Me Ra Koh Photography Blog » You Vote!! It’s the “New Beginnings” Photo Contest Finalists!

Photo Contests!07 Jan 2008 06:22 am

You Vote!! It’s the “New Beginnings” Photo Contest Finalists!

This was a wonderful contest theme! I can’t tell you how many fantastic and inspiring photos we received. Every image was touching, especially the stories you wrote with your images. I really needed the help of others on narrowing it down to five, but I think you’re going to be inspired with what we’ve got!

Vote for one of these five finalists by leaving your vote in the comments!

Finalist #1: Big Brother Shay and Baby Sister Tess, by Kelly (proud mom). Kelly wrote that she had butterflies in her stomach the first few times she watched her two children connect. Witnessing those moments of new beginnings between siblings is breath taking. Wonderful photo Kelly!

Finalist #2: First Day of School, by Stacie (another proud mom). The anxiety that goes into a first day is familiar to so many of us, and I love the way Stacie captured her girls. The composition on this shot is really eye catching.

Finalist #3: Portrait of Me, by Michelle. This was one of the sweetest emails/entries. “2008 is going to be the year that I try and find out who I am other than “mom” and what excites me. With a 5 month old, 3 year old and 5 year old..it is not going to be easy, but I need to do it. Armed with my new camera and attending your photography workshop, I am ready to learn more about something I love..photography…Other things that the photograph shows is the never ending pile of laundry that is the bain of my existence. This year, I am just going to let it go and not worry about the house always being perfect..the laundry will be there tomorrow (and the next day) but my kids won’t always be little.” Michelle also has a great blog called “A Mom’s Life“.

Finalist #4: A Piano for Christmas, by Judy (a proud and patient mom :)). Judie wrote that friends of the family decided it was time for their home to have some music. So on Christmas day a new beginning took place and the house has never been so full of music.

Finalist #5: New Nephew at 1 week, by Judith (proud auntie!). Judith wrote that this little one not only brings a beautiful new life, but Judith also has a whole new level of closeness with her sister as sisters, mothers and women.

There you have it! The five wonderful finalists for the New Beginnings, January Photo Contest! Submit your vote in the comments for the winner (with a few words on why you chose their photo) and you may possibly win the random voter award!!

Prizes?!!! Three ways to win!! (why do I feel like a game show host as I type this? :))

The winning Finalist will get $100 credit to one of our 2008 workshops!

AND a Random Voter will receive $100 credit for a 2008 workshop too!

AND, AND…there is a third way to win something!!

I just got my new 2008 calendar in the mail. I”m so excited!!! It’s my favorite calendar by Nikki McClure (beautiful papercuts with inspiring images and words).

We’re going to pick a SECOND random voter for this contest and send you your own copy of this awesome 2008 calendar!

You’ve got until this Wednesday night at 8pm ET time to vote!! Tell your friends and family to vote for you b/c we even still have a spot for you in this weekend’s Seattle Workshop!!

276 Responses to “You Vote!! It’s the “New Beginnings” Photo Contest Finalists!”

on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:49 am Amanda D

I vote for #1- Love the emotion between the two! It appears that the baby already is fascinated and looking adoringly at his big brother.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:06 am amber joy

I vote #3. I had two possibles, but this one just hits closer to home. I live in a very weird situation where my ‘me’ can get lost often, and I want to know ‘me’. This photo could have been me : p even down to the pile of laundry!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:49 am Nicole Neff

My vote is #3. Her candidness is so refreshing. And I love it that she chose to put the laundry in the background of her picture. So often we women get overwhelmed by taking care of “stuff” that we forget take care of ourselves. When we allow some time for ourselves, it feeds into other areas of our lives to bring others happiness as well. It’s a win-win for everyone. Good luck with your endeavor, Michelle!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:49 am Jess

I vote for number 4. All of the pictures were beautiful, but this one stood out because of the bright, strong contrast of colors, the level at which is was taken, and how adorable those fat little fingers are pressing down four piano keys at once! Hurrah for music!

Thanks, MeRa, for these contests!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:04 am Michelle

My vote is for #5. It is actually quite hard to get an infant all snuggle in tight like that (not to mention balancing on a tower of towels!). Nice job.

