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Photo Contest Winners

2021 Qtr. 2 Singles

Guest User

Quarter 2 judge, Marcia Prouse

Judge’s notes & bio at bottom of page

General News

First Place: Ringo Chiu, Agence France-Presse

A girl looks on as Migrants from Guatemala take out their shoelaces as they are initially processed after turn themselves over to authorities at the United States and Mexico border May 12, 2021 in Yuma, Arizona.

A girl looks on as Migrants from Guatemala take out their shoelaces as they are initially processed after turn themselves over to authorities at the United States and Mexico border May 12, 2021 in Yuma, Arizona.

Second Place: Patrick Fallon, Agence France-Presse

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) offices wrestle a knife away from a person experiencing homelessness as they detained during an event with Los Angeles City Council Member and mayoral candidate Joe Buscaino announcing his "Plan For A Safer Los Angeles" at Venice Beach on June 7, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. Mayoral candidate Joe Buscaino spoke about his "Plan For A Safer Los Angeles" to address the homelessness crisis in the city, as homeless encampments of unhoused people across the city remain a key issue for the city's residents.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) offices wrestle a knife away from a person experiencing homelessness as they detained during an event with Los Angeles City Council Member and mayoral candidate Joe Buscaino announcing his "Plan For A Safer Los Angeles" at Venice Beach on June 7, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. Mayoral candidate Joe Buscaino spoke about his "Plan For A Safer Los Angeles" to address the homelessness crisis in the city, as homeless encampments of unhoused people across the city remain a key issue for the city's residents.

Third Place: Don Bartletti, Freelance

APRIL 21, 2021. SAN LUIS, ARIZONA. Two Cuban nationals fall to their knees after scaling a gate in the U.S./Mexico border fence at San Luis, Arizona. They and companions behind them squeezed through an existing cut in the barbed wire. They told me the stunt was a spontaneous act of celebration to end their journey from Cuba and through Central America and Mexico. This $-multi-million barrier on the banks of the Colorado River was funded, engineered and built during the Trump Administration - but it sits 100 yards inside Arizona. Scores of people daily trek over the dry river bed and land on U.S. territory. This is the only time in my 42 years of photographing border dynamics where not a single undocumented immigrant attempted to flee capture. Everyone begged to be taken into custody and pleaded for asylum.

APRIL 21, 2021. SAN LUIS, ARIZONA. Two Cuban nationals fall to their knees after scaling a gate in the U.S./Mexico border fence at San Luis, Arizona. They and companions behind them squeezed through an existing cut in the barbed wire. They told me the stunt was a spontaneous act of celebration to end their journey from Cuba and through Central America and Mexico. This $-multi-million barrier on the banks of the Colorado River was funded, engineered and built during the Trump Administration - but it sits 100 yards inside Arizona. Scores of people daily trek over the dry river bed and land on U.S. territory. This is the only time in my 42 years of photographing border dynamics where not a single undocumented immigrant attempted to flee capture. Everyone begged to be taken into custody and pleaded for asylum.

Honorable Mention: Francisco Lozano, Freelance

Asylum seeker gets a haircut from a relative while they wait in a tent city near the Mexico-U.S. border at El Chaparral in Tijuana, Mexico.

Asylum seeker gets a haircut from a relative while they wait in a tent city near the Mexico-U.S. border at El Chaparral in Tijuana, Mexico.

Honorable Mention: Eric Thayer, Freelance

Texas State Police officers assist asylum seeking migrants illegally crossing the Rio Grande River at the U.S.-Mexico in Roma, Texas, April 25, 2021.

Texas State Police officers assist asylum seeking migrants illegally crossing the Rio Grande River at the U.S.-Mexico in Roma, Texas, April 25, 2021.

Honorable Mention: Patrick Fallon, Agence France-Presse

People watch as they drive through Easter themed tents after receiving kits to host their own Covid-19 pandemic safe celebrations during a drive-in Easter Eggstravaganza for children including foster youth during an event held by Guardians of Love and Los Angeles Mission on April 2, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.

People watch as they drive through Easter themed tents after receiving kits to host their own Covid-19 pandemic safe celebrations during a drive-in Easter Eggstravaganza for children including foster youth during an event held by Guardians of Love and Los Angeles Mission on April 2, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.

Honorable Mention: Thomas R Cordova, Long Beach Post

Terri Cole has a moment seconds after receiving her son, Sean Phoenix Cole-Smith, high school diploma as she walked for him at the eighty-sixth annual Jordan High School graduation at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Long Beach Tuesday, June 15, 2021. Sean battled and died from ataxia-telangiectasia.

Terri Cole has a moment seconds after receiving her son, Sean Phoenix Cole-Smith, high school diploma as she walked for him at the eighty-sixth annual Jordan High School graduation at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Long Beach Tuesday, June 15, 2021. Sean battled and died from ataxia-telangiectasia.

