Creations in Sand

A fascinating capture of such a simple subject, of what looks to be the patterns formed in the sand by wind-blown dune grass. I love the perspective and tilted viewpoint which adds to the abstract and dynamic of the composition. The removal of colour gives more focus on the patterns and shadows, again emphasising the abstract rather than being a record shot of grass in sand. Congratulations on your second place finish.

I love this image, which initially appears rather mystical, as the abstract patterns draw the viewer in and demands further attention. Composition is great, focusing on quite a small area of sand, with the bumpy patterns radiating around the little pool of water. I am not sure if the colours have been altered, but the inky blue really does portray the deep of night, maybe with a hint of cool moonlight too, which emphasises the textures through the highlights and shadows cast across the sand. Congratulations on your third place finish.

There were a lot of entries in this conteet of elaborate and skillfully constructed sand sculptures, but this rather more modest traditional sandcastle, looking to be made using nothing more than a humble bucket and spade, really caught my eye. I love the close-up viewpoint, with the subject virtually filling the frame, which has allowed the foreground and background to be out of focus, leaving the main castle to be in sharp focus. We are close enough in to see all the textures of the sand, which really adds to the shot. Great lighting, casting shadows that means the castle retains a 3-D quality so does not look flat. Great work, well done on your top ten placing.

I have walked along this exact stretch of coast, and if I recall on the section in the distance beyond the pier, such had been the blowing of the sand there was more sand on the promenade than on the beach! Here though we are treated to just a light dusting of blowing sand, creating liquid-like shimmers on the paving. A wise decision to convert the shot to black and white, as the bold contrasts make the mosf of the patterns and shapes, with the posts, poles and people silhouetted against the brighter backdrop. Great image, well done on your top ten placing.

A dramatic and eye-catching image, making the most of the brooding sky and low light to capture the shapes and textures at this coastal location. The black and white contrasty editing is superb and really conveys the drama, emphasising the stark shapes of the little rocky islands off the cosst, contrasting nicely with the gentle sweep of the sand ripples on the beach. Congratulations on your winning image.