic Peninsula has a polar climate that is warming faster than anywhere else on Earth threatening a delicate biological community.
Linda Madani
Stony Brook GC of Princeton
Zone IV
Statement of Intent: Healthy pond at Sayen Gardens in Hamilton, NJ. Currently at risk, frogs benefit natural ecosystems and food webs, serving both as predators and prey. This whimsical portrait of a frog has a pleasing color palette. Yellow leaves compete with the frog for center stage.
V
Diagonal lines, good depth of field, and powerful lighting create a strong rhythm.
Straightening the vertical lines of the building on the right would strengthen the effect.
Statement of Intent: Urban sprawl’s adverse environmental impact includes deforestation, disruption of wildlife habitat and air pollution from increased automobile use.
Jill Pirhalla
West Chester GC Zone
Sally DeWees
The GC of Wilmington Zone V
This photograph captures the scale of the Icelandic landscape in soft light and pastel color palette. Increased clarity would improve the urgency of the message.
Statement of Intent: Due to climate change,, the Bredanmerkurjokull Glacier in Southeast Iceland is melting into the Jokularlon Lagoon at an alarming rate. Photo taken from the glacier lagoon August 2024.
Jennifer Lyon
The GC of Aiken
Zone VIII
Diagonal branches create a strong foreground. A shallow depth of field would enhance the effect.
Statement of Intent: Showcasing an example from Archeologia Arborea, which promotes biodiversity and conservation of fruit trees, for climate change; some are on the brink of extinction and date back to the Renaissance.
West Chester GC Zone V
This is a well-balanced, asymmetrical image. The use of creative technique is confusing.
Statement of Intent: There are only gas guzzling vehicles in this parking lot. No electric vehicles can be seen. Burning fossil fuels is the major environmental concern, so let’s hope federal incentives to buy electric cars will work.
Alice Waegel
Statement of Intent: Habitat loss poses the greatest threat to species. This composition is effectively enhanced by desaturating the leafy background and focusing on the colorful amphibian. The background leaves dominate the subject.
Margie Schubert
Glenview GC
Zone VII
Class 11
Impact
Color – Creative Techniques
A composition with strong visual impact. Plant material is encouraged but not required.
The Seattle GC
Zone XII
This is a superb example of a strong visual impact exemplifying advanced creative technique.
Mary Turner
Strong lines, colors, and patterns create a pleasing visual study. This is a close second.
Anastazja Panek-Tobin GC of Trenton Zone IV
Zone I
The repetition and diagonal lines create an impactful image.
The composition is bottom heavy and fades to shadows.
Janet Josselyn Noanett GC
Jo Anne Rosen
The Seattle GC Zone XII
Creative use of color and subject matter. A good interpretation of the class. The color patterns lead the eye down and out of the image.
Kettle Moraine GC Zone XI
The earth tones and angles create an interesting composition. The brightness of the lower right draws your interest out of the photograph.
Kari Pietsch-Wangard
Irene Brownlow Memphis GC Zone IX
This a very bold interpretation of the class using dramatic lighting and strong compositional elements. A tighter crop would reduce the abundance of negative space.
The Seattle GC Zone XII
Vivid colors capture the beautiful flowers with interesting textures and varied shapes. There is a lack of relationship between the elements, and the viewer’s eye goes to the lower right daisy.
Suzy Titcomb
The Portland GC Zone XII
The overlay and texture create a soft palette. The large, pale petals in the upper center detract.
Jane Wolfsehr
The technical aspect shows creativity in patterns.
The busyness of the flowers and the moths create confusion.
Trish Simonite
Alamo Heights-Terrell Hills GC Zone XII
The bright colors mix well with the soft focus. The line on the right side of the image disturbs the rhythm.
Gail Atwater
The GC of Honolulu
Zone XII
GC of Lawrence Zone III
The sharp focus captures the details of the hydrangea.
Under the Yellow Book, a ‘creative technique’ creates a visual effect that “significantly departs from a purely representational depiction of the subject matter.” It is not apparent this was achieved in this photograph.
Bebe Morrissey
A vast array of color explodes in this creative photograph.
Sharper focus would enhance the composition.
Suellen White GC of Denver Zone XII
Zone V
This photograph has delicate, interesting shadows, and detail. The brightness of the flower is static. More evident use creative techniques would benefit the photograph.
Laura Semple Carrie T. Watson GC
Emotion
Color
A photograph of an animal (or animals), wild or domesticated, that emotional engages with the viewer. A title or statement of intent not to exceed 30 words is required.
Valentine Tacoma GC Zone XII
This photograph elicits an immediate feeling of alarm, with its sharp focus sinuously leading you into the picture. Repeating angles nicely frame the photo.
Statement of Intent: A surprise encounter with a basking garter snake on the boardwalk.
Kerry
Zone VII
The photograph exemplifies the class intention. The expressions of the orangutans are beguiling and the well focused composition and colors against the grey stone are spot on. A high second.
Statement of Intent: Mama and her babe playing peek-a-boo, just like I did with my 'babe'--50 years ago. Timeless game… sweet memories.