Honorable Mention: Justin L. Stewart, Freelance

Aerial view of the Energy Observer, the first vessel powered by renewable energies and hydrogen, arriving in Long Beach, CA on April 22, 2021, the 65th stop of its round-the-world Odyssey.

Aerial view of the Energy Observer, the first vessel powered by renewable energies and hydrogen, arriving in Long Beach, CA on April 22, 2021, the 65th stop of its round-the-world Odyssey.

Honorable Mention: Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG

Joanna Cloonan, center, the mother of Aiden Leos, who was killed in a recent road rage shooting, gets a hug from Carla Lacy, left, with daughter Alexis Cloonan, at a press conference with a picture of Aiden in the background. Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner and OC Parks Zoo Staff announce that they will be dedicating the large mammal exhibit, currently under construction, with a plaque in Aiden’s honor on Monday, June 14, 2021.

Joanna Cloonan, center, the mother of Aiden Leos, who was killed in a recent road rage shooting, gets a hug from Carla Lacy, left, with daughter Alexis Cloonan, at a press conference with a picture of Aiden in the background. Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner and OC Parks Zoo Staff announce that they will be dedicating the large mammal exhibit, currently under construction, with a plaque in Aiden’s honor on Monday, June 14, 2021.

 
 

Feature

First Place: Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG

Paddle bikers have some cool fun at Irvine Regional Park in Orange on Monday, June 14, 2021 as the mercury rises during a heat spell.

Paddle bikers have some cool fun at Irvine Regional Park in Orange on Monday, June 14, 2021 as the mercury rises during a heat spell.

Second Place: Jay L. Clendenin, LA Times

Venice Beach, CA - May 20: Alexander Chino, visiting from Chicago, fished with his cousin Aaron Ortega (not shown), who lives in Sun Valley, as waves crashed against the Venice Breakwater in Venice Beach, CA, Thursday, May 20, 2021. Chino had caught a dozen sardines while fishing at the end of the day.

Venice Beach, CA - May 20: Alexander Chino, visiting from Chicago, fished with his cousin Aaron Ortega (not shown), who lives in Sun Valley, as waves crashed against the Venice Breakwater in Venice Beach, CA, Thursday, May 20, 2021. Chino had caught a dozen sardines while fishing at the end of the day.

Third Place: Will Lester, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

Mission Elementary kindergarten teacher Erin Pagel shows her excitement as she greets new students on the first day of in class instruction in Loma Linda Monday Apr. 5, 2021. Monday was the first day of in class instruction at the school since March 13, 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mission Elementary kindergarten teacher Erin Pagel shows her excitement as she greets new students on the first day of in class instruction in Loma Linda Monday Apr. 5, 2021. Monday was the first day of in class instruction at the school since March 13, 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Honorable Mention: Brandon Richardson, Long Beach Post

A child watches penguins at the Aquarium of the Pacific, Thursday, June 17, 2021. The aquarium faced severe budgetary challenges amid the pandemic but is doing well since reopening.

A child watches penguins at the Aquarium of the Pacific, Thursday, June 17, 2021. The aquarium faced severe budgetary challenges amid the pandemic but is doing well since reopening.

Honorable Mention: Gina Ferazzi, LA Times

A young boy run with out-streched arms toward the surf of Manhattan Beach, CA, June 19, 2021.

A young boy run with out-streched arms toward the surf of Manhattan Beach, CA, June 19, 2021.

Honorable Mention: Genaro Molina, LA Times

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 30, 2021 - - Terri Taylor turns and raises her hands to her friend chef David Thomas while speaking at his memorial service inside the Holsinger Chapel at the Los Angeles Mission on April 30, 2021. Thomas, 61, who came up from the streets of Skid Row, eventually lead the kitchen as Food Service Director at the Los Angeles Mission over the past 20 years. He passed away earlier this month. “The Mission has lost an indefatigable spirit, a fun-loving and caring soul, and the world has lost an amazing human being,” said Troy Vaughn, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Mission. Chef Michael Voltaggio, who spoke at the memorial, calculated that Chef Thomas was responsible for about 12 million meals for guests at the LA Mission. “The humility that matched his size,” said Michaela Pereira about her friend’s formidable size. “When you walked into that kitchen you were family,” she said. Only about 70 people were allowed to attend to maintain safety measures regarding COVID-19.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 30, 2021 - - Terri Taylor turns and raises her hands to her friend chef David Thomas while speaking at his memorial service inside the Holsinger Chapel at the Los Angeles Mission on April 30, 2021. Thomas, 61, who came up from the streets of Skid Row, eventually lead the kitchen as Food Service Director at the Los Angeles Mission over the past 20 years. He passed away earlier this month. “The Mission has lost an indefatigable spirit, a fun-loving and caring soul, and the world has lost an amazing human being,” said Troy Vaughn, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Mission. Chef Michael Voltaggio, who spoke at the memorial, calculated that Chef Thomas was responsible for about 12 million meals for guests at the LA Mission. “The humility that matched his size,” said Michaela Pereira about her friend’s formidable size. “When you walked into that kitchen you were family,” she said. Only about 70 people were allowed to attend to maintain safety measures regarding COVID-19.

