UNITED STATES – November 21, 2017: A tree climber got more then he bargained when a grey squirrel came flying out of a limb during a tree removal in Bluemont. Tino’s Tree Service crew was taking down a towering silver maple that was old and in bad shape and needed to come down for the safety of the structure.

Huntsman, Charles Montgomery is surrounded by dogs for the blessing of the hounds as participants gather for a fox hunt organized by the Bull Run Hunt Club on Sunday October 22, 2017 outside of Locust Dale, VA. It was their opening meet for the season.

Warwick High ninth-grader Andrea Thomas, center, takes a blood sample from a simulated crime scene through Newport News Public School’s Career Pathways program on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2017. City Council, School Board Members, and Virginia State Legislators were among a group which toured Warwick and Heritage High School’s Governor’s Academies.

Placing his hands behind his head, the shadow Khalil James projects onto an apartment complex off 400 block of Savade Drive in Newport News on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017. Newport News Police Department and Tactical Operations Unit responded to the incident around 8:50 p.m. , where the suspect surrounded peacefully and was taken into custody for accusations of abduction, assault and battery, brandishing a firearm, failure to appear, capias and a civil summons.

Rameer Battle (left) and Jordan Roney, both kindergarteners at Walnut Hill Elementary, lead a group of kids in a march around the school to protest bullying on Friday Oct. 27, 2017.

Mia Herman has an acquitance take a photo of her sitting on a fire hydrant on a flooded street as Hurricane Irma hits the area on Sunday September 10, 2017 in Miami, FL.

Local pastor Curtis Harris, right, has opened his home to Brandon Gasper, center, who was released from Chesapeake Juvenile Service. Also pictured are Jazell Bodie, left, and Denya Dancy. Curtis Harris runs Original BROTHAS Outreach, a nonprofit that provides support and mentorship to young men, many of whom are involved in juvenile court. For many, Original BROTHAs (Brothers Reaching out to Help and Serve) is an alternative to prison when Newport News and Hampton courts allow it. The program provides tutoring, computer skills, life skills and group counseling, and Harris is on call practically 24/7 for crisis intervention. “Basically he’s the only father I ever knew and he could be my father and teach me how to be a man,” Gasper said.

Artificial light beams through Dean Shostak’s glass violin as he warms up for a show at the Williamsburg Library on Friday , Dec. 8, 2017. Shostak is a multi-instrumental musician who specializing in unique glass instruments. The glass armonica was invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1761 and composers such as Mozart and Beethoven wrote parts for the instrument.

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) speaks to the media about tax reform at Capitol Hill on Tuesday October 24, 2017 in Washington, DC.

Tabb High’s Gracie Roberts (5) nearly takes a ball to the face during the Class 3 state final champion game against James Monroe High held at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017.

York’s Cole Edwards disappointedly sits in the end zone after losing 34-6 to Hopewell during Saturday’s Region 3A championship game at Bailey Field November 25, 2017.

UNITED STATES – July 8, 2017: Photos of the Year for 2017. Morven Park has launched its inaugural season of Polo in the Park at the Morven Park International Equestrian Center. Arena polo matches, picnicking and dancing will take place every Saturday evening in July and August.

Heritage High’s Nehemiah Carter (3) reacts after losing the VHSL Class 4 state semifinals game to Midlothian High held at Heritage High School on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan, center, gives instructions on how to kick a football to fifth grade students Carlie Erwin, left, and Lana Browning during practice Tuesday October 17, 2017. When Shohan joined the varsity team this season, she became not only the lone girl on the squad this season but the first girl in school history to play football. Across the U.S., 1.09 million high school students played tackle football in 2016, according to a survey from the National Federation of State High School Associations; 0.2 percent of those (2,143) were girls. “Society doesn’t really think that girls can do the same things as boys can, but there’s no reason for that,” Shohan said.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan, left, huddles with Tommy Gardner, right, and other teammates during practice Tuesday October 17, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan, center, celebrates with fifth grade student Carlie Erwin after she successfully kicked a field goal during practice Tuesday October 17, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan stretches as cheerleaders run past in the background during Thursday’s game against Norfolk Academy September 28, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan kicks the ball past Norfolk Academy’s John Sykes to successfully complete an extra point during Thursday’s game against Norfolk Academy September 28, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan excitedly talks with teammates after successfully completing an extra point during Thursday’s game against Norfolk Academy September 28, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan, center, leads the team chant after Thursday’s game against Norfolk Academy September 28, 2017.

Hampton Roads Academy’s Lauren Shohan is lifted into the air by teammate Tommy Gardner after successfully completing an extra point during Thursday’s game against Norfolk Academy September 28, 2017.

UNITED STATES – 02-14-2017: Connie Rice, a transgender female and former Marine gets flowers from her boyfriend Ken Watter on valentines day at her home in Leesburg Virginia. Rice identified as female since childhood, but because of parental pressure, she initially took a path of suppression very typical of the times. Rice joined the U.S. Marine Corps, married her wife Birgit and had three sons, all while struggling with and concealing her identity for decades. Rice is still living with her wife Birgit and one son Patrick in the home that they raised three sons.

UNITED STATES – 02-26-2017: (L to R) Connie Rice, Connie’s boyfriend Ken Watter, and Connie’s wife Birgit, get ready for their son Patrick’s 18th birthday party at the Rice home in Leesburg.

United States – November 10, 2017: (L to R) Ryan Rice, Connie’s middle son, Connie’s wife Birgit, and Connie’s boyfriend Ken, join Connie for a night out with the family in Sterling. With support from her family and employer IBM, Rice has cultivated the confidence to find her voice on the national stage, but it hasn’t always been easy. Less than a decade ago, Rice’s world was in turmoil as she began her transition, and there has been plenty of pain along the way. But in the end, acceptance won the day, and a long sought-after sense of normalcy has set in.