Stephanie Young Paducah GC
This beautifully composed image with selective focus leads the eye into the background.
A more direct gaze might improve the emotional response.
Statement of Intent: Uh-oh Busted! Mind your own biscuits.
Nancy Hilbert
Carrie T. Watson GC
Zone V
Nancy
McAfee
Rochester GC Zone III
The focus, lighting, and soulful expression of the dog create warm emotions. The placement of the finger is distracting.
Statement of Intent: Every afternoon
Ella and I settle into a comfy chair to read. Sometimes we sleep.
The GC of Houston Zone IX
The difficulty of exposure of a dark subject on a white background is ably mastered.
Tighter cropping might have improved distinction.
Statement of Intent: The piercing gaze from the iconic black wolf makes me grateful we are divided by the Yellowstone River.
Mimi Kerr
Nancy Evans
The Weeders Zone V
Warm colors and the attentive dog are pleasing in this library setting. The busy background and similar hues throughout make it difficult to distinguish the subjects.
Statement of Intent: My intent was to capture the subject in his environment, surrounded by his collected objects, his world, his interests, and his intensely devoted German Shepard.
Kathleen Brugger
Carrie T. Watson GC Zone V
The young startled deer is nicely framed in his environment.
The dark shadow behind the fawn draws the eye away from the subject.
Statement of Intent: Eyes Full of Curiosity
Linda Magnusson-Rosario
North Suffolk GC Zone III
The placement of the birds draws the eye along diagonal lines. The main subject is flying out of the photograph.
Statement of Intent: The swallows’ mom and dad, with wing beats up to nine per second, forage all day for aerial insects. They astound me and stir my heart with their devotion.
North Shore GC
Zone I
The complementary colors of cattle and fields invite the viewer into this pastoral scene. The variety of elements in the background distract from the cows. Tighter cropping would help.
Statement of Intent: During a morning stroll in east Tennessee, I happened upon these lovely Charolais cattle. Their peaceful stare brings a feeling of calm for the day.
Victoria MacMillan
Wendy Rohn
Woodside-Atherton GC
Zone XII
The curve of the chair seat and the back of the cat are nicely repeated, and the image is sharply focused. The photograph would have engaged the viewer more if the cat’s face was visible.
Statement of Intent: Such a sleepy Moo cat . . . a Tuxedo who lives life on HER terms.
Rochester GC
Zone III
The focus and central placement of the rabbit is successful. More engagement would occur if it was facing the viewer.
Statement of Intent: Free Lunches Do Exist
Carol Goldsmith
SPECIAL AWARDS
Anne-Marie Lamarche Piedmont GC Zone XII
Pat Lazor GC of Morristown, Zone IV
Murphy St. Paul GC
Zone XI
Statement of Intent: Every house on Monhegan Island has a clothesline. On a sunny summer’s day, laundry flies in the wind beckoning to be photographed.
Amy
Glenview GC
Zone VII
Statement of Intent: A rake from the "farmer's toolbox" offers a glimpse of the simple life.
Margie Schubert
Editor’s Choice Award
Pat Lazor’s masterfully lit, delicate desert landscape; Amy Murphy’s exquisite, Sorolla-esque clothesline; Margie Schubert’s elegant still life study; and Anne-Marie LaMarche’s early morning landscape all caught my eye when I was considering the Editor’s Choice Award. All four would be worthy selections. I ended up, however, choosing Anne Speed’s sophisticated little study in form, shadow, and color. I hesitated in doing so because the photograph is not perfect. It is a little dark, a little underexposed. Nonetheless, it is a superb example of artistic vision. Anne saw what many people—most—would walk right past. The midnight blues, golds, and blacks are a masterclass in color harmony. The photograph’s structure harkens back to works by early 20th-century blackand-white photographers Paul Strand, László Moholy-Nagy, and André Kertész.
When we judges judge shows, so often we see a well-composed photograph miss the podium because of a technical flaw—often a small flaw. The compositional “bones” of Anne’s photograph are too good to let this one go unnoticed. Well done, Anne.
~ L. Anna Forbes Editor Focus magazine
Little Rock GC
Zone IX
Anne Speed
Susie’s Choice*
I love this photograph! It captures a fleeting and playful mother-child moment in time. It is well-composed and well lit. The light blue sheet adds a whimsical dash of unexpected color. I love seeing something I haven’t seen before. This photograph does just that by documenting an intimate moment in animal life. It makes me happy.
~Susie Brewer
*Susie Brewer is the manager of the 2025 Winter FOCUS contest and the treasurer of the GCA Photography Committee. She is an approved GCA Photography Judge. She managed this contest with skill and good humor. We are so very grateful to her!
~Karen McCormick & L. Anna Forbes
Statement of Intent: Mama and her babe playing peek-a-boo, just like I did with my 'babe'--50 years ago. Timeless game . . . sweet memories.
Stephanie Young
Paducah GC
Zone VII
The Artist’s Toolbox
Congratulations to all!!
~Karen
McCormick, L. Anna Forbes, & Susie Brewer