Portrait

First Place: Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

Musician Danny Elfman poses in his studio Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Musician Danny Elfman poses in his studio Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Second Place: Jay L. Clendenin, LA Times

San Clemente, CA - July 01: Professional surfer, and now Olympian, Caroline Marks,19, is photographed at T-Street Beach, in San Clemente, CA, Thursday, July 1, 2021. Marks is a member of the USA Surfing Olympic team and will be competing in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, as the sport makes its debut. Marks was the youngest surfer, male or female, to qualify for the World Surf League Championship Tour, at 15.

San Clemente, CA - July 01: Professional surfer, and now Olympian, Caroline Marks,19, is photographed at T-Street Beach, in San Clemente, CA, Thursday, July 1, 2021. Marks is a member of the USA Surfing Olympic team and will be competing in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, as the sport makes its debut. Marks was the youngest surfer, male or female, to qualify for the World Surf League Championship Tour, at 15.

Honorable Mention: Jay L. Clendenin, LA Times

Third Place: Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

Musician Danny Elfman poses in his studio Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Musician Danny Elfman poses in his studio Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Honorable Mention: Thomas R Cordova, Long Beach Post

Nathan Tourtellotte of Rose Park Coffee Roaster stands in the company’s newest coffee shop in Long Beach Friday, June 11, 2021. Rose Park Roasters celebrated its soft opening at their new location in Downtown’s East Village, marking the coffee retailer and roastery’s third brick-and-mortar and second location in Downtown Long Beach.

Nathan Tourtellotte of Rose Park Coffee Roaster stands in the company’s newest coffee shop in Long Beach Friday, June 11, 2021. Rose Park Roasters celebrated its soft opening at their new location in Downtown’s East Village, marking the coffee retailer and roastery’s third brick-and-mortar and second location in Downtown Long Beach.

San Clemente, CA - May 04: Nyjah Huston, the top-ranked skateboarder in the world, is seen in a tintype photograph, made outside his skate park in San Clemente, CA, Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Huston will be representing the United States as a member of the Skateboarding team, as it debuts at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games.

San Clemente, CA - May 04: Nyjah Huston, the top-ranked skateboarder in the world, is seen in a tintype photograph, made outside his skate park in San Clemente, CA, Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Huston will be representing the United States as a member of the Skateboarding team, as it debuts at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Honorable Mention: Jay L. Clendenin, LA Times

Hermosa Beach, CA - June 10: Wearing the jersey of and surrounded by memorabilia of Dodger pitcher Clayton Kershaw, Austin Donley, whose family has Dodgers season tickets, holds the damaged carboard cutout he contributed to the Dodger Stadium outfield, in his Hermosa Beach, CA, bedroom, Thursday, June 10, 2021. Life-long baseball fan Donley was “lucky” to have the cutout, with his likeness, dinged twice, by hits from the Dodgers’ Will Smith and Mookie Betts. After the media and Twitter attention, Donley received a signed bat from Smith, with the line, “Sorry I hit you in the face, Go Dodgers, Will Smith.”

Hermosa Beach, CA - June 10: Wearing the jersey of and surrounded by memorabilia of Dodger pitcher Clayton Kershaw, Austin Donley, whose family has Dodgers season tickets, holds the damaged carboard cutout he contributed to the Dodger Stadium outfield, in his Hermosa Beach, CA, bedroom, Thursday, June 10, 2021. Life-long baseball fan Donley was “lucky” to have the cutout, with his likeness, dinged twice, by hits from the Dodgers’ Will Smith and Mookie Betts. After the media and Twitter attention, Donley received a signed bat from Smith, with the line, “Sorry I hit you in the face, Go Dodgers, Will Smith.”

Pictorial

A graphic image that expresses beauty, tension and other abstract concepts through composition and tonal and color relationships more than through human interaction.

First Place: Ringo Chiu, Associated Press

A parasail flies high above the Port of Long Beach as the storm clouds in the background, Thursday, April 22, 2021, in Long Beach, California.

A parasail flies high above the Port of Long Beach as the storm clouds in the background, Thursday, April 22, 2021, in Long Beach, California.

Second Place: Patrick Fallon, Agence France-Presse

In an aerial image, empty boat slips sit on a dry lake bed at Folsom Lake Marina as the lake experiences lower water levels during the California drought emergency on May 27, 2021 in El Dorado Hills, California.

In an aerial image, empty boat slips sit on a dry lake bed at Folsom Lake Marina as the lake experiences lower water levels during the California drought emergency on May 27, 2021 in El Dorado Hills, California.

Third Place: Don Bartletti, Freelance

JUNE 21, 2021. VISTA, CA. With its extended legs encrusted with yellow pollen, a honey bee heads for a landing on a chocolate/cherry colored sunflower.

JUNE 21, 2021. VISTA, CA. With its extended legs encrusted with yellow pollen, a honey bee heads for a landing on a chocolate/cherry colored sunflower.