UNITED STATES – 05-28-2017: Connie Rice has a laugh with her son Michael during the Rice family annual BBQ to kick off the start of summer. Her son Michael, who supports Donald Trump, clearly loves her and supports her but for Rice things have not always been so rosy. She suffered a breakdown during the early phase of her transition and credits her family and friends for pulling her through that initial crisis and the many financial and emotional hurdles she has encountered on her way to living as a woman.

UNITED STATES – September 3, 2017: Connie Rice and her boyfriend Ken Watter enjoy a date night out for dinner. Rice and Watter got together three years ago after he answered her profile on a dating site. Rice, a transgender female is a outspoken proponent of LGBT rights and often can be seen at public meetings speaking out for the rights of the LGBT community.

UNITED STATES – 02-26-2017: (R to L) Connie Rice, her son Patrick, wife Birgit, daughter-in-law Kim and son Michael enjoy a visit and a cookout before Michael and his wife Kim pull out for new jobs in North Carolina.

UNITED STATES – November 6, 2017: Connie Rice finds a moment to play with her her dog Meeko at her home in Leesburg.

UNITED STATES – July 30, 2017: Connie Rice, a life long cyclist, takes a break at the old Waterford Mill on one of her gravel road rides in Western Loudoun.

UNITED STATES – 03-18-2017: Connie Rice, a transgender woman from Leesburg, and Rae Obeyer, a transgender man with Equality Virginia, have a heated debate with a man attending the United Christian Parish in Reston during the Social Justice & Peace Conference on LGBT rights.

UNITED STATES – 03-18-2017: Connie fights back tears and becomes emotional as she tells her story at one of many speaking engagements. Rice, one of Loudoun’s most visible LGBT advocates tells her story a minimum of twenty times a year, it takes a heavy toll on her sometimes.

UNITED STATES – July 28, 2017: Connie Rice and Virginia’s Attorney General Mark Herring get set to speak during the making of a political TV ad being produced at the AG’s home in Leesburg. The ad will advocate for veterans rights after President Trump tweeted that he was gong to ban transgender people from the military.

UNITED STATES – November 6, 2017: Connie playfully attempts to give her son Patrick, age 17, a hug after he talked about how he explained to some of his friends life growing up with a transgender parent.

Judges: Lauren Frohne, Amanda Snyder and Colin Diltz of the Seattle Times

Features:

First: Douglas Graham, Loudoun Now

Second: Matt McClain, The Washington Post

Third: Aileen Devlin, The Daily Progress

Comments:

1st: Interesting and unusual image. A great moment that stands on its own.

2nd: Nice layering and interesting composition of a hectic scene. And we love dogs.

3rd: Unexpected scene, candid moment composed nicely from a low angle.

News:

First: Aileen Devlin, The Daily Press

Second: Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch

Third: Matt McClain, The Washington Post

Comments:

1st: This is not an image any of us feel like we’ve seen before. Demonstrates a great eye and masterful use of available light in the moment. You can see what’s going on, despite the distance from the scene. In fact, something that could have been an obstacle to make a great image (distance) made this image even more interesting.

2nd: We loved the expressions capture here. Getting down to their level helps capture the passion and personalities of the children. Also not something you see every day.

3rd: The composition really highlights the scale and vastness of the flood. The intentional framing and the posture of the subject make it interesting as well.

Portrait:

First: Jonathon Gruenke, The Daily Press

Second: Aileen Devlin: The Daily Press

Third: Matt McClain: The Washington Post

Comments:

1st: We like the layering and composition of this image, the gestures among the subjects, and an intentional use of reflection that helps tell the story.

2nd: Striking light in this image that is also imperative to the story it’s capturing.

3rd: A strange and interesting image from what could be a bland political event.

Sports:

First: Aileen Devlin, The Daily Press

Second: Jonathon Gruenke, The Daily Press

Third: Douglas Graham, Loudoun Now

HM: Aileen Devlin, The Daily Press

Comments:

1st: We all reacted to this picture, quintessential peak action, you really feel it.

2nd: This images captures a whole story – the score, posture, the isolation (especially striking for a large-team sport).

3rd: We all loved the composition and framing of this one. There’s so much to see and discover as you take the image in.

HM: Nice image that captures emotion.

Multiple:

First: Jonathon Gruenke, The Daily Press

HM: Douglas Graham, Loudoun Now

Comments:

Weak category (only 1st and HM)

1st: Would love to see more of the character off the football field, but we liked the images that captured moments of camaraderie and relationships between the players. Some really unique moments — especially the one where she is being lifted in the air by a teammate.

HM: This is interesting and timely subject matter, but we wished for more visual variety (in composition, details, focal length) and a tighter edit.

Multimedia:

First: Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch

Second: Kaitlin McKeown, The Virginian-Pilot

Comments:

Weak category (only 1st and 2nd)

1st: This story was solid throughout. There were nice moments and sequences, a spunky interview, good visual variety, and also a really interesting topic that we’d never seen before. The story was concise and well-told, just as long as it needed to be. We especially all loved the closing shot.

2nd: Short and sweet. We loved the shot of him during the skydive.

Overall, for this category, we felt that there was a heavy reliance on music, rather than natural sound, and we would urge everyone to really pare down their edits. A really solid 60- to 90-second story, or even 2-minutes, will have more impact than one that tries to pack too much information, too much talking, into it. Let the characters shine through, use moments and sound to help tell the story.

Clayton Rossi, 11, works on his roping skills before during the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo on Thursday July 20, 2017 in Carbondale, CO. The weekly rodeo is in it’s 13th year at it’s current location. It runs from June to mid-August.