I’ve got a sister who was due with her first baby last Saturday so I am waiting to share the joy of motherhood with her too!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:17 am Leah

I seem to like number 2 the best, probably because the first day of school was a big deal for me and my little guys too, every year
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:22 am Kelly R

I vote for #1. I love the colors and angle of the photo. Very touching.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:39 am jon ezelle

I vote for #5. I liked its softness and quietness. I felt the awe of a new-born baby in this photo. Thank you.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:43 am erin

My vote is for #3
What a brave woman!!!
Very inspiring!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:44 am Kelly R

I loved the eye contact between baby and brother. How beautiful a moment. Glad to have shared it. Great picture!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:44 am Kellie

#1 gets my vote. She captured such a sweet moment between a big brother and his little sister. What a beautiful photo!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:51 am Caron

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

You go, Girl! Your priorities are in check….your babies wont be babies forever. Pick up that camera and get shooting! Another great photographer is about to bloom. Your photo and explaination are a great inspiration.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:53 am Kelly Han

#5 is so beatiful! I just loved how that sweet baby is placed so gently on the towels and still sleeping peacefully.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:53 am Betsy

#5 gets my vote.

I love the idea of the women in the family getting closer.

: )

Bets
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:55 am Allison

I vote for #1. I love the emotion she captured in the photo.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:55 am Sandy

#1 has to be the winner! It is such a beautiful photo. You look at it and can feel the instant bond. Thanks for sharing!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:15 am Detra

I love #1 and #4! There will be so much noise in their houses from now on! ;-} My vote goes to #3, the self portrait. I have a whole new plan for myself as well in 2008, and this reminds me of me — without me in the photo of course! Good luck Michelle — and I have SO much laundry at my house!!! LOL
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:17 am Susan L.

My vote is for #1. You can see the love between the siblings in that picture. I love how mom captured them gazing at each other.

Well done!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:20 am Kelly R

I think that #1 says so much. It seems to convey wonderful emotion in addition to be a beautiful subject and almost artistic in its format,
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:21 am Annmarie

I vote for #5. There is nothing more innocent and serene than a sleeping newborn baby. The picture is beatifully done and fills me with a sense of peace and love. There is something so special about a bond between mothers that you just cannot explain.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:25 am Jen

#4 is my vote. The perspective is wonderful (down at their level) and I love that they are playing piano. My favorite by far.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:36 am Terry

i vote for # 1. what a beautiful moment and picture that captured it!!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:37 am Amy B

My vote is for #1. The expression on the baby’s face is priceless.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:48 am Loren

#5. As the world with a new baby can be chaos, this image stops all of that and allows one to fully appreciate the wonder that is a new life. Soft, calm and beautiful.
You can see here how a baby can block out everything else and and bring people together. Great photo!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:54 am Lisa McD

I love #1, totally warms my heart!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:56 am Kamala

#4 is the best!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:59 am Deborah

I vote for #5. I love the sweet expression captured on baby’s face.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:00 am Hillary

I love #5. The way she captured the quiet, calm of a new baby (or those few precious moments that are like that!). The lighting, towels, and way the baby are laying play up the softness of a new baby.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:06 am Martha

#1 gets my vote! Who can resist those rapturous faces?
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:07 am Kamala

Oops! I meant to say #3! Sorry!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:14 am Misty

#1 is so precious…from the eyelashes of the big brother to the sweet fascination of the baby brother. This is just a priceless shot! =)
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:16 am Misty

Oh dear…I obviously am trying to do too much right now. I seriously meant to say baby sister. Honest I did! Yikes! =)
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:18 am Annetta

I vote for #5. This photo captures the sense of awe and wonder at new life.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:20 am Melanie

#1 - so cute and sweet!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:26 am CMG

#5. I scrolled through all the pictures and but stopped at #5 because it was so nicely photographed and who can resist a baby, especially one that is sleeping.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:26 am Rachael

#3!
It sums up a perfect fact — moms are always the one BEHIND the camera!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:27 am kelley

I vot for #5, he looks like the Prince and the Pea I like the soft focus and the black and white for this shot. Precious photo!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:28 am Dominic

My vote is for #5. If only we could all sleep that peacefully on a pile of towels.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:39 am Jenn Lewerenz

