Photo Contests!

Vote and Win a Sony Cybershot! Top Five Finalists Unveiled!

Me Ra Koh

Here we go friends! This is where it gets crazy!  We had two Photo Contests run simultaneously.  Both Photo Contests had a theme of COMFORT.  One Photo Contest challenged you to focus on using BLUR/Low Fstops = buttery, blurry backgrounds.  The other Photo Contest challenged you to use the theme of COMFORT combined with a BACKGROUND that has PURPOSE.  So today we are going to start the voting for the first challenge: COMFORT and BLUR.  Then next Thursday we’ll post the Five Finalists and start the voting for the COMFORT and BACKGROUND Photo Contest!   Sound good!  YEAH!  Here we go! 

 

Win a CAMERA for voting??!! 

 

Yes, you heard me right!  It’s the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W220/P 12.1 MP Digital Camera!!!  And it’s PINK!  Can you get another color?  I guess, but why would you!  :) 

 

We are taking our voting to the NEXT level this week! If we get 750 plus votes, yes 750 by this Monday (at midnight PST), we get to give one of the Random Voters a hip, new, Sony Cyber-shot!  Not to bad for taking the time to cast a vote, huh! 

 

Can you believe that?!  I’m so pumped!  But that means you’ve got to tell ALL your friends, family, even wake up Granny, and get them to post their vote in TODAY’s comments! I know this contest is going to get crazy real fast with the voting, so we are going to close the voting this Monday night, February 8th, at midnight PST.  That means you have from now until midnight on Monday to vote!

Q:  How do you vote?  What do you win?  See the FAQ below! (It’s super easy.)

 

Q:  What does the winning Finalist get?  Ooooh, that’s good and juicy!  See below for those details!

 

Q:  What are we voting for?  Check it out…

 

Without further delay, I’d like to introduce you to the TOP FIVE FINALISTS for the COMFORT and BLUR Photo Contest!  Notice how they used these themes to tell their stories!  (and be Inspired!)  The challenge was to focus on close, tighter frames with buttery, blurry backgrounds using lower f-stops. You were asked to put our Depth of Field conversation into practice with an overall feeling of COMFORT in your theme.  Well, some of you got out of the box and instead of buttery, blurry backgrounds—you submitted buttery, blurry foregrounds.  And wow!  Your images are amazing! 

 

1. Nuzzeled and Kissed by Mom! by Chelsea Hudson in Phoenix, AZ. 

Chelsea did an amazing job with this photo.  I love the use of blur with mom’s long curls.  This alone adds such a deep softness.  And even more so, the hair frames the emotion that I almost feel like I’m looking through a window into their moment.  But the window is mom’s golden hair.  Does that make sense?  The color processing is also beautiful in this image.  Wonderful job Chelsea!  Thank you so much for submitting!  Do see Chelsea’s blog, CLICK HERE!

 

2.  Tenderness by Jane Wiggins in Waterloo, Iowa .

 

Jane also captured the tenderness between mom and baby but used the low fstop/aperture in a different way.  Instead of having a buttery, blurry background, she made mom’s profile in the foreground buttery and blurry.  The effect is breath taking!  The soft, blur to mom makes me feel her love and comfort surrounding this little one.  I also love the choice of black and white b/c it captures the timelessness of mom’s love for baby that much more.  Wonderful job Jane!

 

  3. First Halloween! by Christine Barker in Baltimore, MD.

 

This image is fantastic!  It’s a great example of creativity that got“out of the box”.  Christine, you knocked this out of the ball park!  Not only is the background buttery and blurred, but Christine has dad in motion and blurred.  I would love it if you told us how you captured this!    This image makes me wonder what the story is.  Did dad have leaves all over him?  Did the wind kick up leaves?  Is he going so fast that leaves flew up?  Any time you can draw someone in to create story behind your image, you have a powerful image.  It almost looks like the cold, October leaves are flying around dad as his comforting presence ushers his little one from house to house.   But that is only a guess.  Christine, great job on this!  Thank you for sharing! 

  4. My Raggedy Ann! by Gina Oh in CA .

 

Gina submitted a photo for our Photo Contest a couple years ago.  When she submitted this one, I couldn’t believe it was the same Gina.  I’ve asked her to do an interview for the Amazing Mom feature because you will be inspired by how far her photography has come in such a short time.  I love the use of buttery, blur in this image.  The soft, golden brush in the background.  And then the contrast of a crisp white sundress with the red haired Raggedy Ann…it’s powerful.  The mix of colors brings a sense of comfort.  Gina, this photo is amazing!  So proud of you!

 

5. Little Cowgirls! by Maureen Roy in Missoula, Montana.

 

 

This image jumped off the screen at me.  It is a wonderful example of how the focus–the story–doesn’t have to always be “in focus” or sharp.  The creativity on this image is out of the box.  I almost feel like the blurred cowgirl boots lens room to more creativity on the viewer’s end.  It’s as if I can hear the girls giggling and feel the hot summer air.  All these feelings come from this single image.  This is a wonderful story telling image.  Wonderful, beautiful job Maureen!  Thank you for sharing!  To see Maureen’s block, CLICK HERE!  