Elvis Tribute Artists, Brett LeSueur, of Knoxville, TN puts his arm around fellow tribute artist, Travis Albertson, of Austin, IN as they perform in the backyard of Bud and Mary Stonebraker on Friday August 11, 2017 in Memphis, TN. The couple have lived directly behind Elvis Presley’s Graceland for 22 years. Bud refers to he and his wife as more Elvis fanatics than just fans. Their house is decked out with Elvis memorabilia. They hosted free concerts in their backyard during Elvis Week.

Authorities near the scene of the helicopter crash near Charlottesville on Saturday Aug. 12, 2017. Virginia State Police confirmed two deaths in the crash.

Samantha Huff, left, and Captain Todd Beland, right, take a break as Pig, the potbellied pig, sleeps underneath the ship’s wheel which docked in downtown Hampton on Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

Katie Ford, center, is seen in a shed used for participants to sign up to compete and other rodeo business at the Snowmass Rodeo on Wednesday July 19, 2017 in Snowmass Village, CO. This is the 44th year for the weekly rodeo that runs from mid-June through August.

A person with Unite the Right in Charlottesville on Saturday Aug. 12, 2017. Unite the Right was protesting the changing of the name of Lee Park.

Rick Huffman, center, covers his heart during the playing of the national anthem as he gathers with others before the start of harness racing at the Clark County Fair on Sunday July 30, 2017 in Kahoka, MO. The fair, which began in 1881 featured a demolition derby, tractor pull, and livestock competitions among other attractions. There used to be several days of harness racing at the fair in the past, this year it was on one day. Huffman was competing in the racing.

Captain Todd Beland, left, watches as First Hand Stasia Hudson, takes a swig of whiskey from the bottle as they wait for their catch to be processed in Hampton. Beland sits in the booth where the body of their 5th crew member, Timmy, laid for about an hour after overdosing while out at sea. “Can’t no-one hide from it”. Hudson says. Beland doesn’t allow use of drugs or alcohol until the ship is docked but couldn’t help his 5th crew member that night.

William & Mary quarterback Tommy McKee gets crunched by the Norfolk State defense as he runs during the fourth quarter Saturday September 9, 2017 at Norfolk.

Violinist Kearston Gonzalez, left, and cellist Kendall Gonzalez perform to an audience gathered at the Tabb Library in York County Wednesday afternoon August 9, 2017. The sisters have performed at WNBA and NBA games in Washington, D.C., Charlotte and Houston and both have performed as a soloists with orchestras and won musical competitions.

Garrett Buckley competes in the Saddle Bronc Riding competition at the Snowmass Rodeo on Wednesday July 19, 2017 in Snowmass Village, CO. Buckley got another ride after this first ride ended quickly as the horse he was riding went straight up and over after coming out of the gate. This is the 44th year for the weekly rodeo that runs from mid-June through August.

First Hand Stasia Hudson, pulls Pig while waiting for the boat to be unloaded at L D Amory & Company fish market. Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

BIG ISLAND, VA – JAN 20: Ben Wright heads up Hunting Creek Road through a cloud on Friday, Jan. 20, 2017 near Big Island, Va.

Mary Stonebraker sits in the living room of her home that is directly behind Elvis Presley’s Graceland on Friday August 11, 2017 in Memphis, TN. She and her husband, Bud Stonebraker have lived in the home for 22 years. Bud refers to he and his wife as more Elvis fanatics than just fans. Their house is decked out with Elvis memorabilia. They hosted free concerts in their backyard during Elvis Week.

Zane Farris of Silt, CO poses for a portrait at the Snowmass Rodeo on Wednesday July 19, 2017 in Snowmass Village, CO. Farris was helping out at the rodeo. This is the 44th year for the weekly rodeo that runs from mid-June through August.

Elvis Tribute Artist, Jimmy Smith of Aiken, SC looks over a fence at Graceland from the backyard of Bud and Mary Stonebraker on Monday August 14, 2017 in Memphis, TN. The couple have lived directly behind Elvis Presley’s Graceland for 22 years. Bud refers to he and his wife as more Elvis fanatics than just fans. Their house is decked out with Elvis memorabilia. They hosted free concerts in their backyard during Elvis Week.

Strider Leverton, of Vernel, UT, center, gathers with other participants at the Snowmass Rodeo on Wednesday July 19, 2017 in Snowmass Village, CO. This is the 44th year for the weekly rodeo that runs from mid-June through August.

Artist Sir James Thornhill stands in the newly unveiled mural honoring Arthur Ashe at the pedestrian tunnel to Battery Park on Wednesday July 12, 2017.

LYNCHBURG, VA – JULY 8: All-Area Boy’s Track Athlete of the Year Darrien Bradley poses for a portrait on Saturday, July 8, 2017 in Lynchburg, Va.

Elvis Tribute Artist, Ron Tutor, 52, of Tinley Park, TN prepares to perform while listening to music in his Dodge Caravan outside the New Daisy Theatre during the Images of the King World Championship on Sunday August 13, 2017 in Memphis, TN. August 11-19 is Elvis Week. This year marks the 40th year since Elvis Presley’s death.

An employee with L D Amory & Company unloads a delivery truck as the potbellied pig named Pig hangs out in the shade from underneath a truck. Samantha Huff, left, from Charleston Sc., sits on the steps, watching over Pig, as the crew’s longline fishing boat is unloaded in downtown Hampton. Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

Donald Traynham, of Williamsburg, Va., dressed as Spiderman, peers through the front door at the home of Zack Cissell, on Friday, September 22, 2017 before they left for a charity event they were performing at that evening. The duo, along with Chloe Bethune, are all members of the The Hampton Roads Superhero Squad.

Ely Chavez works to clear debris from her home`following Hurricane Irma in the Tavernier area located in the Florida Keys on Tuesday September 12, 2017 in Tavernier, FL. The family was able to get back to see their home for the first time today. “Didn’t expect it to be this bad”, Ely’s husband, Kevin said while referring to his home.