VOTE#3

I like the composition and am also aspiring to become a photographer this year. More than a mom. Love it!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:47 am MKB

#5 gets my vote. Imagine being so small you could fall asleep on a stack of soft, clean and oh-so-cozy towels. Mmmm, sounds heavenly!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:48 am Thorn

#5 I’ve never seen such an uncanny likeness to Lynden Johnson. Beautiful baby.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:51 am Lee Matlick

Vote for #5, he looks like he has the temperment for the next great golfer.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:56 am Emily

I vote #1. What a precious moment to be able to capture!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:00 am Liza

I have to vote for Finalist #3! Not only is her story behind the photo ring so close to home but it is also a great picture! I love the red wall and how she incorporated the laundry and blurred it to show that it apart of her life but the camera is in focus and her not the laundry. Great photo!
I really love them all!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:03 am Michelle

What a nice way to start my week and see myself as one of the finalists. I’m not going to vote for myself, so I will pick #1, a beautiful photo of a beautiful moment.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:04 am Lisa

#1, for sure!!!! Those children’s faces and expressions are positively gorgeous!!!!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:16 am geena

Number 1
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:18 am Jeri Sutter

My vote is for finalist #1 (Kelly) for her photograph of Big brother Shay and Baby sister Tess!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:22 am Carol

I vote for #5 -what a cute and cuddly little bundle of joy. The picture captures the baby so well.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:37 am Robin

Oh #3. She speaks for so many of us…I am sure we could all be in that picture.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:44 am Claudia

#4 - Love the picture of the boys and the piano. God bless that mom!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:52 am Anna

#5 #5 #5 #5 #5!!!

What a gorgeous, peaceful picture of the most innocent thing in the world!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:56 am Tijen

I vote for #1. Love this picture Kelly. What a precious moment!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:57 am Michelle

#1

I love how she captured the love in their eyes.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:02 pm Carrie

#1 - What a priceless, gorgeous shot!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:07 pm Pascale

They are all great but my vote unequivocally goes to #3

you go girl!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:33 pm s.patel

#3

enjoy the journey!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:35 pm Rachael

#5- I love how time seems to stand still for a moment, a breath, a new beginning.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:40 pm Johnny

My vote is for #5. What a great expression on his little face!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:41 pm Heather

OMG i love #5, how adorable.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:42 pm Eileen Piccinini

#5 Simply precious!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:42 pm Susanne

My vote is for #5 !
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:42 pm Dinea

They are all so sweet! I love the baby on the towels (my vote) . Sweet! Also the piano is so cute!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:44 pm Cathy

#5 #5 #5 - I love it!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:54 pm Paul Fowler

Number 5 is my vote! Inventive and stylish. It reminds me of the quiet times I used to spend with my sons when they were new born.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:55 pm colette

#3, for sure! Michelle is a great photographer with a fresh perspective in both taking pics and with life. She is my inspiration for many reasons. Keep it up, you hot mama! ;0)
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:55 pm Leah Marab

I vote for # 5!!!! This photo is so precious! The simplicity is so stunning! Way to go Judith!!!!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:57 pm Maggie

My vote goes to #2. I, too, just love the composition as well as the expressions on the faces of the girls. Very candid and unique!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:57 pm Scott Osterhout

#5 Is such a beautiful picture of the beauty of a innocent young child
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:59 pm Patty

#5 gets my vote. The big cozy towels emphasize how small the baby is, and how you want little ones to be surrounded by all soft and light things.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 12:59 pm Erin

I vote for #3
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:03 pm Nicole

I vote for #1…its a great shot and shows great such emotion for a photo!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:05 pm Janet Schaedler

I pick number 5, it looks so professional!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:12 pm Maija

I vote for #5! Beautiful!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:20 pm Amanda Mays

Woohoo lot’s of voting again for this round! I have to admit I was a little surprised by the lack of voting on the last contest.
My vote is for Michelle #3.
Alot of us mom’s that read this site can relate and feel the same way as her. I like the color in her scarf and the angle she’s holding the camera.
I have to admit I’m a little basis though since I know michelle is a avid reader/commenter plus I read her blog hehehe I was just inducted into blog stalkers anonymous!
Way to go Michelle
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:24 pm Linda Frost