 

There it is! The Fabulous Five Finalists! Didn’t I tell you they were AMAZING!  Click on their names to see more of their work!  But vote before you go b/c whoever gets the most votes will WIN!!

 

And all of you, plus the winners, have the opportunity to win a Sony Cyber-shot Camera! All you have to do is post a comment and vote for your favorite finalist. Leave a few words about why they were your favorite, and you are entered into the Sony Cyber-shot Camera drawing!

 

Let’s go!  750 vote goal, HERE WE COME!

PHOTO CONTEST FAQ:

FAQ #1: How do you vote?

Answer: Just click on the pink word “Comments” at the end of this blog post. Put the # of photo your voting for first (it makes counting the votes way faster), and then add a few words about why you like their image the most. Remember, your comments and feedback give to the Five Finalists more than any prize from us. Please be kind, encouraging, and share all that you can with these wonderful Five Finalists! Your feedback on their images is priceless! That’s why we do the Random Voter Awards, because we appreciate your voting and feedback so much. So spread the word to family and friends! And ask them to vote! We need 750 VOTES to give this camera away!

(Please vote one time for one image. Thanks!)

FAQ #2: Is there a new Photo Contest happening right now? And when is the Deadline?

Answer: Not yet!  After we finish the voting for these two contests (or sooner) we’ll announce the next Photo Contest Theme.  It’s one my favorite Photo Contest Themes so far!

 

FAQ #3: What are the prizes for the Random Voters and the Finalist?

Answer: Scroll on down!!

 

Prizes for the Winning Finalist and the Random Voter Winners!

In the last couple of contests, we’ve broken our record for votes received!  You all spread the word, and the votes came rolling in! If we clear 750 votes on this contest, we are going to pick a Random Voter (not necessarily #750, but a RANDOM Voter) to win the Sony Cyber-shot camera!!!

And then we’ll keep going and pick one more Random Voters to win a $25 customized, cool looking Starbucks card! So that’s one Random Winner of a new, slick Sony Cyber-shot camera, and one MORE random winner of $25 customized Starbucks cards, if we clear 750!

 

Deadline for all voting is this Monday night, 4 days from now, 2/8, at midnight PST!! That means we have to clear 750 votes by that time for two Random Voters to be picked and win a pink (or different color :)) Sony Cybershot Camera!

Prize for being the Winner of the Five Finalists!!!

Now what about the finalist’s prize! What will they get?  Well first, each finalist should vote too so they get a fair shot of winning the Sony Cyber-shot camera!  And then the Winning Finalists gets THREE SPECIAL PRIZES!!!

 

1. Get Girded Up with Award Winning Resources!  Their choice of one of our popular 101 Kits: The Essentials to Starting a Photography Business OR the Downloadable version of our Award Winning Refuse to Say Cheese/Beyond the Green Box DVD series.

 

2.  Continue Your Creativity After the Shooting!  Their own copy of Adobe’s Lightroom 2.0 Software!!!!  (thank you Adobe!)

 

3.  Don’t Hide Your Winning Photo!  Show It Off!!!  And the newest addition to our Winning Finalist prizes, their winning photo will be printed on a beautiful canvas!  Our SOAR! Partner, Pixel2Canvas, has joined the Photo Contests as of this year!   And we are so excited b/c now your winning image will be on a BIG, Beautiful Canvas for the wall!

 

So get all your friends and family to jump on here and vote before this Monday at midnight!

 

VOTE AWAY!!!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

p.s.  If your in the mood to keep voting.  You can cast a new vote today and every day for Pocket Philanthropist!  This is your daily reminder.  🙂

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  1. Suzanne says:

    #2. This photograph is stunning. It made me ache to hold my babies again, but they’re grown now. SO I guess I have to go borrow one 😉

    I have to say though, that ALL the photographs are great. I loved creating a story for each one.

  2. kristen says:

    #5
    wow. I could stare at this image forever. the colors, the blur, the heat, the fun, the montana sunset, the cowgirl boots, oooh. I can almost smell & taste the image. gorgeous!

    EXCELLENT JOB LADIES – these are all stunning photos & you’ve all done a great job.

  3. Amanda says:

    1…it captures the mother-child bond so perfectly!

  4. melissa says:

    #1
    Brilliant!

  5. Teresa S says:

    #5
    I love this image! it just makes me want to know what kind of fun those two cowgirls are up to! I love the vibrant red boots – the blur just seems to say catch me if you can…and good luck trying.
    All of the finalists did an excellent job – I enjoyed all of the images!!

  6. Amy N says:

    I love number 4!

  7. Jennifer says:

    all gorgeous and creative shots.
    My vote is for #4. it takes me back to my childhood.

  8. Samantha says:

    #1
    I think all the photographers did an excellent job using blur, but I think this photo captures the theme of comfort the best. Beautiful photography, and I’m still studying the gorgeous light!

