The Weather

I did not expect a portrait to be my winning image in this contest, but I love this shot. Many find cold and snowy wintery weather quite miserable, but I love the feeling of pure joy that this image portrays. This is all the more so by it being an adult rather than a child, perfectly capturing a playful moment. The conversion to black and white has been done well, with a good range of tones and contrasts. Congratulations on your winning image.

The unusual composition, with tall expanse of grey sky sitting above just a small area of land across the bottom of the frame may not be to everyone's taste, but I think this is a great shot and the composition works well to create a bold image, adding to the drama and the mood. Lighting is good on the hilltops lightly covered with snow, adding to the effectiveness of the photo. Great image, well done on your top ten placing.

A stark yet beautiful scene, superbly composed to offer the viewer much to explore, despite being quite minimalistic. The lines of fencing give a nice lead into the frame, but the composition does not look forced, instead we are gently guided through the frame to the barn and trees in the background. Exposure and processing of the image has been very carefully handled, with much of the frame filled with white, with more delicate darker contrasts. Congratulations on your second place finish.

Despite the misty conditions, this image is bursting with freshness, and I can certainly bring to mind the smell of the cool damp fresh air of the forest. I am especially drawn to the naturalness of the image, showing nature simply and effectively. The track leading through the trees invites the viewer to explore what lies behind. Well done on your top ten placing.

A stunning winter scene, capturing a herd of sheep as they stroll along the hilltops and gather together, making the perfect foreground to this quietly beautiful landscape. Lighting is lovely, looking to be shot towards the low afternoon sun, nicely illuminating the sheep and creating some interesting shadows. A perfect day for a winter hike, wonderfully captured. Congratulations on your third place finish.