Judged by Mike Terry
The criteria I tried to stick to with this selection was my first initial reaction and the speed of that reaction. There were a few that I found humorous after thinking about the incongruence of the image and message, but in the end I decided to rely on humor as pure a concentrate if possible.
To explain a bit further, I loved the photo of the signs that are in such abrasive colours with messages about firearms and a kids slide layered next to each other, but I think these are examples of a more subtle, ‘slower moving’ humour. One that might function with cynicism and darkness where the ‘humor’ in that image is more the salve that addresses what the actual message depicted, the reality of that collection of signs.
I just love the ‘miss’. A contrast of earnestness from the wide-open mouth and balletic stance with the perfect moment where it is very clear that what is supposed to happen will in fact, definitely not happen. Composition wise, it has a balance to it that helps it read very quickly. I hear Nelson from the Simpsons ‘Ha-ha’ when I see this image.
This is a great moment, a very childish expression that piques my interest. Is he annoyed at the other man, commiserating on a report about a shared adversary, sulking after being reprimanded as the position (backed against the wall) might suggest? This reminds me of some of those early LIFE publications that always had really dramatic faces and gestures, like the famous photo of Sophia Lauren looking at Jane Mansfield’s cleavage with not so subtle judgement at a dinner table. It’s a quick read and a bit transgressive as you’d think a politician would be a bit more polished than to roll his eyes like a teenager.
I imagine the photographer was probably not given much time to react, and I think the composition is just so balanced and nice in this image. That foot straight out just looks so confident and perfect. I also like the complete disregard of everyone around them as well.
Utah News Photographers Association 