  9. Allison says:

    #4 – I think this photo does such a great job at the “comfort” and “blur”. It reminds me of childhood when an object was so comforting that you just had to carry it around all the time and now of my child and how he does the same thing – this must be universal.

  10. Daniel says:

    #4!

  11. Such a difficult decision, but I’m going with #1.

  12. Stefanie says:

    #4
    I grew up with dolls and this touches on childhood for me.

  13. Tina E says:

    I vote for #4. Awesome job Gina!!!

  14. Debbie says:

    #4 for sure. such a sweet photo!!

  15. Gayla says:

    #5 – just brings me back to my childhood and I am a Montana girl :). All the images were great!

  16. Heather says:

    #4 for sure! Great job Gina!

  17. Leah says:

    #4…go gina..

  18. #4 – Gina. I love the raggedy ann shot. very cute!

  19. Cassandra says:

    #2 The blur of the mom creates a warmth that surrounds her baby. The moment captured is quiet and gentle.

  20. Jen says:

    #4 is my fav. Love it when people manage to capture the little things like the way a child so lovingly carries a special item haphazardly wherever they go….

  21. CA says:

    #4

    I used to love my Ragged Ann doll and this just took me right back to that place where my only worry was whether to have grape or strawberry jelly on my pb&j.

    Great job to all finalists!

  22. toki says:

    #4 – they’re all stunning but #4 speaks to me the most. It’s brilliant!!

  23. Wenmei says:

    #5 – I love the perspective. It makes me want to jump up from the grass to follow those little cowgirls wherever they are going.

  24. Christine says:

    #4
    Loving everything about this one – the innocence of the white dress, colors of the doll, and the blur just adds to the timeless look of this photo. This photo really touched me – it made me hunt for my old Raggedy Ann doll for my little girl

  25. #5 Love the togetherness of the girls running off into the distance.. Wonderful shot. Makes one think “sisters”…The focus on the foreground, but the subject in soft blur is very creative and I also loved the muted color tones. Like and old family favorite shot!

  26. Christine says:

    #1. Because it makes me miss nuzzling my newborns. And when they were too little to lift their heads for very long so they just stayed there…nuzzling me without even trying. Ahhh, the power of a photo…

  27. #1. I love that essence of their whole world is shown right there in such a small focal distance. I don’t know of anything that speaks more of comfort than another’s touch.

  28. Jen Sharon says:

    #4 It’s wonderful, and I thought it best fit the comfort theme. All five are fantastic, though! I really want to hear about how Christine got those leaves…

  29. Jamie says:

    #4
    Wonderful Shot!!

  30. Fab job to Gina I VOTE #4

  31. Vero says:

    #5 Gina’s image is incredibly buttery and tells such a great story! Her color/composition is so creative!

  32. #4

    I love the way this shot really reminds the viewer of childhood its timeless and classic

  33. MommiePie says:

    #1

    This image holds much more than an image of a mother holding her baby. It evokes a strong emotion. You can feel the love and tenderness when you look at this photo. Beautiful colors, composition…just beautiful!

  34. michelle says:

    Love them all, but #1 is my favorite.

  35. Linda Baylis says:

    #2. This photograph appeals to my own personal tastes – the composition is simple, classic but beautiful. I love how the baby’s face and it’s shadow creates a strong curve which makes it appear to be in it’s mother’s embrace. If that makes sense? It makes me want to go try photograph a newborn right now!!!

    And I too agree ALL of the photographs are outstanding! They all show amazing talent and have given me much inspiration! Well done ladies.

  36. CS says:

    My vote is for #4!

    Simple. Clean. Timeless. Beautiful.
    Perfect in every way!

  37. Rachel Anderson says:

    #4!!

  38. Cary says:

    My vote is for #3.

  39. Kristy Freeman says:

    I vote #2
    I don’t really have any comments for them, I think that they are all amazing!!! I chose number 2 simply because I have a soft spot for newborns…

  40. Christen says:

    I love them all… but I am going to have to vote for #1. =)

  41. Jim says:

    I vote for 3. First Halloween!

  42. #5 ALL the way!!! beautiful!

  43. 3, Its WONDERFUL ;-p

  44. janessa says:

    #5!!! Love the color and composition!

  45. ryan says:

    I vote for 3. The dad is dressed up as a zombie which rocks!

  46. Charisse says:

    What a difficult choice! They are all so dang good! But if I have to pick one, it would be #2. Makes me want to nuzzle my newborns again!

  47. Jen says:

    #4…it is the whole package. Remind me of my Raggedy Ann as a child. Love it!

  48. s.patel says:

    they are all so great! #4 really caught my eye, though. it makes me wonder about all of the places that doll has gone with that child!

  49. Elsie says:

    #3 A new experience in a blurred world, secure by Daddy’s side. What fun.

  50. Angie says:

    I vote for #5. I just love how creative this shot is. The colors really grab my attention and I just want to keep looking at it. I can just imagine the girls (sisters?) running freely and giggling. Love it!

  51. Sherry says:

    I really liked #1. I love the blurred blond curls. It’s a really cute picture too.