#5 - She definitely ‘captured the moment’ - They just don’t stay that little long enough!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:25 pm Kari

#4
Love the kiddos at the piano. It tells a story! Love it!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:32 pm Jasa

#5 - It should be in an Anne Geddes book!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:33 pm Wendy

So tough! There are two I love, but I’m going to have to go with number 3. I’m attending that workshop, too, so I hope to meet Michelle since she sounds so much like myself (mom of 7 month old and 3 year old.)
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:37 pm K

I’m voting for #1 !
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:47 pm Rooters

I vote for #1 because the composition, subject matter, and emotion are awesome. Great shot, Kelly!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:51 pm Jess Niles

Number ONE!
Love the realness of the moment and there’s a definite sense of a “beginning” here. Well done.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 1:53 pm gail

I vote for #1 as it shows so much creativity. What a wonderful moment between baby sister and older brother. Beautiful black and white picture.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:02 pm Kristie Osterhout

I vote for #5 which is adorable and very creative!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:03 pm Kui Osterhout

WOW!!! Awesome photo!! I Love # 5.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:06 pm Marianne

Congrats to you all; these are great photos.

I have two favs 1) Michelle’s- it’s hard to tak way e a self portrait; I love the story you’re telling with your picture…it’s great! 2) #5- this picture is just so elegant! I love the contrast, the intimacy, and the beautiful job you did with setting up this plush little haven for the newborn to float on. It’s truely gorgeous!

My vote is for #5.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:33 pm Melissa

#5 is wonderful. Way to go Judith!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:35 pm Lisa

#5! This is a professional quality photo and should be published.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:37 pm Chris

I vote for #5. This is a wonderful photo!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:38 pm Spenser

#5 Great picture.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:39 pm Mary

#5! The choice of black and white is perfectly elegant, and the setting is so beautifully done. Both really draw focus to that sweet little baby!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:40 pm Linda

#1 - I have two children - an older boy and younger girl - and I love the connection in the picture.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:41 pm Katie

#5, This is a great picture. When I have children I would love to have such a great moment captured.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 2:41 pm Kellie

I love #5! It is amazing how babies change so quickly - you forget that they were once that little! Great capturing of the moment!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 3:08 pm Denise

#1 is so sweet!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 3:32 pm Amanda Key

This is a tough one. Wow–they are all wonderful. I am voting for finalist #3: Portrait of Me, by Michelle. Great insight to what she wants. Great job.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 3:44 pm Pat

#5 takes my breath away…such a small innocent being on top of his world, perfectly balanced, with softness all around..just the way it should be. Ahhh!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:02 pm Myssie

My vote is for #3. I like the laundry in the background! Michelle, you go girl! As a Mom of two, I know how it gets. We are so consumed with our children that we somehow loose ourselves in all of the chaos. Good luck in your journey!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:06 pm Tami

#1- I am a huge believer in the strong bonds built between siblings. I couldn’t help but get lost in the idea of the future memories yet to be created between these two! What an awesome moment caught!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:07 pm Linda

#1 - absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Kudos, Kel! You can definitely see & feel the love!!
Love the black & white.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:08 pm Whitney

#2: It captures an important “everyday” moment in a natural way.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:09 pm Sue Christianson

Hi Me Ra

I vote for #1. I love how they are looking at each other and little Tess looks like she just discovered big brother. So cute!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:10 pm Jamil

I vote for #1 because of the beauty of the children
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:14 pm Airika

I vote for #2. It’s obvious that it was a totally candid moment, which I love, and you can feel a quiet anticipation in the air. Great job!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:16 pm Lorlie

I like #5!!!
…an eye-catching picture that reminds me of every child’s innocence….
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:23 pm Dori

I vote for #3!

