Chasing Smiles Photo Contest Winners

Thank you to all the photographers that shared their photos showing people smiling in this photo contest with chances to win a photo monitor and more.

"To all of the contest participants, you made my day. There's nothing more infectious than smiling people. My heart warmed while judging this series of photographs. Moreover, you made it hard to choose. Each of you captured the essence of "Smile" in a unique, creative way. Bravo!" - Stacy L. Pearsall

A special thanks to friend and professional photographer Stacy L. Pearsall for her collaboration as a guest judge. Stacy L. Pearsall got her start as an Air Force photographer at the age of 17. During her time in the service, she traveled to over 41 countries, and attended S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. The release of her first photography book, Shooter: Combat from Behind the Camera, received worldwide praise as "A book of the highest levels in the annals of combat journalism."

Congratulations Grand Jury Winner "Chris Junior (5)" by Chris_Photoshooter

"A moment is defined as an indefinitely short period of time which happens instantly. It's a challenge to capture such instances when they're so fleeting. Perhaps the photographer had the home-field advantage. From my standpoint, it's irrelevant. The contest was meant to capture a smile and I felt baby Chris Junior's pure, genuine smile was captured the moment it happened. That's tough for anyone. When I look at this picture, I'm there in the room. I'm wondering what someone so new to the world could be so enthusiastic over. Perhaps the baby is just happy to be in the world with his new parents. It's a little piece of magic at precisely the right moment. Warm and fuzzy." - Stacy L. Pearsall

Congratulations Runner Up "Triplets in the tub" by Child_Expressions

"Timing is defined as a synchronizing of various parts. In this image of the "Triplets," timing was everything. The photographer captured three individuals all in their own worlds, beating to their own drum and captured the moment of all three smiling at precisely the right time. I find myself drifting back and forth through the image from one face to another. Their smiles are infectious. What great timing!" - Stacy L. Pearsall

Congratulations Runner Up "Cowboy Up" by FotoflyStudio

"Someone's personality is defined by the visible aspects of one's character as it impresses others. This photographer captured the subject's personality and smile. I can see this little cowboy personality shine through the straw hat and plaid shirt. Take away the props and I still know this dude has an outgoing, laughable personality with a smile to match! Giddy-up! " - Stacy L. Pearsall

Congratulations Runner Up "Old Friends" by ronmcginnis

"What defines connection is the relationship between two individuals, or in this case a human and their mule. I immediately know there's an visible connection between the animal and its human based on the expressions worn on both subjects' faces. Trust me if a mule could smile, that's what it would look like! What a dynamic duo." - Stacy L. Pearsall

Congratulations Amateur Winner "Twins" by kimberlymorris