Honorable Mention: Apu Gomes, Freelance

Beach yoga class on an overcast evening at Venice beach during the heat wave in Los Angeles, California on June 16, 2021

Beach yoga class on an overcast evening at Venice beach during the heat wave in Los Angeles, California on June 16, 2021

Honorable Mention: Aude Guerrucci, Freelance

US National Artistic Swimming team trains at the SODA Aquatic center in Moraga, California, U.S., May 5, 2021. The team was unable to swim for three months last year during the California stay-at-home order, and for a few weeks during the California wildfire last August and September.

US National Artistic Swimming team trains at the SODA Aquatic center in Moraga, California, U.S., May 5, 2021. The team was unable to swim for three months last year during the California stay-at-home order, and for a few weeks during the California wildfire last August and September.

Honorable Mention: Patrick Fallon, Agence France-Presse

A full moon is seen framed with a US flag during totality of a total lunar eclipse as the moon enters Earth's shadow for a Super Blood Moon on May 26, 2021 in Chico, California.

A full moon is seen framed with a US flag during totality of a total lunar eclipse as the moon enters Earth's shadow for a Super Blood Moon on May 26, 2021 in Chico, California.

Honorable Mention: THOMAS R CORDOVA, LONG BEACH POST

A glass dining table top reflects the back of the dining chairs in a 1930 home in Long Beach, Monday March 29, 2021.

A glass dining table top reflects the back of the dining chairs in a 1930 home in Long Beach, Monday March 29, 2021.

 
 

Spot News

First Place: Thomas R Cordova, Long Beach Post

A suspect exits his boat after police tear-gassed him after an hours-long standoff in Long Beach Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Long Beach police officers responded to a battery call, which they later determined to be felony spousal abuse, said LBPD spokesperson Allison Gallagher. Police attempted to negotiate with the man, but he refused to comply with the officers’ commands to surrender, Gallagher said. The SWAT team was activated, and officers employed “moderate force options” to detain the man, who was not identified, police said. Witnesses said police used tear gas and a less-lethal round to arrest the man.

A suspect exits his boat after police tear-gassed him after an hours-long standoff in Long Beach Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Long Beach police officers responded to a battery call, which they later determined to be felony spousal abuse, said LBPD spokesperson Allison Gallagher. Police attempted to negotiate with the man, but he refused to comply with the officers’ commands to surrender, Gallagher said. The SWAT team was activated, and officers employed “moderate force options” to detain the man, who was not identified, police said. Witnesses said police used tear gas and a less-lethal round to arrest the man.

Second Place: Brandon Richardson, Long Beach Post

Sheriff’s deputies use a pepper spray canister to force a driver out of his vehicle after an hour-long standoff in front of the Lakewood station, Saturday, June 12, 2021.

Sheriff’s deputies use a pepper spray canister to force a driver out of his vehicle after an hour-long standoff in front of the Lakewood station, Saturday, June 12, 2021.

Third Place: Ringo Chiu, Reuters

A protester is detained by police officers during a Black Lives Matter protest in Huntington Beach, California, U.S. April 11, 2021.

A protester is detained by police officers during a Black Lives Matter protest in Huntington Beach, California, U.S. April 11, 2021.

Honorable Mention: Genaro Molina, LA Times

VENICE, CA - APRIL 21, 2021 - - Pediatrician Courtney Gillenwater, facing, receives a hug of support from Brian Averill, with Venice Boardwalk Action Committee, in front of her fire damaged home at 31 E. Clubhouse Avenue in Venice on April 21, 2021. The fire is under investigation but residents in the neighborhood believe it may have been set by new homeless in the area. Gillenwater’s dog Togo died in the fire. Gillenwater is familiar with the homeless in the area and has been able to get along even bringing them water and food from time to time. But there were new homeless in the area that were not as receptive. The fire started around 3 a.m. Wednesday according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Arson investigators were on the scene trying to determine the cause of the fire. Residents and neighbors have been having problems with some of the homeless in the area.

VENICE, CA - APRIL 21, 2021 - - Pediatrician Courtney Gillenwater, facing, receives a hug of support from Brian Averill, with Venice Boardwalk Action Committee, in front of her fire damaged home at 31 E. Clubhouse Avenue in Venice on April 21, 2021. The fire is under investigation but residents in the neighborhood believe it may have been set by new homeless in the area. Gillenwater’s dog Togo died in the fire. Gillenwater is familiar with the homeless in the area and has been able to get along even bringing them water and food from time to time. But there were new homeless in the area that were not as receptive. The fire started around 3 a.m. Wednesday according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Arson investigators were on the scene trying to determine the cause of the fire. Residents and neighbors have been having problems with some of the homeless in the area.

Honorable Mention: Ringo Chiu, Freelance

A woman talks on her phone next to her tent as firefighters work on a scene after a fire in downtown Los Angeles, Wednesday, June 9, 2021. A fire in a homeless encampment in downtown Los Angeles Tuesday night spread to a nearby commercial building before being extinguished by firefighters.