Love all of the finalists, but #3 hits close to home and is a great reminder for me to “fold less, shoot more.” (When I was little, My mom used to tape herself reminder notes to the walls: “the house doesn’t care, go play with your kids!”) Now where’s my camera…
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:25 pm Julie Watts

This was tough, but #1 makes me think of how many hundreds and thousands of looks those two little people will give each other over their lifetimes, about how we know every nuance of our siblings’ personalities arguably better than we know anybody else. But before the adventure of their lives together begins, it all starts with a look at each other like this…wonderfully captured!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:36 pm Yamila Mulder

I like #5. There is nothing better and more peaceful in this world than a newborn innocence. The idea of a bed made up by towels embrace a wonderful feeling of love, caring, motherhood…..
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:38 pm kelsey

I defininently vot for #5. couldnt find a cuter bundle of love.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:38 pm sharon

#5

I love all the pictures and stories… I’m gonna vote for #5! With baby #4 due any day now I’m getting so excited to start telling her story!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:39 pm kelsey

I definently vote for #5. You couldnt find a cuter bundle of love. The picture is set wonderfully well.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:42 pm Chris

I vote for #3!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 4:43 pm Shari

#1 has my vote. You captured the moment perfect.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:01 pm Lori

I vote for #1
A sweet time - The moment will pass, but the memorie will live on.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:15 pm Christie

My vote is for #5! I am six months pregnant right now with our first child, so I think I am highly vulnerable to beautiful pictures of a new life. But they are all so beautiful and meaningful it was so tough to choose!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:25 pm Cathee

#1 has my vote! I have a similar photo of my 2 boys. I cherish it. As they got older, they sure were not “friends” until they grew up. So I love the innocence; it is just love, with all the other stuff in life removed.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:26 pm Emma

My vote is for #1. What a magical moment to have caught on film!! Gorgeous.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:30 pm Dillman

great foto! u have beautiful children!

i vote number 1
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:32 pm Nesrine

I vote #1. such a wonderful moment!! Absolutely beautiful!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:34 pm Nessrine

#1 has my vote!!! great picture!! it makes me smile
on 07 Jan 2008 at 5:34 pm Nessrine

sorry for the double vote, i only meant to vote once!

oops!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:10 pm Kim S.

#1…lovely moment captured between a brother and a sister! Adorable!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:24 pm Shannon

I vote for #5, what’s more precious than a baby sleeping!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:24 pm Shannon

I vote for #5! What’s more precious than a baby sleeping!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:27 pm TracyWB

I vote for #1. Beautiful shot
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:30 pm chuhui hilton

My vote is for #5. Great job on capturing such a sweet and tender moment.I only wish I could sleep so peacefully, with not a care in the world, just sleep.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:30 pm One Love Photo

#5-Super cute and sweet! It is a real moment and I like how close she got to her subjects.

I LOVE Nikki McClure and I have been using her calendars for years. I was planning on featuring her on my blog this week. She has a great baby journal available called the first 1000 days. That journal with a hand knitted cap is the best baby shower gift! You can get the journal on: http://www.buyolympia.com
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:33 pm Alicia

I vote for #5. You captured the sweet innocense of all our beginnings in this world. I love this photo! Thank you for sharing!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:33 pm pam

I had to smile when I saw Michelle’s self portrait. I have one almost identical to this EXCEPT my 1,3, and 5 year old are all standing there in the mirror looking at me!
22 years later, it is still displayed in my bedroom.
So, even though they are all winners with such stunning photographs, my vote goes to #3 this time.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 6:35 pm One Love Photo

Sorry I meant #4, #5 is nice as well but I REALLY like #4! I love the light in his little eyes!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:10 pm el finalayson

i like shot #1; I think the surprise and love is palpable-

el
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:10 pm Gina

I vote for #1! What a great pose of the older brother holding his new baby sister. The way they are looking at each other says it all!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:17 pm Kimberlyn Totten

#3 has my vote. I love how unstaged and real it is. My other favorite is #4, only cause I had to look twice and make sure it wasn’t me in the mirror….i’m sure alot of moms who follow your blog will connect with this graet shot! All lovely!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 7:20 pm Kara Lee

I’m voting for #1! I love the lighting and the way the siblings are looking at each other. They almost have that mischievous look on their faces like Mom so watch out–someday these two will probably be quite the pair.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:01 pm Todd

I vote for number 3 because it is my wife and if I don’t, I’ll be in big trouble.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:13 pm mo

#5
I love the baby on the towels. Seems so peaceful. Very well done.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:50 pm JenD

#3 - definitely hits a chord with me - thanks for sharing, Michelle!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 8:53 pm Nicole Matty

#3

While I enjoyed all of the photographs and their stories, Michelle’s shot really resonated with me. It’s all too easy to lose yourself in your
“Momminess” and then years from now look back and wonder where the time went…they grow up so fast! Afterall, whose favorite childhood memories are about how spotless the house was or how the laundry was always neatly put away!

