March 2024 Juror Comments

David DeMelim - Juror

It was my pleasure to have the opportunity to act as juror for this showcase of photography from the members of the Newport Photo Guild. The challenge in an exhibition like this, where all the work is of such high caliber, is how to define, and then select the images that stand out, the images that have that something extra. I look for those photographs that have the ability to be more than just a picture of something and be a picture that moves the viewer... moves them in space, in time, or moves them emotionally. I look as much for the images that ask questions as for the ones that tell a story. It is the often the questions that keep the viewer engaged and keep them coming back for more.—David DeMelim

Panes by Marc Jaffe

First Place

A striking black and white image that grabs your attention from across the room and holds it no matter how close you get. The strong graphic composition, with nothing extra underscores the simplicity of this image and yet deeper meanings can be found for those who decide to look more deeply. The empty space and the strong diagonal line bisecting the grid all serve to make the lone profile all the more important. This is one of those classic images that leaves the viewer with more questions than answers. It begs you to linger longer, and to come back often.

Her America by Bonnie Jaffe

Second Place

Certainly a picture of our time, that speaks to the power of photography to transform an ordinary moment in time into a statement or commentary on our place in history. The off balance composition, with the figure almost out of frame engaging not with the flag, or the viewer, but with some event unfolding off stage, or perhaps looking to a future yet to come...what the photographer chose to have out of frame is as important as what was included.

Falling Water by Frank Leith

Third Place

Strong composition, effective use of black and white, and the use of a slow shutter speed all come together in this intriguing image. The combination of these choices by the photographer result in a compelling image that is immediately relatable and subtly curious, as it presents a rendering beyond human vision. The ability of a photograph to transport the viewer to a different place, a different time or to recall a memory are evident here, and work to make this one of those photographs you can live with easily and always have a different reaction to it each time.

  • Honorable Mention: Trapped by David Pinkham

    Soft and moody this image evokes both a sense of loss, and of potential yet to be realized. It is one of those unique images that has the ability to transport the viewer to a different place every time depending on the their current state of mind and personal history. Here both the composition and the illustration like quality of the image work well together to create a pensive mood that draws the viewer in. The location of the central figure, low and to the right, puts an added emphasis on the space above and behind the figure alluding to the weight of the past (behind the figure) and the weight of the world (above the figure), while the vines in the foreground standing for the bars of a cage. While the title, Trapped, provides an entry point into the picture, it is only one of many ways to approach this engaging image.

  • Honorable Mention: Manchester Street Station by Vicky McGrath

    For the bravery to try something new while having the restraint to not let the technique overpower the image. The image is both subtle and strong, presenting a unique perspective on this often photographed landmark.