A woman talks on her phone next to her tent as firefighters work on a scene after a fire in downtown Los Angeles, Wednesday, June 9, 2021. A fire in a homeless encampment in downtown Los Angeles Tuesday night spread to a nearby commercial building before being extinguished by firefighters.

 
 

Entertainment

First Place: Ringo Chiu, Freelance

Noah Cyrus is prepped by a COVID-19-safe stylist for her moment on the red carpet at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.

Second Place: Patrick T. Fallon, Agence France-Presse

In this long exposure image, fiber-optic lights glow at the Field of Light immersive art installation from artist Bruce Munro, part of the Light at Sensorio on April 13, 2021 in Paso Robles, California. The Light Towers feature 69 towers composed of more than 17,000 wine bottles adjacent to a 15 acre Field of Light at Sensorio which has a solar powered array of over 58,800 stemmed spheres lit by fiber-optics.

In this long exposure image, fiber-optic lights glow at the Field of Light immersive art installation from artist Bruce Munro, part of the Light at Sensorio on April 13, 2021 in Paso Robles, California. The Light Towers feature 69 towers composed of more than 17,000 wine bottles adjacent to a 15 acre Field of Light at Sensorio which has a solar powered array of over 58,800 stemmed spheres lit by fiber-optics.

Third Place: Will Lester, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

Country music fan Kelli Schramm, from Redondo Beach reaches towards Dylan Scott as he performs during Boots in the Park at Silverlakes in Norco on Saturday, June 19, 2021. Approximately 14,000 country music fans attended the first major outdoor music festival in Southern California since the state reopening on June 15. Chris Young headlined the show.

Country music fan Kelli Schramm, from Redondo Beach reaches towards Dylan Scott as he performs during Boots in the Park at Silverlakes in Norco on Saturday, June 19, 2021. Approximately 14,000 country music fans attended the first major outdoor music festival in Southern California since the state reopening on June 15. Chris Young headlined the show.

Honorable Mention: Don Bartletti, Freelance

JUNE 5, 2021. LONE PINE, CA. For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic stopped the annual event, The Concert in the Rocks takes place in the Alabama Hills in Lone Pine, CA. It was a sold-out fund-raiser for the local Museum of Western Film History. In the “Hills” and here in Lone Ranger Canyon hundreds of western movies were made in the past decades, but on this bucolic evening not a single masked man, woman or child could be found.

Sports Features

First Place: Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

Chicago Cubs shortstop Javier Baez, left, helps Los Angeles Dodgers' Justin Turner adjust his glasses after Turner dove into second for a double during the fourth inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 27, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Chicago Cubs shortstop Javier Baez, left, helps Los Angeles Dodgers' Justin Turner adjust his glasses after Turner dove into second for a double during the fourth inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 27, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Second Place: Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News

Sha’Carri Richardson of the USA wins the 100 Meter Dash with a time of 10.77 during the 2021 USATF Golden Games and Distance Open at MT. SAC in Walnut on Sunday, May 9, 2021.

Sha’Carri Richardson of the USA wins the 100 Meter Dash with a time of 10.77 during the 2021 USATF Golden Games and Distance Open at MT. SAC in Walnut on Sunday, May 9, 2021.

Honorable Mention: Aude Guerrucci, Freelance

Third Place: Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts hangs on the wall as fans cheer after making a catch on a ball hit by Arizona Diamondbacks' Tim Locastro during the seventh inning of a baseball game Monday, May 17, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts hangs on the wall as fans cheer after making a catch on a ball hit by Arizona Diamondbacks' Tim Locastro during the seventh inning of a baseball game Monday, May 17, 2021, in Los Angeles.

US National Artistic Swimming team practices stretching at the Luna Gymnastics center with their coach, Anna Voloshyna and her baby Nicole, in Moraga, California, U.S., May 4, 2021. The team was unable to swim for three months last year during the California stay-at-home order, and for a few weeks during the California wildfire last August and September.

US National Artistic Swimming team practices stretching at the Luna Gymnastics center with their coach, Anna Voloshyna and her baby Nicole, in Moraga, California, U.S., May 4, 2021. The team was unable to swim for three months last year during the California stay-at-home order, and for a few weeks during the California wildfire last August and September.

Honorable Mention: Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News

Los Angeles Rams fan wearing a Aaron Donald #99 jersey sits next to his photo cutout during Los Angeles Rams mini camp at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Thursday, June 10, 2021.

Los Angeles Rams fan wearing a Aaron Donald #99 jersey sits next to his photo cutout during Los Angeles Rams mini camp at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Thursday, June 10, 2021.

