2023 Louis Parsons III Memorial Photo Contest
Judges: Terry Plowman, Publisher of Delaware Beach Life; John Sisson, President of the Art League of Ocean City; Zachary Garmoe, Environmental Scientist and Photographer.
Sponsor: Jeff Williams is the former publisher of Oceana Magazine and was a good friend of Lou's. They spent many fun-filled times in Ocean City and Paris. Jeff always admired Lou's photographic talents and donated the prize money with his corporate sponsor, Associa, for this inaugural contest.
Bay Sunsets (Grand Prize Winner): "Rainbow in Ocean Pines on St Martin’s River" by Rae Schopp Photo Description: After a rainstorm, a full rainbow appeared Judge’s Notes: Almost biblical in its imagery, the artist faces east to capture an amazing confluence of natural phenomena: the calm after the storm, the rainbow of promise, the glowing light of the "golden hour" against the structures across the inlet, a sky filled with vibrant color, the lone boat giving balance to the composition. As photographers we are sometimes lucky enough to find ourselves at a certain place and time, and smart enough to snap the shutter at the perfect moment. This artist has scored. The window reflected at the lower right is a minor flaw that does not detract from the overall effect, and can easily be photoshopped out for publication.
Ocean City Beach: "Swirls from Curls" by Brendan Medairy Photo Description: A downward look at the art of waves. Judge’s Notes: I found the four shades that run vertically through the image very visually interesting, and thought that the choice of moment ( a new break crashing while the prior one was receding) to be a very nice choice and is indicated in the name. It was very well done from both a compositional and technical perspective. I also appreciated the inclusion of beachgoers on the left hand side. To me the Ocean City beach is, in part, defined by those who use and love it, and this image wouldn't have been the same if he had used a deserted portion of beach.
Ocean City Boardwalk: "Deck Settings" by Caryn Kauffman Photo Description: An incredible sunrise seen from the boardwalk at 26th Street. Judge’s Notes: This was a tough decision because the boardwalk category included several excellent images, all eye-catching. What set this winning image apart is that its striking, colorful sky pulls you in, then its more subtle details keep you in: The rectangular framing elements create what seems like a picture of two gentle waves within the larger picture; the familiar horizontal tracks of a beach-cleaner add texture; the many other horizontal and vertical lines are offset by the welcoming curve of the hammock in the foreground; and then, almost hidden in the shadow at the top, we see the “Welcome to the porch” sign. I do feel welcomed into this scene!
People's Choice Winner: "Morning Silhouette Sunrise" by Lee Wilkinson Number of Votes: 915 Photo Description: Early Morning Skyline Silhouette of OC from Isle of Wight Pier. You can follow Lee’s photography at @yukon7272. His OC Pier photograph is the cover of the Fall 2023/24 Ocean City Visitors Guide!