Cheers to you Michelle #3!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:04 pm Dawn

#1…I love the way you can almost hear little Tess’s cooing as she looks at her big brother’s face.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:09 pm Sean

#1 stands apart in it’s creativeness. The black & white leaves it stoic. It is by far less pre-concieved than the others. It exceeds in its originality and purity.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:17 pm Aja

#1 gets my vote!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:37 pm Lara

#5! How can you resist a sleeping baby?
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:39 pm Stacy

My vote is for #2.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:41 pm Sara Montgomery

Number 2 gets my vote! Great job Stacie!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 9:43 pm Jan

#5 definitely…………very creative and beautifully captured the moment.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:21 pm gail

#1.
The best.
So real and unstaged.
Brings a tear to one’s eye.
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:28 pm ron storer

number five
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:30 pm Kimberlyn Totten

Oopps! Got my number’s mixed up the first time…my vote is for #2 (the girls in the school yard!) Love the depth of field, color and expressions on the sisters faces. Love Michelle’s #3 as well. Kodos to your hubby for casting his vote!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:43 pm heather

#1 is absolutely a gorgeous picture - the love between the two just screams at you
on 07 Jan 2008 at 10:44 pm Dick Morris

My vote is for #2. The subject matter was great. The setting was good. Good color. Good depth of Field. Besides that was taken by my daughter… Those are my grandchildren and they are cute!!!!
on 07 Jan 2008 at 11:08 pm Dorian

I love number #3. It gets my vote.

#1 did touch my heart. I have one like that of my daughter and son.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:48 am Wendy

#1–I can almost feel the connection between the two. Awesome catch!!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:55 am Tammie

I vote for #1. What a wonderful moment. I would love to have pictures like this of my children when they were little.
Tammie
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:05 am Deb Thompson

Wow! These are all great images, but if I had to choose just one if would be #3. I want to say good luck to Michelle in her goals for 2008.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:17 am Tom J

My vote goes for #1. The detail and how the picture is framed is awesome. It’s not easy taking good pictures like that one. That’s one that they’ll always cherish.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:37 am Micky

#1!! #1!! #1!!
Kids are amazing and when you can capture a moment, a memory, like that you are lucky. Nice shot. I hope you win!!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:56 am Jay G

I vote for #1. What a great picture!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 8:25 am Dawn

#1 gets my vote. The expression on their faces are priceless! You can see the love in their eyes too. It seems like a once in a life time shot.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 8:54 am Shawn

Gotta go with #1. The look on Tess’ face is priceless!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 9:33 am Vince Schommer

I vote for #5. A picture of serenity.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:01 am Colin Brissey

I like #5 because it’s well balanced and framed. The bright background gives the hint of sunlight.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:04 am Cathy

Peace on Earth. My vote is #5.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:07 am Beka

I vote for #5, that picture is just too sweet.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:07 am Virginia Llorca

Voting for #1. May they keep the sense of wonder and joy…
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:14 am Mike

I vote for #1. What a great shot !!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:24 am Rod

#5. A precious moment.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:33 am TLP

They’re all so great. To me #5 is the obvious new beginning, We can’t rewind, stop precious moments,or start anew. And for this little one the world is so new and massive in compare. I have a 10 year old and to bring back so many moments would be the greatest gift.
So # 5 it is.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:45 am Sheela

My vote is for #5. I felt the serenity. Just brilliant!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:48 am Rhonda Burton

Serene, plush and such innocence - AAH - must go with #5.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:51 am TomS

#1 rocks out!!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:55 am PeteB

#1 Rocks!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:56 am Anthony

I vote for picture #1. Big Brother Shay and baby sister Tess.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:57 am AnnW

I vote for #1. Very beautiful moment.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:59 am TAnn

#1 gets my vote!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:00 am Gerald

I vote for #1.
Great Shot
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:01 am Jo

#1 for sure
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:18 am Christiana

#3! I love how she included the laundry. It gave us more of a window into her life.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:23 am Me Ra

Yeah! So many wonderful comments and votes for the finalists!! You all are fantastic and such an encouraging community! Can’t wait to see who the winners are!!!