From below in the sleeping quarters, Stasia Hudson feeds a Ritz cracker to Pig while docked at the L D Amory & Company fish market in downtown Hampton.

Evan Koster attends to his horse while standing next to J.D. Slagowski as Evan’s wife, Maggee Koster holds their daughter, Raelyn Koster, 1, prior to the start of the Snowmass Rodeo on Wednesday July 19, 2017 in Snowmass Village, CO. This is the 44th year for the weekly rodeo that runs from mid-June through August.

The weeks following July 4th out west is known as “Cowboy Christmas” for the number of rodeos that are held and available to participate in. Rodeos have their root in working ranches that held competitions where workers could test their skills. People gather under a threatening sky that produced showers during the Snowmass Rodeo on Wednesday July 19, 2017 in Snowmass Village, CO. This is the 44th year for the weekly rodeo that runs from mid-June through August.

Elvis Tribute Artist, Bruce Hanson of Rice Lake, WI, performs in the backyard of Bud and Mary Stonebraker on Friday August 11, 2017 in Memphis, TN. The couple have lived directly behind Elvis Presley’s Graceland for 22 years. Bud refers to he and his wife as more Elvis fanatics than just fans. Their house is decked out with Elvis memorabilia. They hosted free concerts in their backyard during Elvis Week.

4th. Grade students at Holston View Elementary School watch the solar eclipse outside Holston Elementary School on Monday, August 21, 2017 in the shadow of the school’s Solar Pavilion in background in Bristol, Tennessee.

First Hand Stasia Hudson, walks along the sidewalk with Pig as she waits for the boat to be unloaded at L D Amory & Company fish market in downtown Hampton. The 1 1/2-year-old potbelly pig is the resident pet of the ship and lives on the Carol Ann, a longline fishing boat, with the crew members while at sea. Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

First Hand Stasia Hudson, left, lifts Pig into the boat with the help of shipmate Samantha Huff, right, while their catch was unloaded and processed at L D Amory & Company fish market in Hampton. Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

MEMPHIS, TN – AUGUST 14: Matt Joyce dances with Anne Kathrin to the music of Elvis Tribute Artist, Robert Washington while Amanda Dorrington, is seen at right at Blues City Band Box on Monday August 14, 2017 in Memphis, TN. August 11-19 is Elvis Week. This year marks the 40th year since Elvis Presley’s death.

Forty years after his death, Elvis Presley is still very much alive in the hearts and minds of his many fans. Countless of them made the pilgrimage to Memphis, TN for Elvis Week this year to mark the 40th anniversary of his death. Anglican Archbishop, Dorian A. Baxter of Newmarket, Ontario, Canada and Elvis Tribute Artist performs on Beale Street on Sunday August 13, 2017 in Memphis, TN. Baxter also goes by the name of Elvis Priestley. August 11-19 is Elvis Week. This year marks the 40th year since Elvis Presley’s death.

A participant in the Team Roping event prepares to compete at the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo on Thursday July 20, 2017 in Carbondale, CO. The weekly rodeo is in it’s 13th year at it’s current location. It runs from June to mid-August.

Linda Erwin, right, of Spartanburg, SC tries to secure a scarf from Elvis Tribute Artist, Diogo “Di” Light during the Images of the King World Championship at the New Daisy Theatre on Monday August 14, 2017 in Memphis, TN. August 11-19 is Elvis Week. This year marks the 40th year since Elvis Presley’s death.

UNOH 200 Truck Race Winner Kyle Busch hangs out of his truck while performing a burnout after finishing the Rain Delayed race on Wednesday, August 16, 2017 in Bristol, Tennessee.

Judges:  Maureen Stewart, Art Director, Airman Magazine; Clayton Filipowicz, Director of Social Media, Airman Magazine; Jeff Allen, Operations Chief, Air Force Media

CATEGORIES: 

News

1st: Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch
2nd: Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch
3rd: Matt McClain, The Washington Post

Comments: Chosen for immediate visual impact and emotion for each story. Each photo placed the viewer there, in the thick of it, which allows you to draw the reader further into the story.

The decision between first and second was difficult. The image of the officer kneeling struck me because it was such a raw moment. It shows the brotherhood of the police officers, the toll the job has put on the man kneeling, and it communicated to me that something heart-wrenching just happened.

Sports

1^st : Earl Neikirk, Bristol Herald-Courier
2^nd: Rob Ostermeier, The Daily Press
3^rd: Jay Westcott, The News & Advance

Comments:

Not your typical sports photos-these each offered a unique perspective , in my opinion. All of them offer some beautiful contrast.

First place was the clear winner to me. When I think of swimming, I don’t typically think of it as a team-based sport. But this image shows that the team’s support is just as important as the athlete competing. Wonderful job capturing the moment. Second place captured the intensity and focus of the football players. I like it because it is very true to the game of football. It’s not about looking pretty, it’s about doing everything you can to make the catch (silly faces and all). Third place is a very beautiful photo. Great eye and dedication to get up early and get the photo. Worthy of the top 3.

Feature

1^st : Kristen Zeis, The Virginian-Pilot
2^nd: ^{Earl Neikirk, Bristol Herald-Courier}
3^rd: Matt McClain, The Washington Post

Comments:

I really loved that each of these made me want to either learn more or be there.

First place very strong. It’s an interesting perspective, uncontrolled action, beautiful colors, and a technically sound photo. Beautifully done. First and second were very difficult to decide. I love the simplicity of this photo. The light coming through the door in contrast with the Spiderman outfit made me do a double take for sure. Very nice image. Third place was a very interesting photo. The composition made me want to lok closer to explore what it is that the workers do for a living. Very deserving of top 3.