  52. Bethany says:

    I really liked #1. Those moments just melt me.

  53. Hanna says:

    I really like #5 – they are all great shots, but I love the energy in the girls running away and love their skirts w/ the boots, just seems like such a great way to freeze their childhood innocence

  54. Cindy says:

    #4. I love that the raggedy ann looks so content to be held by its little owner. Thi s photo is fantastic.

  55. Julie says:

    #4, i loved watching raggedy ann as a kid!~ brings back a lot of memories

  56. Holly says:

    #3 – Wow, what a shot! I could stare at it all day wondering how she captured this!

  57. Paige S. says:

    My vote’s for #5 – Little Cowgirls. I just LOVE her choice of focus and the story behind the frame. So unique and beautiful!

  58. Joey says:

    I vote for #4. Just looking at the picture brings me peace.

  59. lynda says:

    They are all good … but #4 I think captures “comfort” in such a sweet way – love it!

  60. #5–love it! feels homey to me. reminds me of my childhood.

  61. Lila says:

    #4!!! I love the colours, I love the framing…this is my favourite for sure!

  62. nancy m says:

    I love them all! I would have to vote for #4. I love the little girl holding ragedy ann! The textured look is absolutely stunning and it is soooo frame worthy!

  63. anony says:

    #1. precious.

  64. Syl. says:

    #3 !!!Great dynamics!!!! Action and motion!!!! This picture is alive!

  65. Arthur says:

    #4 the kiddo in the fields with the doll. so pure!

  66. aris wells says:

    i vote for #4

    love it! it brings me great memories.

  67. Alison says:

    #3- awesome job Christine!

  68. Periwinkle Jen says:

    #4 All the images were good, but that one really grabbed me. It has a timeless feel that pulls you in and reminds you of your own special toys or maybe your children’s comfort items. I just love it. It makes me feel all warm and cozy inside:-)

  69. Shaun says:

    #3 – Is the little boy’s dad that is with him, ushering him trick or treating from house to house in the flesh or could this be a daddy watching on from “the great beyond” as a guardian & wishing he could be there? Many wonderful possibilities.

  70. Deene Souza says:

    GINA OOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! yep! That’s a work of art girl!!!! 🙂

  71. Tug says:

    #4 really kept me coming back.

  72. Charles Bong says:

    I vote for #4…its ridunkulous

  73. Claire says:

    #3–I love the dreamy quality (and I love his hair!)

  74. Denise says:

    #4 Just Beautiful…and cute to boot!

  75. Dawn says:

    #4 – Love the simplicity and tenderness.

  76. Heather Brandt says:

    I vote for #4 because it seems like it has caught a beautiful moment of childhood as well as being a skillfully shot photo.

  77. brittney nichols says:

    I vote for number 3 First Halloween!

  78. Paige says:

    #1
    A moment of awe and love captured. Love it.

  79. Theresa says:

    I vote for #3, this photo is fantastic and shows amazing composition, it really grabbed my attention

  80. Juanita says:

    #4 – The use of color, the use of texture…it is simple, breathtaking, absolutely beautiful. I adore it 🙂

  81. Melinda says:

    #1
    I loved the framing of the shot with mom off center and mom’s curls forming that natural framing of the relationship with the baby. Great job to all the entries though. So hard to choose a favorite!

  82. Krista says:

    #4 is beautiful! I love the color and texture.

  83. Jenny says:

    #1
    I just loved the moment that she captured–so private and perfect!

  84. Tamara says:

    #4 …love the bright raggedy ann against muted backround.

  85. Amanda says:

    I LOVE # 4…it stood out to me right away. Melts my heart! Congrats to everyone…you all did an amazing job!!

  86. Mary says:

    #2 – very sweet

  87. Ronda says:

    #4 Out of the five entries, this one jumps out. I love the blurred grasses all around…that’s using the bokeh brain!

  88. Bryan says:

    #4, just so awesome

  89. Al says:

    #4 something about that doll! I love the color and the texture used!

  90. Keri says:

    #1 Very intimate and warm. The golden colors give it a timeless feeling.

  91. #1- I love how the only 2 things in focus are the most important… mom’s face and baby’s head. The intimacy depicted in this picture is incredible. I almost feel like I’m observing a moment so private and tender that I should look away because it’s not my moment to share! I also agree, that the coloring is beautiful and it adds to the softness well.

  92. Bethany says:

    #1 – such a beautiful photo – it almost brings tears to my eyes!

  93. Bartosz says:

    #3. Great shot!! Holy blur Batman!

  94. Terri says:

    #1-captures the pure and honest drunkedness of a new mother’s love for their child.

  95. #3 and I also would like to know how you did it because I have a ton of pictures like this one and I always thought I did something bad. I would have never thought I was doing something right…so much to learn!!

    Great Job Christine!

  96. John says:

    #3 – everything is blurred except the boy — he’s focused on what he wants.

  97. DP says:

    #4 gets my vote! Creative photography!

