Sunday, February 24, 2013

My Winning Photograph

I was flabbergasted and beyond thrilled when I was notified that I had won FIRST PLACE in the annual Art & Photography Contest by Ozarks Writers League in February. I mean I almost needed garlic waved in front of my nose. To my dismay, I was out of state during the meeting to receive this honor. Still, it was amazing news.

As background, this was the first time I had entered a photography contest and it certainly won't be my last. Most of you know I am not tech savvy. Not in the least. I finally threw away my corded Princess phone (okay, it was almost that bad) and bought a new-fangled phone that has a great camera. Ever since my phone/camera purchase, I've been snapping pictures constantly. I'll run to catch a great shot, crouch, squint, try different angles, stand in the hot sun or on an icy patch--whatever it takes. I almost feel like a real photographer.

Okay, okay. I know you just want to see the winning photo. I entered a few and honestly thought a couple of wildlife photos might have a chance at placing. This award-winning photo caught me by surprise (a very pleasant surprise). It's funny. Really funny and is a home-made car by an ingenious person. I first took photos of the exterior but couldn't see the rich, humorous details inside. So, I got close to the car from every possible angle and came up with this... Note: It's best enjoyed in the 8" x 10" version.


Car spotted in Cape Coral, Florida. It really runs!
"Car Seats" photo by Beth Carter




26 comments:

  1. What a great pic! Of course you won! Nice eye. I love everything about it ;) Congrats!

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    1. Thanks, Lisa. It's such a cool, funny car. I hope to meet the owner someday and give him the photo!

      I love the unique touches of the grocery carts and female pics.

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  2. Would love to see the car. Great pic. Sounds like you are becoming a tech-y.

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    1. Thanks. You'll have to go to Florida to see it. I spotted it on two occasions. And, nah, on the techy part. ;)

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  3. That's a great pic. And to think, you just need a camera phone these days. My nephew is a photographer and he said those camera phones take awesome pics. Obviously, he's right. Great job, Beth.

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    1. They do a great job if you have a newer one, but I intend to buy a camera with a zoom lens because I missed a great shot of a fin in the water! It was a dolphin. ;)

      Thanks, Shirley!

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  4. Now that's a picture that tells a story. Nicely done.

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    1. Thanks, Sharon. That means a lot coming from a professional photographer like you!

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  5. Dear Beth,
    Your photo really stood out at the conference. The fact that it wasn't a nature, barn or country photo made it a stand out. I chuckled the first time I saw it and was thrilled when it won. Congratulations again and thanks for the loan for Friday Fictioneers.
    Shalom,
    Rochelle

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    1. Thanks for your kind words, Rochelle. My hubby said that he wouldn't have entered it. I said, "I think they'll love it!" And I guess they did. :)

      Congrats to you for receiving the Best In Show award!!! Can't wait to see your work.

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  6. Congratulations, Beth. The photo is awesome.

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  7. Curious...is your hubby a photographer?

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    1. Nope. He doesn't have a creative bone! Why do you ask?

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  8. Of course you are a real photographer! And the kind I like, who takes shots of the unusual and interesting things that catch the eye. Anyone can take pictures of landscapes and wildlife... Thanks for the great prompt this week...

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    1. Thanks, Ted. You just made my day. Glad you like the photo and I can't wait to read all the stories and write one myself!

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  9. Hooray! Congrats on winning 1st Place. My guest blogger, Rachel Crofton, had a blast with this picture. I haven't posted it yet, but watch for it later today.

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    1. Cool. I can't wait to read it! I'm working on my story right now. Thanks, Russell.

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  10. Enjoyed both stories, and your photo. Congratulations!

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    1. Thank you, Sandra. Enjoyed yours as well.

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    2. Thank you, Sandra. Enjoyed yours as well.

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    4. Thank you, Sandra. Enjoyed yours as well.

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  11. Hi Beth,
    Congrats on your big win. I blew the photo up big and looked at all the interesting little details. You must have a good eye to have taken this photo. Ron

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    1. Thank you, Ron. I couldn't get enough of this car and all its crazy, intricate details. I'm glad everyone is enjoying it.

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