Portrait

1^st : Jonathan Gruenke, The Daily Press
2^nd:  Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch
3^rd: Jay Westcott, The News & Advance

Comments:

All of these were visually stunning and shot so well. Great light, composition and use of negative space. The tunnel man placed first because it showed his personality the best. His sense of style paired with the crossed arms convey attitude. But the colorful tunnel really brings it home. LOVE IT. Third and Second place were very, very close. The violinists were beautifully composed in the photo, well done. Really draws your attention in. Third place was a very sound photograph that shows he is a talented athlete. Both photos are very literal in that it shows objects to convey what they enjoy. However, I’d like to see personality as well, which is what the first place photo did really well.

Multiple

1^st : Matt McClain, The Washington Post
^{2nd: Aileen Devlin, The Daily Press}
3^rd: Matt McClain, The Washington Post

Comments:

Great series’ with intimate looks inside to the subjects lives.

The rodeo has a solid diversity of images. Could tell you were thinking outside the box on some of the shots. You have a lot of strong images but more importantly, you had a coherent story that was easy to piece together through photos. Oher submissions also had good images sprinkled throughout, but were lacking story. Second place had some phenomenal photos throughout, but it was all over the place without any context.

Multimedia

1^st : 03 2017 Kristen Zeis, The Virginian-Pilot
2^nd: Lathan Goumas, The News & Advance
3^rd: Aileen Devlin, The Daily Press

Comments:

Each of these were emotional and really gave me a look at the people behind the story. Lots of fundamental issues here though (technically) especially with audio and pacing. This was across all entries.

WASHINGTON, DC – May 03: A visitor is illuminated while passing through the rotunda at the United States Capitol on Wednesday May 03, 2017 in Washington, DC.

Zackary Reynolds, 9, left, attempts to catch a piece of popcorn in his mouth after the Peninsula Pilots season opener was cancelled due to a severe thunderstorm on Wednesday, May 31, 2017.

Aliza Matos, 11, attempts to fly her kite into the air at Riverview Farm Park Wednesday evening May 3, 2017.

Zahra Almahdi, left, stands in the background as Mohamad, 9, holds his father’s hand, Abdul-Kareem Almahdi, right, in the living room of their home in Newport News. Originally from Raqqah, Syria, the family spent four years living at a refugee camp in Jordan before being relocated to the United States. Almahdi works the night shift at a pharmaceutical company in Williamsburg and only sees his family for a small portion of the day.

Local Syrian refugee family aid Rabia Jafir, left, holds hands with Laith Almahdi, 5, right, while entering the Hampton Health Clinic. Jafir helps the family by driving the children to various appointments, like immunization shots, since their mother is not licensed to drive and the father works long night shifts. The family previously had current vaccines while living in Syria but the recent move to United States required new documentation under U.S. law. Friday, March 10, 2017.

Abdul Kareem Almahdi, left, holds the mouth of his youngest son, Laith, 5, to show the dental assistant new teeth growth during an appointment on Thursday, March 30, 2017. Originally from Raqqah, Syria, the family spent four years living at a refugee camp in Jordan before being relocated to the United States. Located in the north eastern part of Syria and seized by militants in late 2013, the city the family once lived, is now the capitol of the Islamic State.

The Almahdi children watch television captioned in Arabic as Rabia Jafir, center, waves goodbye to the family after a visit on Friday, March 10, 2017. Jafir acts as a family aid to multiple Syrian refugee families living in Newport News, assisting them with everyday adjustments to their new American life.

From left: Yancarlo Villanueva, Laith Almahdi, 5, and Dasiyah Newby, 5, share a moment while waiting in line to leave art class at Carver Elementary School on Thursday, March 30, 2017.

From left: Yazan 15, Mohamad, 9, mother Zahara, Malak, 7, and Laith Almahdi, 5, use a smartphone to FaceTime with their eldest sibling Hadeel, 18, who lives in Jordan with her husband and 10-month-old-daughter on Monday, April 3, 2017.

Mohamad Almahdi, 7, poses by a spot of sunlight at the family’s home on Monday, April 3, 2017. “We could not find the doctor. We could not buy food. It was not safe for me, for my children.” Mohamed’s father said. “We had to go.”

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: United States Naval Academy plebes participate in the annual Sea Trials. Each year freshmen from the Academy take part in a variety of courses and exercises over the course of a day. From crawling under barb wire to multi-part obstacle course. The sun rises as Naval Academy plebes take part in the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: Naval Academy plebes go through the trench area that is part of the “Wet and Sandy” portion of the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: Naval Academy plebes rinse off as they go through the “Wet and Sandy” portion of the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: Naval Academy plebe, Jacob Cuningham, bottom right, goes through the beach area that is part of the “Wet and Sandy” portion of the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: Naval Academy plebes climb ropes that were part of an obstacle course during the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: A Naval Academy plebe climbs a rope that was part of an obstacle course during the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: Naval Academy plebes cross over a bridge during the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: A Naval Academy plebe goes through the trench area that is part of the “Wet and Sandy” portion of the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – May 16: Naval Academy plebe, Grace Rovira, left center, wipes off her face after taking part in the “Wet and Sandy” portion of the annual Sea Trials at the United States Naval Academy on Tuesday May 16, 2017 in Annapolis, MD.

Crew members of the submarine USS Indiana stand during the christening of the Virginia-class submarine Indiana at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017. The Indiana Ñ or SSN-789 Ñ is the 16th boat in the Virginia class of nuclear-powered subs being built. A total of 14 former Navy sailors from the last USS Indiana, the BB-58, a World War II-era battleship attended the christening. All in their 90s, they are among the roughly 60 or so men left from the original crew of 2,300. Vice President Mike Pence, who was governor of Indiana before becoming vice president, will keynote Saturday’s event celebrating the Hoosier State’s namesake vessel. The $2.5 billion, 377-foot Indiana will be delivered to the Navy in early 2018.