  98. Laurie Schraml says:

    love #1-it looks almost like someone gazing into still waters-but instead of a reflection there is a beautiful perfect baby

  99. Jen says:

    #4. The bright colors pop against a neutral background. Also, I used to have a Raggedy Ann, and it has that sentimental feel about it.

  100. Michelle says:

    WOW! These are all such great images and I’m having a hard time deciding!!!!!!! #2 and #4 really spoke to me. I just keep going back to number 4, though, so 4 it is!!

    Great job ladies! All the image are beautifully artistic.

  101. Liane Dimond says:

    I love #3!!! What great fun Halloween is and it goes by so fast!!! All of the photos wonderfull!!!

    Liane

  102. Sarah says:

    #1 is my pick. I think it does a fantastic job of conveying COMFORT, and having just had a baby, this one spoke to my mama’s heart.

    Fantastic job, finalist! You should all be proud!

  103. Rhonda says:

    #3 I loved this picture the first time I saw it Christine. Great job!

  104. Bruce says:

    #4. BEAUTIFUL!

  105. Elaine says:

    #4 I just LOVE this image. It deserves to be on canvas.

  106. Ceci says:

    #5 LOVE IT… so creative, love the colors and I think it will look gorgeous as a canvas!!

  107. lynda says:

    #1 – it totally strikes emotion, a connection, LOVE. it’s warm, soft and quiet.

  108. Natalia D says:

    I love them all, but will have to choose #3. I love that everything is a blur, but his sweet little face. It’s so synonymous with how fast childhood, and those special moments, go by. Nicely done Christine.

  109. Andy says:

    #4. Love the contrast.

  110. sonia says:

    #4. awwww… this reminds me of when i was a little girl.

  111. Nancy Lutes says:

    #1 – Chelsea Hudson all the way!

  112. Scott says:

    Love #1. Connection and color.

  113. Leslie says:

    #4 evokes memories of my childhood…thanks..

  114. Christina Klahn says:

    #4-Love the tones and the texture applied also.

  115. April says:

    #4 is so sweet and lovely!

  116. susie says:

    #4 is the best one by far.

  117. peter says:

    #4 is my vote.

  118. tara k says:

    #4 is exquisite…the composition, the processing, the feeling it invokes. i could stare at it all day!

  119. #3. I LOVE that his sweet little face is in focus and EVERYTHING around him is in motion or blurred. Reminds me of what we want to do as parents – hold that moment – but it all goes by soooo fast. Fantastic. I want to know you did it too Christine!

  120. Kathy Winter says:

    #4 love the vintage effect of it. A very difficult choice…all the finalists did fantastic work!

  121. Tina says:

    #4 – there is just something about the feel of this picture that I love – it caught my eye as soon as I saw it! Great job everyone!

  122. Andria says:

    My vote is #4!

  123. dan says:

    1. best of all for comforting.

  124. Tessa says:

    Love #2
    #4 is awesome too, but #2 gets the vote.

  125. Julia says:

    #4 – I love the way the Raggedy Ann doll pops, yet the picture has such a natural and peaceful ambiance about it. It has a beautiful shabby chic feeling to it. Just love this one.

  126. Tiffany says:

    #1 : This image is absolutely breath taking. The love that a mother has for her child is one that many can never fully describe but this image captured that moment of being completely in love.

  127. Harmony says:

    #1 is rocking my world! All the finalists pictures are amazing though!

  128. Jessica says:

    #1 stands out for me. Comfort, Calm, Tenderness, Love

  129. Rhonda Steed says:

    #1 It makes my motherly insides ache to hold my babies 🙂 LOVE IT!

  130. Kelsey says:

    #3! Adorable!

  131. Angela says:

    My vote is for #4

  132. Cori says:

    Photo #1 As a mom, I completely identify with this photo-pure joy gazing into your child’s eyes!

  133. casey says:

    3. love the blur.

  134. Silvy says:

    #1–so sweet!

  135. All of the finalists are amazing. I especially love #1. The angle, the depth of field and the color processing of the image all work together to create a timeless, precious and unique moment. It captures perfectly the rapture and mystery of motherhood. It touched my heart.

  136. Casandra says:

    #4 love her work,

  137. Joseph says:

    #3 love it

  138. Annette Allan says:

    #4 – The photo made me think of when I was a child and my favorite doll that I took everywhere with me. I can still remember it like it was yesterday….unfortunately, it was about 30 years ago………..

  139. Barbara says:

    photo #3… love the creativity!

  140. Marla-Dee says:

    #3 – I love how the leaves are in motion and how it looks like they are on a mission. Plus, how cute is that little guy! Adorable!

  141. Heather says:

    Love Nos. 4 & 5 but my vote goes to No. 5. Sunlight and friendship.

  142. Judy says:

    WOW – YOU GO GINA OH! #4 FOR SURE!!!

  143. Christal says:

    #4 – Absolutely LOVE #4…the coloring is amazing!!

  144. tricia dunlap says:

    #4 – love it! – so sentimental!