Honorable Mention: Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw yells at first base umpire Jeremy Riggs after being called for a balk during the third inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs Sunday, June 27, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw yells at first base umpire Jeremy Riggs after being called for a balk during the third inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs Sunday, June 27, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Honorable Mention: Gina Ferazzi, LA Times

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14, 2021: Covered in cheese, a fan holds Justin Turner’s home run ball after it the ball landed in his nachos at the centerfield wall in the 3rd inning at Dodger Stadium on April 14, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14, 2021: Covered in cheese, a fan holds Justin Turner’s home run ball after it the ball landed in his nachos at the centerfield wall in the 3rd inning at Dodger Stadium on April 14, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.

Honorable Mention: Will Lester, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

Top Fuel driver Steve Torrence holds on to crew member Cale Hood as he wipes water off the bottom of Torrence’s driving shoes prior to the opening round of qualifying Saturday May 22, 2021 at the NHRA Springnationals at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas.

Top Fuel driver Steve Torrence holds on to crew member Cale Hood as he wipes water off the bottom of Torrence’s driving shoes prior to the opening round of qualifying Saturday May 22, 2021 at the NHRA Springnationals at Houston Raceway Park in Baytown, Texas.

Sports Action

First Place: Mindy Schauer, Orange County Register/SCNG

Jay Devilliers competes in the Pro Pickleball Association Orange County Cup in San Clemente on Sunday, June 27, 2021.

Jay Devilliers competes in the Pro Pickleball Association Orange County Cup in San Clemente on Sunday, June 27, 2021.

Second Place: Patrick Fallon, Agence France-Presse

Female United States Marine Corps (USMC) recruits from Lima Company, the first gender integrated training class in San Diego, spar with boxing gloves during The Crucible, the final part of phase three of recruit training before officially becoming US Marines on April 21, 2021 at Camp Pendleton in San Diego County, California. - Lima Company is the first gender integrated company with a female platoon training alongside male platoons at the west coast Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego (MCRDSD). The Crucible is the final 54-hour test for the recruits, where upon completion the recruits will receive their eagle, globe, and anchor pin to officially become US Marines. Recruits had to spend two weeks in quarantine before beginning training due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Congress ordered the Marine Corps to fully integrate women into its west coast training battalions by 2028 under the National Defense Authorization Act. Women make up about 9 percent of the Marine Corps.

Female United States Marine Corps (USMC) recruits from Lima Company, the first gender integrated training class in San Diego, spar with boxing gloves during The Crucible, the final part of phase three of recruit training before officially becoming US Marines on April 21, 2021 at Camp Pendleton in San Diego County, California. - Lima Company is the first gender integrated company with a female platoon training alongside male platoons at the west coast Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego (MCRDSD). The Crucible is the final 54-hour test for the recruits, where upon completion the recruits will receive their eagle, globe, and anchor pin to officially become US Marines. Recruits had to spend two weeks in quarantine before beginning training due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Congress ordered the Marine Corps to fully integrate women into its west coast training battalions by 2028 under the National Defense Authorization Act. Women make up about 9 percent of the Marine Corps.

Third Place: Aude Guerrucci, Freelance

US National Artistic Swimming team trains at the SODA Aquatic center in Moraga, California, U.S., May 4, 2021. The team was unable to swim for three months last year during the California stay-at-home order, and for a few weeks during the California wildfire last August and September.

US National Artistic Swimming team trains at the SODA Aquatic center in Moraga, California, U.S., May 4, 2021. The team was unable to swim for three months last year during the California stay-at-home order, and for a few weeks during the California wildfire last August and September.

Honorable Mention: Katharine Lotze, Getty Images

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 15: Mia Cervantes of UCLA competes in the pole vault final at the PAC-12 Track & Field Championships at the University of California on May 15, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 15: Mia Cervantes of UCLA competes in the pole vault final at the PAC-12 Track & Field Championships at the University of California on May 15, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.

Honorable Mention: Mark J. Terrill, Associated Press

Utah Jazz forward Royce O'Neale, left, and Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George go after a loose ball during the second half in Game 6 of a second-round NBA basketball playoff series Friday, June 18, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Utah Jazz forward Royce O'Neale, left, and Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George go after a loose ball during the second half in Game 6 of a second-round NBA basketball playoff series Friday, June 18, 2021, in Los Angeles.

Honorable Mention: Libby Cline-Birmingham, Freelance

Stephen Tomasin, left, reaches for the ball as Madison Hughes, right, tackles a team Korea player during a Quest for Gold Sevens” international rugby pre-Olympic exhibition match at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson on Saturday, June 26, 2021.

Stephen Tomasin, left, reaches for the ball as Madison Hughes, right, tackles a team Korea player during a Quest for Gold Sevens” international rugby pre-Olympic exhibition match at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson on Saturday, June 26, 2021.

Fire

First Place: Eric Thayer, freelance

Water dropping helicopters battle flames during the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Saturday, May 15, 2021. A fast-growing brush fire near Pacific Palisades exploded to 750 acres Saturday evening, prompting mandatory evacuations for residents in the Topanga area.

Water dropping helicopters battle flames during the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Saturday, May 15, 2021. A fast-growing brush fire near Pacific Palisades exploded to 750 acres Saturday evening, prompting mandatory evacuations for residents in the Topanga area.