Hundreds of people gather Saturday morning during the christening of the Virginia-class submarine Indiana at Newport News Shipbuilding April 29, 2017.

Crew members of the submarine USS Indiana take selfies before the start the christening of the Virginia-class submarine Indiana at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017.

Vice President Mike Pence, left, and ship sponsor Diane Donald stand beneath the Virginia-class submarine Indiana before the start of the christening ceremony at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017. Diane Donald, the wife of Retired U.S. Navy Adm. Kirkland H. Donald, will christen the Indiana by smashing a bottle of sparkling wine across its hull. Kirkland Donald commanded the Navy’s nuclear propulsion program before retiring in 2012.

Vice President Mike Pence hands out a coin before the start of the christening ceremony for the Virginia-class submarine Indiana at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017.

From left, Vice President Mike Pence, Commander Jesse J. Zimbauer, and Matt Mulherin, president of Newport News Shipbuilding, watch as ship sponsor Diane Donald smashes a bottle of sparkling wine across the hull of the Virginia-class submarine Indiana during the christening ceremony at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017.

Several veterans from a previous USS Indiana, a World War II-era battleship, are recognized as Vice President Mike Pence speaks during the christening of the Virginia-class submarine Indiana at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017. A total of 14 former Navy sailors from the last USS Indiana, the BB-58, a World War II-era battleship attended the christening. All in their 90s, they are among the roughly 60 or so men left from the original crew of 2,300.

From left, Vice President Mike Pence, Commander Jesse J. Zimbauer, and Matt Mulherin, president of Newport News Shipbuilding, celebrate after ship sponsor Diane Donald smashed a bottle of sparkling wine across the hull of the Virginia-class submarine Indiana during the christening ceremony at Newport News Shipbuilding Saturday morning April 29, 2017.

ARLINGTON, VA – May 29: Brittany Jacobs sits with her son, Christian Jacobs, 6, near the grave of Christian’s father, U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christopher James Jacobs as they visit in observance of Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday May 29, 2017 in Arlington, VA. Jacobs died during a training exercise in 2011.

Arriving from Smithfield, Va., family friend and long-time supporter Lisa Fry, left, shares a hug with Pamela Scott, right, at Scott’s mother’s home in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. In early 1987 at the age of 23, addicted and selling cocaine, Scott was convicted of first degree murder and robbery in Hampton, Va. While incarcerated she received her GED, became licensed for cosmetology and is now living as a hair dresser in North Carolina. Scott falls under Virginia’s old parole laws, in which a five-member state board determines whether to release inmates. Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Keir Johnson’s mother Rhonda Crews and her grandmother Helen Crews attend a press conference about the missing woman and her daughter Chloe Friday, May 12, 2017, at the Hampton Police Division, in Hampton, Va. Police in Virginia fear someone has kidnaped the mother and eight month old daughter.

David LeGrand holds up a prosthetic eye to measure for accurate pupil size before beginning painting a new scleral cover shell for Martha Seidel, of Virginia Beach, Va., at LeGrand Associates in Chesapeake, Va., on Wednesday, May 31, 2017.

Jamestown’s Grayson DeBerry is the tennis athlete of the year.

Rev. Alexander Evans who at the time was pastor of Blacksburg Presbyterian Church during the Virginia Tech shootings and was chaplain to the Blacksburg Police Department, found his calling helping law enforcement cope with trauma. He started a non-profit, Virginia Law Enforcement Assistance Program, which holds seminars for police officers who have been through trauma. He now preaches at Second Presbyterian in Richmond.

A mime with Virginia Beach-based Magical Solutions prepares to exit a tent and perform at Hampton Roads PrideFest on June 17, 2017 in Town Point Park.

Dorothy Clark holds a comfort blanket named Happy Feet, in the bedroom of her Virginia Beach, Va., apartment on Wednesday, June 7, 2017. Clark, who has an intellectual disability, is able to live independently with the help of the Hope House Foundation.

Lexi Thompson celebrates with friends Dan and Sydney Steger after winning the 2017 LPGA Kingsmill Championship Sunday May 21st. Thompson set a tournament record at 20 under beating Annika Sorenstam’s record set in 2008.

Northside High School third baseman Sam McLaughlin (23) loses the ball as Cave Spring’s Logan Altizer (7) slides into third safely during the first inning of the Region 3A West quarter final at Northside High School Tuesday evening, May 30, 2017. Cave Spring won 4-3.

Hickory’s Jacob Mustain tags out Hanover’s Brian Sisson during the fourth inning of their game at Hickory High School in Chesapeake, Va., on Wednesday, April 12, 2017.

York High’s Britney Hepner (27) catches the ball during the 3A East Region softball semifinal game against Riverside High held at York High School on Thursday, June 1, 2017.

Tabb High’s Andrew Lenfant (8) reacts while Riverside High players accept the trophy after winning the 3A East Region boys soccer championship held at York High School on Monday, June 5, 2017.

 
JUDGES:
Mykal McEldowney, Jenna Watson and Bob Scheer of the Indianapolis Star

NEWS
FIRST:  Matt McClain, The Washington Post
SECOND: Aileen Devlin, Daily Press
THIRD:  Rob Ostermaier, The Daily Press
HM:  Kristen Zeis, The Virginian-Pilot

Three winners exemplified strongest moments of all news entries. This was a very strong category, photographers worked scenes well trying to find interesting way to shoot the mundane. Honorable mention might have placed higher if it had been entered as a portrait, it didn’t hold up content-wise against other news topics.

