Over the past couple of years several friends have entered the International Photography Awards (IPA), and most of them have entered, and often been rewarded with at least an Honorable Mention. They have encouraged me to join them, and this year I finally felt comfortable submitting some images to this prestigious contest.

I’ve been away, in Canada, and heard by email from a friend that I had received an Honorable Mention (actually three of them) for some of the submissions.

Below are the three winners:

First, Convergence III, a black and white architectural bridge study of the Ravenal Bridge in Charleston, SC.

Next, Mystical Googins Island, a sunrise shot at Wolfe’s Neck State Park, Freeport, Maine. I must confess, that I was not planning to enter this image, but was convinced by the argument of some dear friends.

Finally, Ravens Roost Sunset, one of my favorites, from the Blue Ridge Parkway, in the Shenandoah area of Virginia.

So, what didn’t win an award? Sadly, the re-titled, Venus and Saturn Dance on the Sea, came home empty handed. This was taken at the same Freeport, Maine sunrise as Mystical Googins Island, above. It may not be a winner, but it is still one of my favorites! I love the triangle between the two planets above the silhouetted trees, their reflection blurred by the motion of the water, and the sun’s rays peeping over the horizon. You do have to see it full-size to appreciate all of that. Please do click on it to see the details :-)

If you are interested, prints and canvases of some are available now, and the rest will be available soon, in the online gallery.