Second Place: Ringo Chiu, Associated Press

Residents walk their dog as a brush fire burns behind homes in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles Saturday, May 15, 2021.

Residents walk their dog as a brush fire burns behind homes in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles Saturday, May 15, 2021.

Third Place: Eric Thayer, Freelance

Water dropping helicopters battle flames during the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Saturday, May 15, 2021. A fast-growing brush fire near Pacific Palisades exploded to 750 acres Saturday evening, prompting mandatory evacuations for residents in the Topanga area.

Water dropping helicopters battle flames during the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Saturday, May 15, 2021. A fast-growing brush fire near Pacific Palisades exploded to 750 acres Saturday evening, prompting mandatory evacuations for residents in the Topanga area.

Honorable Mention: Ringo Chiu, Associated Press

A bird flies over as a firefighting helicopter drops water as smoke rises from a brush fire scorching at least 100 acres in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles Saturday, May 15, 2021.

A bird flies over as a firefighting helicopter drops water as smoke rises from a brush fire scorching at least 100 acres in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles Saturday, May 15, 2021.

Honorable Mention: patrick fallon, agence france-presse

A firefighter looks at the flames from the Palisades fire cresting the hills in the distance in Topanga State Park, North West of Los Angeles on May 15, 2021. - A brush fire near Pacific Palisades started Friday and grew to 750 acres Saturday night, triggering a mandatory evacuation of residents in the Topanga area.

A firefighter looks at the flames from the Palisades fire cresting the hills in the distance in Topanga State Park, North West of Los Angeles on May 15, 2021. - A brush fire near Pacific Palisades started Friday and grew to 750 acres Saturday night, triggering a mandatory evacuation of residents in the Topanga area.

 
 

Judge’s Notes & Bio

GENERAL NEWS

Photographers are doing such important, compelling work along the border and this category was full of poignant images that readers and politicians need to see. Keep up the important and difficult work.

First place - There were so many strong images along the border, but this one stood out. This puts a human face on the border issue like few others did. I keep looking at how the light is falling on the face of the child surrounded by the dark colors of the adults which really makes this photo.

Second place - Peak moment -- could have been spot news, as well.

Third place - A reader can feel this photo by looking at the two men's reactions after crossing the border. Another compelling border image.

Honorable mentions

Good job of seeing on the part of the photographer. It's easy to see the squalor, etc., but it's important to find those storytelling moments of humanity.

Another compelling photo from the border.

Just a cool, fun photo from a covid-related event.

So many graduations to cover, but this is a very poignant photo that really grabs a reader.

I like the juxtaposition of the futuristic boat with the speed boat going by.

This is a nice moment at an everyday event.

FEATURE

Overall, not as strong a category as many of the others, but still, the winners were some very nice photos.

First place is a fun photo any photographer would be glad to find on a hot summer day when sent out to look for features. 

Second place has nice light. I like how the photographer waited for the waves to be just right.

Third place - An assignment done every year, but this time, with the added impact of the pandemic. This is a great moment the photographer saw.

Honorable mentions

A joyful moment composed well.

I have seen this kind of photo many times before, but this is executed very well. The light hits the little girl's face just right for a really nice moment. The added context in the cutline about the pandemic's impact on the aquarium makes the photo even better.

This is a poignant moment at a funeral. Most funeral photos show mourners' faces; the body language shot from behind the speaker makes this photo.

PORTRAIT

A really strong category with a wide range of cool portraits. There were some that were excellent but had just a tiny imperfection that kept them off the winners list. When you look at a portrait, you want to know something more about a person. Because the photographer controls all the elements, the photo needs to work on all levels.

First place - Compelling light, perfect angle, cool personality of the subject. All add up to a portrait that gives a great sense of the subject.

Second place - I've seen these a lot before but this one is soooo well-executed with light. The water splashing around her as the wave breaks behind her really elevates the photo and shows that the photographer pays attention to all details. I especially like how the water is parted in front of her...very cool.

Third place - This photographer hit paydirt with two excellent portraits from the same shoot. Two different shooting styles, but both outstanding work.

Honorable mentions

Simple portrait, but executed on a very high level with dramatic lighting.

Another simple portrait, creatively executed.

This photo could have been a nightmare with a cluttered room, but the photographer did a great job getting the subject to play along and be part of the chaos. A fun portrait.

PICTORIAL

This category was so difficult to pick the winners because there were so many beautiful images. Memorable pictorial images, for me, are ones in which a photographer sees something extraordinary out of an ordinary situation that someone else might pass right by. Those visual surprises add up to something special. All of these have those qualities.

First place - A beautiful monochromatic photo with a pop of color from the parachutist. I do wish the photographer had straightened the horizon.

Second place - A great job of seeing by the photographer. This is a strong general news photo that is compelling because of its pictorial qualities.

Third place - All the stars -- um, bees -- aligned here. Might not have been as strong with a traditional yellow sunflower, but this one is lovely.