PORTRAIT
FIRST:  Jonathan Gruenke, The Daily Press
SECOND:  Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch
THIRD:  Kaitlin McKeown, The Virginian-Pilot
HM: Kristen Zeis, The Virginian-Pilot

Many the posed portraits where subject was looking into camera felt forced or uncomfortable. First place portrait displayed the strongest aesthetic and composition, a beautifully executed sports portrait. The second and honorable mention portraits do a great job conveying mood with clean lighting and space to breath in compositions. Third place was fun, unexpected perspective that stood out.

SPORTS
FIRST:  Rob Ostermaier, The Daily Press
SECOND:  Erica Yoon, The Roanoke Times
THIRD:  Kristen Zeis, The Virginian-Pilot
HM: Aileen Devlin, Daily Press
HM: Aileen Devlin, Daily Press

There were many strong but repetitive sports features in this category—lots of mobs of players yelling. First place offered a truly unique and difficult to find moment from what can be a slower-paced, predictable sport. Second and third place captured clean peak action from perfect points of view. Honorable mentions were almost-there execution wise— Ball catch could be cleaner composition and we wish the huddle in the background was a quicker read.

FEATURE
FIRST:  Matt McClain, The Washington Post
SECOND:  Aileen Devlin, Daily Press
THIRD:  Jonathan Gruenke, The Daily Press

First and third place winners immediately stood out to judges aesthetically on first time looking through feature entries. Second place was a quick, think-outside-the-box moment that we crave in a feature image. Other similar entries were not quite as strong technically or offered less surprising moments.

MULTIPLES
FIRST:  Aileen Devlin, Daily Press
SECOND:  Matt McClain, The Washington Post
THIRD:  Jonathan Gruenke, The Daily Press

Something that judges always seem to bring up for multiple categories— When in doubt, edit tighter. First place offered the best balance of narrative, shot variety and sequencing. Sequencing was also beautiful in second place winner, an all-around attractive set of pictures. Third place offered thorough coverage of a daily news event, the photographer put in extra effort to work scene. Non-winning stories didn’t quite dig deep enough with subject. Non-winning daily assignment entries didn’t offer quite enough shot variety. We would have loved tighter edit of church renovation essay to show faster transition of before and after.

MULTIMEDIA
FIRST:  Kaitlin McKeown, The Virginian-Pilot
SECOND:  Kaitlin McKeown, The Virginian-Pilot
THIRD:  Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch

First and second place were well-produced and had clean, interesting shots that kept our attention while carrying a narrative— Two opposite types of videos that displayed similar strong suits. Third place needed a tighter edit, we feel the story could have been told in 1 and a half to 2 minutes just as well. A close contender for third was the opening night of baseball season video, but we thought the music was distracting after about a minute, and the slow motion lingered too long on several shots losing our attention. Felt more like marketing content than journalism. As for surveyors trespassing video, we liked the effort and access, but thought there needed to be more strategy put into providing the viewer with the narrative to keep it moving along and make the topic clear sooner in the video. Most importantly, with a “controversial” issue like this, we need to hear from opposing party or at least include in a slide somewhere that they did not respond for comment, if that was the case.

Military members rehearse for Donald Trump’s Presidential Inauguration at the United States Capitol on Sunday January 15, 2017 in Washington, DC.

Lucas Wooldridge (left), Ladon Wooldridge and Lucas Solorzano shoot baskets while at Jump Trampoline Park on Monday. The park usually opens at 3:00 but opened in the morning for kids to enjoy while off of school because of the snow. “Obviously parents want to get their kids out and get all that energy out,” said owner Brent Fortenberg. “We wanted to give them that option.” The park opened in November on Candlers Mountain Road, making it the third location for Jump Trampoline Parks with other locations in Charlottesville and Virginia Beach. Fortenberg plans on opening the park whenever there is a snow day. “As long as it’s doable we want to be able to reach the community any way we can.”

ALEXANDRIA, VA – MARCH19: People play basketball under the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge at Jones Point Park on Sunday March 19, 2017 in Alexandria, VA.

Brian Anderson, center, controls his model train from the lower level of the Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders club in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts.

Members Brian Anderson, left, and Jim Boyer, right, laugh while operating their model trains at the Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders club in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts.

Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders member Tommt Hunter watches as his train rides through the wooden helix at the clubhouse in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts.

A model train rides alone the tracks at the Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders clubhouse in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts. Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017.

Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders President Geoff Holman lifts the roof from a scratch-made building showing the electric wiring details at the clubhouse in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts. Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017.

Jim Boyer controls his model train while at the Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders club in York County on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017.

A miniature store front building is lite up at the Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders club in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts.Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017.

Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders member Robert Green stands in the lower level of the clubhouse in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts. Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017.

Model trains create a pattern of colors while resting on the tracks at the Chesapeake Bay and Western Model Railroaders club in York County. This tight quartered, three story location in Grafton is a 2400-square-foot building housing over 16 scale miles of track which provides an overstimulation of detail for any age of train enthusiasts. Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017.

Megan Harris stretches the neck of her daughter Emmeline Harris, 8, at the family’s home on Thursday Feb. 2, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va. Emmeline was born with a rare condition knows as CHARGE Syndrome that affects one in every 8,000-10,000 births according to the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation. CHARGE Syndrome can have a wide variety of symptoms that include vision impairment, hearing loss, heart defects and developmental delays.

Emmeline Harris, 8, does her homework with the help of her mother Megan Harris on Thursday Feb. 2, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va. Emmeline has a sever articulation disorder which can make it difficult for others to understand her when she talks.

Josh Harris and Emmeline Harris, 8, play video games after Emmeline finished her homework on Wednesday Jan. 25, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va.

Emmeline Harris, 8, hangs upside down while being held by her father Josh Harris on Wednesday Jan. 25, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va.