  145. Kim says:

    I absolutely love ALL of them! Me Ra, you made such great choices 🙂 I think that #3 is my favorite though – I love the story that goes along with it.

  146. Madeleine says:

    #1 is amazing

  147. Kyle says:

    #1 – Comfort from a mother’s touch. Beautifully captured, well lit and great DOF.

  148. Tina Palmer says:

    #4, everything about this picture says COMFORT. Can’t wait to read the Amazing Mom interview too.

  149. Heidi Lee says:

    #5 – just love it!

  150. Kevin Shim says:

    #4.

  151. shelly arliskas says:

    #1- love it

  152. Jen White says:

    #4 love so many aspects of this photo, the rule of thirds, the texture added and soft vintage like color–beautiful although all of the photos are very creative.

  153. Joyce Kim says:

    #4

  154. sandy scotti says:

    #4 ….. so beautiful, it makes me think of fairy tales

  155. Stephanie says:

    #4 I think it reminds me of my childhood. I had one of the large size raggedy ann doll. One halloween it’s dress was my costume.

  156. Wendy says:

    #3
    What a great picture. I feel the crisp chill of autumn, I sense the uncertain excitement as a new door is reached, I’m aware of the protection dad provides which encourages the little guy to press on to the unknown.

  157. Hannah S. Chen says:

    #2 gets my final vote I went up and down and up and down the page, and I also really love #5, but I’m going to have to go with #2.

    With a theme of COMFORT, #2 evokes that the most for me. I think Jane also really used the BLUR aspect of it well… there is true intimacy in the photo. It is timeless and precious – the simplicity of it is stunning.

    Really nice work by all the ladies.

  158. Jane says:

    #3! Go Christine! 🙂 I love this image!

  159. Rebecca says:

    #4. I had a little Raggedy Ann once. Awesome picture! 🙂

  160. misty says:

    #5. Love this image. It makes me want to learn more about the story behind this image!

  161. Katherine says:

    #4. I would have to agree with Jen White. I love the colors. Plus I had a Raggedy Ann when I was younger, and she was my favorite toy!

  162. misty says:

    #4. I left the last comment but I meant to vote for #4 even though I think #5 is amazing as well! They are all very inspirational!

  163. #3! Way to go Christine!! Love the movement in this one, feels like you’re rushing to catch up with all of the Halloween excitement around!

  164. Anna says:

    #4 I love the soft dreamy background and the little arms holding close to her Raggedy Ann. Something about little girls and dolls always says “comfort” to me.

  165. Jennifer says:

    #4…the comfort of a doll…so powerful in the world of a child, yet forgotten as we get older. I think that makes this such a great shot.

  166. Ned Hudson says:

    #1
    The way the mother’s hands, so sharply etched, enfold her baby, drew me to this picture.

  167. Patty Reiser says:

    #2 Just tugs at my heart. I love this photograph.

  168. Aaron says:

    #5
    It looks like those girls are off to have a good time!

  169. Dawn says:

    #4 I love the color and edges in this photpgraph. It also says “comfort” the way the little girl is holding her doll. Raggedy Ann is like her security 🙂 My daughter had one of these too when she was a little girl too.

  170. J.Song says:

    #4

  171. Liz P says:

    #4. Love the ethereal, dreamy quality of it. Just feels warm and comforting to me. What a beautiful pic.

  172. Rachelle says:

    #5. Cool Effects!

  173. Tammy says:

    #3
    Love this picture! How did you do that????

  174. Jessica says:

    #1 Good job Chelsea. This shot makes me go back in time. I’m there cradling my own child’s head and looking down on her!

  175. Philip says:

    #3. good childhood memories!

  176. 4! someone commented on the power of a doll–AND that’s exactly what i feel when i look at this photo. esp, since the girl is looking away, it feels like the innocence and unknowingness (i know, totally not a word) of youth is so poignant … but, that doll lets me know that there is something she can always depend on. I LOVE IT!!!

  177. Kari says:

    #2. OHMYWORD, such a beautiful capture…the epitome of ‘comfort’!! Fantastic job, all of the finalists!!!

  178. They are all amazing, but #1’s emotion really caught me.

  179. #1 Oops…didn’t put the number first the first time. Only count me for one response. Love this photo’s emotion.

  180. Daphne says:

    #1 Captured the raw emotions between an mother and her baby…takes me back to those first days when there are so many feelings and emotions of being a new mom, but not being able to get enough of this sweet little miracle.

  181. #4 !!!!!! LOOOOVE it!

  182. lora says:

    #1 but they are all great!

  183. Janine says:

    #4 So sweet! Love the blur. Love everything about it. So dreamy & adorable!

  184. Joanne Yi says:

    #4 – love it 🙂

  185. Kyndle says:

    #1 Wow its amazing!!!!

  186. Drew says:

    #1 It just says a lot.

  187. melissa says:

    #4 Gina.. She is so amazing!

  188. Sara says:

    #4…. I love this image! It reminds me of my own daughters and my own childhood! Wonderful shot! Timeless!

  189. Alyssa says:

    #1, everything about it – just beautiful.

