Motion Blur Photo Contest Winners

Thank you to all the photographers that shared their best blurry shots showing motion in the Motion Blur Photo Contest with chances to win a Gift Card Bundle and more!

"I went into my selections looking for story over technique and how artists use the concept of motion as part of that story. That meant some gorgeous pieces weren't included in my list, which kind of breaks my heart. There is not one image among the finalists that did not grab me in some way, making this an incredibly difficult choice. In the end, I pulled out photographs that I felt embodied the principle of using movement to give the viewer a reason to think about the movement in depth - what does it imply and how do I relate to it?" - Scott Valentine

A special thanks to our friend and professional photographer Scott Valentine for his collaboration as a guest judge in this photo contest. Scott Valentine has been helping people understand the intricacies of digital imaging for nearly 20 years, specifically in image processing and editing. He blends his technical background in physics with his deep interest in art and learning for a unique, approachable delivery of often complex topics. Emphasis on experimentation and fundamentals are hallmarks of Scott's teaching style, and can be seen in his books, videos, and magazine articles. Scott's own art represents broad explorations in photography, illustration, and digital techniques.

Congratulations Grand Jury Winner "Maybe Someday... " by liliaalvarado

"Motion here isn't just about the immediate moment passing, but looking to moments yet to come. The dreamy, nostalgic feel is enhanced by good control of depth of field and the implied transience of opportunity in the train's motion. It's not clear whether the blur is from the original capture or performed as post processing, but the choice to include it makes the whole the story and represents an excellent choice for a final composition. The motion is integral to distinguishing between a moment and the future." - Scott Valentine

Congratulations Runner Up "catch me if you can " by EricLinusF

"Classic tension in a nicely graphical composition. It like the ambiguity of the train's direction, which keeps you from knowing who is going forward or backward. Is he running to the future or the past? It's also fun to think about the inclusion of "Union Station", which is a hub both both for coming together and going separate ways. Lots of cinematic elements wrapped up into this." - Scott Valentine

Congratulations Runner Up "2016-0924-ChinookPass-2-2" by thanebp

"A slightly different take on a classic motion blur subject. This treatment invites the viewer to remember such night time rides, where the world simply does not exist beyond the reach of the headlights. I really enjoy the sharp, vibrant feel to the foliage, and control of reflection from the sign. This is a snapshot of the long trip home." - Scott Valentine

Congratulations Runner Up "Katie & the Mozzie " by rachelbethany

"The story here is those tiny wings working to master the staid beast. I like the choice to use B&W here, along with contrasting two different types of blur. The elements of humor and struggle are entirely captured in diminutive, furious beats." - Scott Valentine

Congratulations Runner Up "poetry in motion " by dennisglisson

"This one is really interesting for its use of a strobe effect rather than continuous, smooth blur. It's a unique interpretation of the theme that puts you in the moment and yields more than simple visual aesthetics." - Scott Valentine

Congratulations Amateur Winner "River with water from the Marsh" by MariaBander