Emmeline Harris, 8, dances during a class at Sweet Briar College on Monday Jan. 23, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va. Emmeline was born without semicircular ear canals and can have trouble balancing. To compensate for this Emmeline uses the horizon for balance which increases her chances of tripping, according to her mother Megan Harris.

Emmeline Harris, 8, stands in the sun with members of her Girl Scout troop as they try and keep warm while selling cookies on Saturday Feb. 4, 2017 in Madison Heights, Va.

Emmeline Harris, 8, hugs Abigail Eggleston, 7, while selling cookies with their Girl Scout troop on Saturday Feb. 4, 2017 in Madison Heights, Va.

The Harris family looks through Disney pins they plan to trade while prepare for a trip to Walt Disney World on Thursday Feb. 2, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va.

Emmeline Harris, 8, plays video games on Wednesday Jan. 25, 2017 in Sweet Briar, Va. Because Emmeline was born with out semicircular ear canals to help her balance she likes to play video games because she can play them while sitting or lying down.

Cody McCune wraps his arm around his wife Brittany McCune as their daughter Meadow,3, sits between them during a service at Evergreen Baptist Church marking the one year anniversary of a tornado on Thursday Feb. 23, 2017 in Appomattox, Va. “We’re slowly getting back on our feet,” Cody McCune said of the family, who lost their home in the storm.

(From left) Latanya Walker and her sisters China and Dequalla hold each other during the vigil on Monday Feb. 20, 2017 for their sister Shaquenda Walker who was shot killed with her mother Deborah Walker at the Oliver Crossing apartments on Thursday.

As seen reflected in a window, participants walk along Atlantic Avenue in the Faith, Freedom, Justice March held in Virginia Beach, Va., on Saturday, February 25, 2017.

Members of the Navy salute before President Donald Trump speaks abroad the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford CVN-78 at Newport News Shipbuilding Thursday afternoon March 2, 2017.

Fans run onto the court to celebrate with Christopher Newport University’s Marcus Carter, left, after defeating Salisbury 55-53 during Wednesday’s game at the Freeman Center January 25, 2017.

Grafton’s Zack Wojnarowski tries to get the tag on Tabb’s Hunter Watson as he slides in safe at second during the fourth inning Tuesday March 21, 2017.

CNU teammates surround in Makeda Wright (2) in celebration after defeating UMW during the Capital Athletic Championship game held at Christopher Newport University on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017.

Hampton native Raymond McNeil poses for a photograph next to a sewing machine at his home mother’s home in Hampton. Currently living in L.A., McNeil is a fashion designer who designed multiple dresses for Margot Lee Shetterly, the author of “Hidden Figures, ” as she travels on the press tour for the movie. Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016.

Chef Mike Ledesma poses for a portrait on Friday March 24, 2017. Ledesma is headlining Taste of Richmond. He is the corporate executive chef for Richmond Restaurant Group, which operates The Hill Cafe, East Coast Provisions, Pearl Raw Bar, The Daily Kitchen & Bar and two locations of The Hard Shell.

APPOMATTOX, VA – JAN 8: Delonta Kelso, All-Area Athlete of the Year, Defense, poses for an HDR Portrait on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017 in Appomattox, Va.

Delores Nash Hicks was one of the last members of New London United Methodist Church before it closed in 1990.

Judges:
Kyle Robertson, Adam Cairns and Josh Bickel of the The Columbus Dispatch

NEWS:
FIRST: Lathan Goumas, The News & Advance
SECOND:  Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch
THIRD:  Kristen Zeis, The Virginian-Pilot
HM:  Jonathan Gruenke, The Daily Press

This was hard because we felt there was really good spot news along with general news photos.  1st and 2nd were the best of the group.  They both show great emotion and good job on the photographers to get names.  2nd place would have had a fighting chance at 1st place but it looks like someone is on the right.  We understand that things like that happen.  1st place is a little cleaner and we love how the little girl is popping up to look on.

FEATURE:
FIRST:  Matt McClain, The Washington Post
SECOND:  Jill Nance, The News & Advance
THIRD:  Matt McClain, The Washington Post

The group really loved 1st place, we liked the alignment of the military and also the light on the left and right.  The group liked 2nd place because it looked like the photographer worked to get a good picture.  The group noted that the photographer should of cropped out the yellow sign on the left and the wall on the right out of the photo.  3rd place was a really good layered image.

SPORTS:
FIRST:  Jonathan Gruenke, The Daily Press
SECOND:  Rob Ostermaier, The Daily Press
THIRD:  Aileen Devlin, Daily Press

Sports was very weak compared to the others.  We liked the top 2 photos the best and went back and forth on what one we liked the best.  2nd place was a great sports action image and 3rd place was the best of the rest.

MULTIPLE:
FIRST:  Aileen Devlin, Daily Press
SECOND:  Daniel Sangjib Min, Richmond Times-Dispatch
THIRD:  Lathan Goumas, The News & Advance

Wow there was some really good work in this category.  1st place had a great range of photos.  We really liked #9.  2nd place looks like they took their time and had some good access.  3rd place was good but could of cut down the number of images to 6.

PORTRAIT:
FIRST: Aileen Devlin, Daily Press
SECOND:  Shelby Lum, Richmond Times-Dispatch
THIRD:  Jay Westcott, The News & Advance
HM: Jill Nance, The News & Advance

We really the 1st place winner because it was so different.  2nd was really nice evening portrait with good use of a flash.  3rd just something we haven’t seen before.  HM was the best of the rest.

2016 Best in Show: P. Kevin Morley, Richmond Times-Dispatch

1st Place Photographer of the Year: Jonathon Gruenke, Daily Press

2nd Place Photographer of the Year, Matt McClain, Washington Post

3rd Place Photographer of the Year, Kristen Zeis, Virginian-Pilot