Vote until Wednsday night!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:26 am jen

#3 i relate to the resolution to feed your passions!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:27 am Teresa

#5 stopped my world and evoked emotions both sweet and poignant. Especially liked the use of black and white which seemed to focus my eye on the subject and hold it there.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:31 am Karen Mikols

No. 1 is my FAVORITE!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:32 am Marci

I like #2 the best.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:34 am Christine

I vote for picture number 2. Stacie truly captures the feelings her children were experiencing in that momment but more than that… you can tell how the mom is feeling too.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 12:04 pm LM

A big vote for #5. Just looking at this picture while at work (shh!) seems to create a sense of calm and serenity. sigh
on 08 Jan 2008 at 12:11 pm Michele

My vote is for #4

Once again it was hard to choose just one. I kept coming back and looking at them all - wanting to be sure I voted for the right one. I kept coming back to 4, so 4 it is. I love the composition.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 12:30 pm Barb Schommer

I vote for #5. I love the composition and the feel of the photo. Precious!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 12:35 pm Tiffany

Pick me!! Pick me!! I love #1. That eye contact between the two is so hard to catch with little ones. (pick me! pick me!) She captured it! (pick me! pick me for the workshop!)
on 08 Jan 2008 at 1:10 pm Jen

I vote for # 5 - Judith!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 1:55 pm kelly

I want to place my vote for Finalist #1: Big Brother Shay and Baby Sister Tess, by Kelly (proud mom).
on 08 Jan 2008 at 1:56 pm kelly p

I vote for finalist #1
on 08 Jan 2008 at 2:35 pm Kris W

My vote is for #1. What a great piture Kelly!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 2:44 pm Ray Germani

# 5 is great, good job Judith
on 08 Jan 2008 at 2:46 pm Venessa Villasenor

#5 is my favorite! What a great picture

V
on 08 Jan 2008 at 2:53 pm Jenn S

I vote for #3. Great insights and hopefully she can do what she wants to accomplish.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 2:55 pm Marilisa

I vote for #2
on 08 Jan 2008 at 3:14 pm Reid

I think new beginnings and feelings often come about when an obstalce or burden is over come. Which allows something new to arise and make it’s self apparent in all aspects of life. I feel very few things capture this, in the way coping with anxiety on the first day of school does. Which is perfectly displayed in this entry.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 3:15 pm ingreen

#1 is my choice, for the simple fact that unlike the other photos which are obviously staged,#1 is spontaniously capturing a singular moment. Great job Kelly!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 3:16 pm Matt

I vote for #1. Way to capture a wonderful moment!!
Go #1!!!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 3:19 pm Reid

I’ve always felt the best way to experience and bring upon new things is by overcoming obstacles or burdens. It allows you to see and feel things differently and becomes apparent in other aspects of life. To me this picture perfectly captures the anxiety of coping with “the first day of school”. In my opinion one of the more significant trials in a child’s life. Very well done #2.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 3:28 pm Jen Sulak

i’m going to vote for #3…

cause that speaks volumes of something that fades in and out of our lives whether teens, single, married, kids, no kids or whatever…sometimes we have our identity secured, we lose it and then find it again. I think thatz a sweet picture and a sweet story!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 3:33 pm Jay

I like #2 the best. I also like to think they showed up a day early, and that is why no one else is around.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 4:47 pm Carlene

Love the tenderness.
So much to be said in just the look .
Beautifully captured !!
Carlene
on 08 Jan 2008 at 4:49 pm Carlene

#1 says it all….thats the look for me.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:10 pm Chris

My vote is for #2.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:16 pm nora

Vote for #5 please - adorable!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:17 pm Raquel Reid

I vote for #5! I love the idea of the super soft tiny little baby that is so soft and cozy on the towels very nice!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:18 pm Theresa

I vote for # 5 how did they get those towel so white much less the baby to sleep like that… great picture
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:19 pm Jason Reid

Nice picture, very artistic
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:19 pm Jason Reid

