AS A PHOTOGRAPHER, you know when you’ve snapped a photo that tells a story, that freezes a moment, that captures an emotion. Light and composition and focus also factor into the equation of a memorable image.
The BINGO callers. My first place winning photo.
Such was my reaction to photographing John and Lavonne, BINGO callers at the 2013 July Fourth celebration in North Morristown. Many of my images from that day make me proud of my work as a photographer.
Through my photography, I strive to show the everyday and celebratory moments of life—the people, places and happenings that define my world in Southern Minnesota.
And North Morristown on the Fourth of July is about as rural and down-to-earth as you get in these parts. So when I saw this couple calling BINGO, I determined to photograph the scene. They appeared to not even notice me and my camera, so focused were they on their job.
That’s precisely how I like it, to go unnoticed, to click the shutter button and document.
Professional photographers John Hart and Amber Arnold from the Wisconsin State Journal saw, too, what I see in that “Fourth of July BINGO Callers” image. They selected it as the first place winner in the People category of the 2014 photo contest sponsored by National Mutual Benefit.
The judges commented:
This photo has a timeless quality and is a candid, natural moment. It’s a slice of Americana.
I couldn’t have said it better.
Me and my Canon EOS 20D. Minnesota Prairie Roots file photo.
As a photographer, I am delighted to receive this professional validation of my work with a monetary prize and publication.
This is the second time I’ve won in the National Mutual Benefit Photo Contest. My last win came in 2003 when I photographed a butterfly on a daisy, garnering first place in the scenery division. That was back in the day when I was still shooting with film. I’ve only entered the competition a few times.
What do you think makes a winning or really good photo?
FYI: To view all of the winning photos and judges’ comments, click here. None of the contest images could be digitally altered.
© Copyright 2014 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
I would have to concur with the judges 100%. Freezing these types of moments in time preserves not only the story, but also records history; a record of those lives that have come before many. 110% Americana. Congratulation on 1st place. Well deserved.
Thank you, Dan. I kindly accept that from an outstanding photographer like you. (Readers, see Dan’s work at: http://dantraun.com/
Congrats! It is a perfect snappie of Americana, that is very accurate. I have a few photos that I am pretty proud of myself and it seems that everyone is a photographer in some way these days with smart phone cameras. I guess I would say I am a photography enthusiast—definitely not a professional by any means like you are, but it is a fun thing to do and see what can be created through the lens. Congrats again.
Thanks, Beth Ann. I love how advances in technology have improved the world of photography and opened it up to almost anyone.
Huge CONGRATS!!!!!! The capture is truly “timeless” (the descriptive attribute that makes a photo transcend time and place) and something that may be observed in so many gatherings (Bingo is probably THE most popular “event” at our local summer festivity-“Hoedown”- rarely is there a seat vacant for more than a moment!!!!!).
Thank you, Doreen. I like that, timeless. And, yes, BINGO seems to be a big thing. My mom plays it all the time at her assisted living/nursing home residence. Lots of nickels piling up in her win stash.
I think it’s the simplicity of the game (unless you have a dozen, or so, cards!!!!!). It can be quite “cut-throat”, too…LOL!!!!
I don’t know who these people are – but I know those people. Your photo so perfectly captures the essence of rural social life that it is instantly familiar to anyone who has spent time shuffling around church pancake breakfasts or VFW fundraisers.
Thank you. I like your perspective on this photo. You are absolutely correct in using that phrase “rural social life.”
And, yes, this image could apply to thousands of fundraisers and events in my area.
HI Audrey, I just started following your blog a week or so ago. I just wanted to let you know I’m thoroughly enjoying your writing-style and your photography. Re: the BINGO photo – I love that the background is a pull shed too… 🙂 Keep up the good work! -Erin
Thanks, Erin. I noticed you’d subscribed and am delighted to have you among the Minnesota Prairie Roots readership. Welcome.
I was waiting for someone to comment on the poleshed setting. That’s North Morristown, about as rural as it gets on the Fourth of July. Love that place, that event and the people I connect with there.
Hi Audrey – Congratulations! I’m not surprised that you won; your eye is attuned to story and detail in a way that always makes your photos pull the viewer in. Good photos are a lot like good writing – they present a slice of story and the viewer can’t just walk away. They stay there, take it in, and feel something from the experience. That perfectly describes what your photos do for me!
Thank you, Kathleen. I am humbled by your reaction to my photography.
Congrats, Mom! That’s exciting!
Thank you, sweet daughter.
The judges knew a good photo when they saw one, I think this is a great portrait of “Americana”! I particularly like the womans face, she seems pleased and so content! Congratulations Audrey, what an honor 🙂
Thank you, Jackie. I am, at this very moment, working on a poem about bingo to enter in a competition. This photo is inspiring that poem.
Readers, please check out Jackie’s photography at this link: http://jackie000.blogspot.com/
You will find some outstanding work from a photo blogger who has become a real-life friend. We share many similar interests and values and, well, what can I say except that I am blessed by knowing Jackie.
Awww, thanks Audrey, we are definitely kindred spirits!
Not surprised Audrey. Your work is delightful and we love it!
Thank you, kindly. You are so sweet to write that, Dee.
I like capturing the naturalness of people, places and things 🙂 Beautiful Capture – thanks so much for sharing – love it – BINGO! Happy Week
And you do a fantastic job of capturing naturalness.
Thank you so much – appreciate it 🙂 I learned a while back that I wanted to have fun with photography and that has helped in what and how I capture the world around me.
Wow- your accolades just keep stacking up-congratulations!!
You so deserve the recognition.
Thank you, Sue. It was nice also to earn some cash for my work.
yes, money is always good 🙂
Well done, Audrey. That shot reminded me of a photo series I saw earlier on Slate http://www.slate.com/blogs/behold/2014/01/07/alison_turner_bingo_culture_looks_at_the_world_of_bingo_across_the_united.html or as they say in bingo parlance a series I saw B-4.
Thanks, Ryan, and it’s good to hear from you.