Honorable mentions (and there could have been even more)

Been done before, but this one is so darn good. Everything comes together successfully.

A pretty, graphic photo.

Wow...I keep looking at this picture.

A more traditional look at artistic swimming than the photo that won in sports action, but done on a very successful level. The lane lines and the one swimmer off to the side really take this to the next level.

SPOT NEWS

Not a big category, but some nice images.

First place - The photo stood out among all the spot news images for its subtle moment and layering. There are no flames or guns pointed, but you know what it is by looking at his face.

Second place - Peak moment in a clean image.

Third place - Compositionally very strong. Very well-done arrest photo.

Honorable mentions

A nice moment composed well after a fire.

Strong reaction after another fire.

ENTERTAINMENT

Overall, a bit of a weaker category in large part due to the pandemic and lack of events, but I like that the winners took a look away from the performers to see how people reacted to them, and found nice moments.

First place - What a sweet moment enhanced by shooting from the right angle.

Second place - This is a beautiful photo that shows the photographer was thinking about how best to capture the lights.

Third place - Well-done fan photo.

Honorable mention

Well-executed overall that not only gives a sense of place but is a beautiful concert photo.

SPORTS FEATURE

Another strong category with nice moments beyond the traditional. Good job by the photographers.

First place - I love this photo. The photographer saw this take place after the play was finished and captured a nice moment away from the action. When you're covering dozens of games of many sports, it speaks volumes when a photographer captures a different, storytelling image. Bravo!

Second place - There have been a lot of photos of Sha'Carri Richardson of late, but this one is so well-executed...peak reaction and peak flowing hair!

Third place - I love how Mookie Betts is teetering on the wall, almost toppling into all those cups and other things on the bench.

Honorable mentions

Good job of seeing away from the practice by the photographer. The baby with one of its legs up mimicking the athletes was the frosting on the cake.

Nice moment away from the action. We've seen millions of these photos when few fans were allowed into games, but this one is among the best. Love the pure joy on the fan's face.

Nice moment after the action of Clayton Kershaw,

You can't look at this photo without smiling. Good job by the photographer to capture the moment after the fan's catch. Fans looking at the photo are saying to themselves, "I would do the same thing to catch a Justin Turner home run."

A good job of seeing this moment by the photographer. Instead of just capturing a race or the preparation or the reaction, the photographer saw this out-of-the-ordinary moment. 

SPORTS ACTION

It was good to see a good range of sports (beyond the usual baseball, etc.) covered with some really nice images.

First place - That face! The combination of that facial reaction, the ball in the perfect spot and the clean background make this the perfect combo. We've seen it a bunch of times, but not with everything lining up so well.

Second place - Well-composed image with nice light, shot from the right angle. The photographer chose a more overall approach to the photo -- instead of simple tight action -- and it paid off.

Third place - Usually this sport is photographed from above or straight on. This photographer was creative and captured an image I've not seen before. Good work!

Honorable mentions

Gorgeous light, nice reaction and clean background make for a strong version of a photo we have seen often
I'm a sucker for tight sports action. This one is done right. Composed and cropped well.

Because the players are often in a big pile, it's hard to get a good, different photo. This one is a jumble, as well, but each piece of the photo contributes something to the overall -- good faces, good action and a clean look at the ball.

FIRE

Lots of strong images. I know California photographers cover a lot of fires, but I still marvel at your bravery and execution under extremely difficult conditions.Stay safe!

First place - Nicely composed, beautiful light and every bit of the photo contributes to its overall impact. You really feel this photo.

Second place - I like how the photographer saw a bit of humanity during a huge fire.

Third place - A dramatic photo using light and composition as the foundation of the image. Another one of those "we see these photos a lot," but this one is so dramatic.

Honorable mentions

A well-executed fire drop photo.

I like the layers of color and how the image brings the reader there with the firefighter,

Meet our judge, Marcia Prouse

 
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Marcia Prouse started her professional career as a photo editor and deputy director of photography at the Detroit Free Press. She was part of the picture editing team that edited two Pulitzer Prize-winning entries for Feature Photography, in addition to three finalists. That team was also honored with the Angus McDougall Award in picture editing in POY. Marcia returned to California to the Orange County Register as a photo editor, Director of Photography, Sunday Editor, Page One editor, and finally, Assistant Managing Editor/Page One and Photography. In 2014, she moved to the Tennessean in Nashville, eventually becoming Visuals and Storytelling Coach.

Marcia got hooked on photojournalism when she was required to take a photo class for her journalism education major at Arizona State University. After brief stints, mostly as a photographer, at the now-defunct Simi Valley Enterprise and Camarillo Daily News, she completed the master's program at the University of Missouri School of Journalism, where she produced the book, "Arrow Rock: 20th Century Frontier Town."

Since retiring from the Tennessean earlier this year, she has been freelance editing, coaching photographers and teaching. She just returned from Alaska, the 50th state she has visited.