  190. Rachel says:

    #1- so amazingly beautiful.
    this mother’s love flows through the photograph(:

  191. Layne says:

    #1 I agree

  192. Todd says:

    #1 Wow! That is really beautiful!!!

  193. Emily says:

    Very nice! You have captured a moment between mother and child that is so beautiful!! very impressive photography!

  194. Julie says:

    #4

    Reminds me of myself carrying around my “Raggedy Ann” so many years ago…loved the composition of this shot too!

  195. Brittany says:

    #1!!!!

    This photo screams perfection! The photographer did an AMAZING job! If this photo does not win, it will be a crime.

  196. edda says:

    Definitely #4! Just beautiful!

  197. Shannon Radu says:

    number 4. Amazing!

  198. Shannon Radu says:

    four

  199. Kelli says:

    #1 – Love it! Beautifully captured!

  200. Linda S. says:

    #3…….This is the one that jumped out at me the most. I love how even though there’s so much going on my focus was drawn right to the little boycow 🙂 His face shows his concentration on something in front of him and maybe even pensive but he’s waving at whatever it is if not smiling. Tells me he feels safe enough with his hand in Dad’s to walk among the other costumed kids etc knowing he’ll be ok. I also like the streaks on Dad was it done in Photoshop? I’m with Me Ra how did you do this? Nice Job!

    Linda S

  201. andrea J says:

    I love them all, but I have to say that #1 is my favorite. It’s a beautiful image that just oozes “comfort”.

  202. christina reves says:

    #1 beautiful girl and beatiful girl… Complete package

  203. Melissa says:

    #1 Love it, everything about it, the scene, the colors, the warmth it conveys, the photography at work!

  204. Colleen says:

    #1
    I absolutely love it for all the reasons everyone else has said, as well as the description you gave it. In addition, I know the subject, and she is one of the most beautiful people I know – and I’m not only referring to her looks! She and her photographer deserve to win this!

  205. christy says:

    #4…. I love Gina’s work. This image evokes such a peaceful feeling…one of my all time favs and just one of those images that I can’t stop looking at!

  206. Laura says:

    They are all beautiful, but I think I’m going to go for #1 as my favorite. The colors are so warm and sweet (like honey!) and I can feel the love and security it has captured. Lovely!

  207. Sarah N says:

    My favorite is number #4! Such a great shot!

  208. Emily Lewis says:

    #4. I just love this picture

  209. Kasia says:

    #3 – it’s amazing:-)

  210. Tina says:

    Wonderful photos, but my vote would be for #1. Beautiful warmth portrayed, not only in emotion, but in color, tone and depth.

  211. nicki says:

    My vote is for #5. I feel it really tells a story in the motion and the blur. It got me the moment I saw it.

  212. Laurie K. says:

    #4 Gina is such an amazing photographer!!!

  213. Maya says:

    #1 is wonderful! It might just be because I am pregnant with my first child but it really stood out to me. (I loved #4 too!) Everyone did a GREAT job!

  214. Allison says:

    #1-such a beautiful photo with so much emotion of a mommy comforting her baby!! I LOVE it!

  215. Eleni says:

    #4 The texture and blur in this photo is amazing. It makes me want to reach out and touch her.

  216. Tom says:

    Tough choice between #2 and #3… #3 it is.

  217. Devi says:

    #1 – beautiful colours, fantastic emotion and a well-composed photograph in every sense. It tugs at your heart, warms your heart and makes me want to be a mummy.

  218. #1- I like them all. #1 just kept me there. Beautiful.

  219. Toni Elmer says:

    #4. it’s fabulous!

  220. Carrie Murphy says:

    #1 BY FAR!!! This image is so soft, loving, graceful…I could go on. Definitely my vote!

  221. Kathi C says:

    My vote is cast for #4. While all the entries are worthy, I love the overall feeling and story this image tells. I feel drawn into the moment.

  222. Sarah Mc says:

    #4 is my fave! i love the choice of background- so soft & subtle. helps the doll really POP! it is a beautiful image that speaks to me on so many levels… the innocence of childhood captured perfectly. i loved ALL the images… beautiful work ladies!!!!! makes me proud to be a PHOTOMOM!!

    Sarah

  223. Jill Rich says:

    #4 – the composition and the peaceful feeling that this image evokes is awesome. It sends me off to dreamland of when I was a little girl. I love how soft, but powerful it is.

  224. Addie says:

    #4…This image is so soft and reminds me of a time when life was just plain simpler. Remember when the biggest decision you had to make was which doll you wanted to play with? Or which crayon to use? Gosh, if we could only have a rewind for just one day! This is such a comforting picture to remind me of those days. And it sends me back to when my two girls were this little. Oh, now there would be the great idea for a rewind button for a day! Great job to ALL the entries though. They are all wonderfully comforting images. Congratulations ladies!

  225. Kathy T says:

    #2 Tenderness. They were all really cool (wish I could do that!), but I’m a sucker for newborns and black and white. Great job all.