I vote for #5
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:21 pm Angela

#5 gets my vote. I like snuggling on freshly washed towels =0)
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:21 pm Dave Bayer

The sleeping baby on the towels gets my vote! #5 all the way
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:22 pm Angela

#5 gets my vote. those towels look warm =0)
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:23 pm Mary cook

Nothing says “life is peaceful” like a new sleeping infant. #5 is worth a thousand words. Way to go Judith!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:23 pm Robert

Number 2
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:24 pm Mimi Gattinella

I like #5 the best.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:26 pm Robin Gattinella

#5 is very creative, that’s the one I like the most.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 5:54 pm Angelica

#5. Well done, Judith!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:02 pm Jerry

I would like to vote for #5. It captures the peacefulness of the sleeping babe.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:17 pm Vangie

#5 definitely cute. A heartwarming Geddes moment. So serene.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 6:37 pm Pam Gifford

I really like #2. It reminds me of growing up w/Doug in Ocean Shores.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 7:14 pm Stefanie

#2 gets my vote. Beautiful candid shot!! This photo reminds me of all “the 1rst day of school” photos(all 15-19yrs worth) hanging out in my p. albums. Precious!!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 7:30 pm Cindy B. in Montana

#1! She really caught that special moment of connection between little ones. Great job!
on 08 Jan 2008 at 8:06 pm shays bud

i vote #1
its the bomb diggity
the little boy is my best friend
on 08 Jan 2008 at 8:15 pm henry

#1 is the best one out there….it rox…go shay and tess u rock…yaaaaaaaa….woot woot
on 08 Jan 2008 at 8:38 pm Laurie Hull

I vote for # 4 I feel your pain sister:)
on 08 Jan 2008 at 9:42 pm Lynda

This reminds me of my two little girls going off to school many years ago.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 9:43 pm Lynda

My vote is for #2
on 08 Jan 2008 at 9:59 pm Annie

I vote for #5. The black and white photo of the beautiful sleeping baby captures the awe and wonder of new life. The lighting is great.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:05 pm Tina

#5 Definately!!!!!!!!!!

Pure innocence.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:23 pm Athena

Numbah ONE, Hands down
love the rest, but it’s the best

Athena
on 08 Jan 2008 at 10:29 pm Jane

#1, definitely! Beautifully composed and very sweet.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:06 pm Janine

I vote for number 1. Having kids I love the connection they have looking at each other. Great job Kelly. Its beautiful.
on 08 Jan 2008 at 11:27 pm CB Romero

I’ve got to go with #5! The picture is so well done, so captivating. Love that little baby boy, too!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 6:01 am Lisa Reyna

#5 gets my vote; almost makes me want to have one, almost!

Lisa
on 09 Jan 2008 at 6:51 am Kari

#2 gets my vote…
on 09 Jan 2008 at 7:29 am Alissa

I vote for #3 Portrait of Me by Michelle. I love it because it could be behind that camers. Her words are my words. Love it!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 7:30 am Alissa

to add to that last comment… I really can spell. I just have one toddler pushing on my chair to get in my lap and two preschoolers talking to me and asking for things…. Yeah, I hear ya Michelle!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 7:47 am jenny

my vote is for #3. i can see myself in this shot. good job to everyone!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 7:58 am Melissa D

I vote for number 2. There are so many stories happening in this photograph, I can’t believe it!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 8:41 am Karen M.

My vote is #1, because of the emotion and love shown in it. Of all the finalists, this was the only one that made me feel something, and made me feel connected to the subjects. Great photo!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 8:42 am Lori Richardson

I love #4…..the joy in the kids faces is so sweet… colors are fantastic, and you can almost hear the piano playing!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 8:43 am Lori Richardson

oops, I meant #4!!!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 9:00 am Erin

#5! I love the way she put baby “on a pedestal” with the stack of towels. –A great way to honor such a special new beginning!
on 09 Jan 2008 at 9:37 am Dave

I vote for #1 … it’s tough to capture candid moments with a child, and this one is priceless.
on 09 Jan 2008 at 10:34 am ShellyK

My vote goes to #1 - this photo really does capture the conmection between the brothers.
on 09 Jan 2008 at 10:34 am Heidi J

It was a tough decisio