I was exceptionally excited to learn the other day that the leader for the Madison photo walk chose MY image to be the local winner. When I signed up for the walk I admit I initially drooled over the prizes, but I never even imagined that I’d anything I would shoot would stand out in a crowd of other talented photographers!

This was my winning shot:

“Without a Roof”

Prizes and fuzzy feelings aside for a moment… I’m incredibly honored that out of all of the beautiful photos that were entered mine was chosen, for a couple of reasons:

• 1. It always feels good to have my photography recognized by someone outside of my normal circle of feedback, it affirms to me that perhaps I’m on the right track as I continue to grow and learn this craft.

• 2. I feel that the photo itself makes an important statement. First of all, I was raised by social justice activists, and as a result I have acquired a strong sense of compassion and appreciation for the stories of those who are less fortunate in our society. Homelessness is often overlooked… people without roofs tend to be invisible, or are judged without empathy, or are shown merely pity without compassion. I do not intend to stand here on a soapbox and go on righteously about humanitarianism, but if my photo makes someone look twice or think a little more about those less fortunate, then I feel as if maybe I’ve made a tiny bit of difference.

So for those reasons(and the previously mentioned fuzzy feelings) I’m extremely appreciative for the opportunity to share my image on the international scale, more than I can even express. Thank you.