  226. alisha h says:

    #4 is my pick! love everything about it:)

  227. dana j says:

    Love them all. Truly they are all wonderful entries. But I LOVE #4 My Ragedy Ann. The photo just show so much emotion!!! Good luck to everyone!

  228. Sybilla F says:

    Hard to decide. #2 because it captures the bond between the mother and child and the peace and innocence in the child’s eyes.

  229. Abby says:

    #1 is just gorgeous! Not just because I know the beautiful mama and baby, but I have seen other work by the photographer and they are all incredible. #1 all the way!

  230. BETH says:

    #4!!! I still have my Raggedy Ann doll, and she is still COMFORTing!!! Beautiful!!!!!

  231. kay says:

    #1!!!!

  232. Feuza says:

    #3 great job ladies

  233. Hannah says:

    # 4 my raggedy anne. It is priceless and precious. It reminds me of my childhood and love the colors.

  234. Ellen says:

    #1…so beautiful with the emotion of the moment

  235. Shannon says:

    I am in love with # 4. Such tranquility!

  236. Vera says:

    #5
    I love the composition and the movement in this picture. I think it also reminds me of all the cowboy covered feet I have running around at my house.

  237. Anna Beasley says:

    #1 Totally sweet!!!!

  238. Nicky says:

    #3!

    I love the way that this picture makes me want to know MORE! Love it!!

  239. Me Ra Koh says:

    Wow! In 24 hours, we are 1/3 of the way to 750! That’s amazing! Thanks for all your votes ladies. I know your votes and comments bless the Five Finalists more than anything!

    xoxo

  240. Aja says:

    definitely #3 🙂

  241. Susan Petersen says:

    #4 is my favorite! If you have children then you know that a little doll or teddy can be the best comfort. Plus I love how it was edited.

  242. I love the feel of #4. It takes me back to my childhood and leaves me imagining what the little girl will become as she grows up.

  243. Cinda says:

    #4 gets my vote. The blurred background and contrast of colors combined with the sentimental feel of the doll makes me feel happy.

  244. Art Kim says:

    #4

  245. Mel Bishop says:

    #1, love love love it!

  246. LOVE #4…LOVE the simplicity of it, as well as the depth of field with the image. AND…LOVE the composition! BEAUTIFUL image!

  247. Sandy says:

    #1 Absolutely! What a wonderful peeking into the intimate moment between a mother and her child. Just a glimpse of God’s perfect love for us:)

  248. Paul says:

    There is nothing that brings comfort to mind more than remembering what it was like to be held by your mother when you were a child. #1

  249. roberta smith says:

    #1 Love the look of #1. SO sweet!

  250. Dolly says:

    #1 – makes me think of that precious time when you can finally hold the little one you’ve been carrying for so long… and you just want to memorize every feature

  251. #1 takes my breath away! This image is so powerful, it makes me want another little one to have and hold all over again! Instead I will enjoy sneaking in on a tender moment of a beautiful mamma with her precious babe and foundly remember my own days of babe in arms. This image is lovely in so many ways! Wonderful job everyone…Congrat’s on being finalist, every single image has a true sence of comfort and grace.

  252. Beatriz says:

    #4 is definitely my favorite. The hand holding the doll tells it all.

  253. Jaime says:

    #1- a mom waits 9 months to see her childs eyes, her childs nose and of course those ten fingers and ten toes, when you finally have her in your embrace always capture and treasure those moments of memorizing your precious childs face.

  254. Ashley Miller says:

    #1 its a very precious moment

  255. mirela says:

    # 2 is just breathtaking, as you said!

  256. Elizabeth says:

    #4 is my favorite. It is so comfy and warm!

  257. Lauren S. says:

    #2! So adorable. All of them are beautiful but this one is so bright-eyed and perfect.

  258. Marci says:

    No. 4 Super sweet. Makes me think of my little girls!

  259. Lisa says:

    #1 Most definitely! An incredible image that captures an inexpressible moment for any mom.

  260. Jenessa evans says:

    My cote goes to #3 love love <3

  261. Sandy says:

    #1 is a great photo!!

  262. Nicole says:

    I vote for #5. Adore the blur.

  263. Emily says:

    #1 is the best~!

  264. WOW! What an honor to be a finalist! gonna have to vote for my own image… #1. its an all time, forever and ever favorite of mine for all the reasons of this theme and more. thanks for this opportunity Me Ra! I have to say #4’s pic is just precious… very nostalgic.

  265. Renee says:

    # 4 There is such a sweet tenderness to this image, I love how the little girl is holding her dolly. It reminds me of when I was young and how much I loved my Raggedy Ann doll.

  266. Stefanie B says:

    #1. I love the colors!! It’s beautiful.

  267. Katie says:

    I love #1 for all the reasons already mentioned! My vote is #1.

  268. kim says:

    #1!!!!!!!!!!!!!! know and love dearly the lovely lady and her sweet little girl!!!!!!! way to go chelsea!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  269. Amy Ballard says:

    #1 Baby! #1 has got it!!

  270. Kristy says:

    #1 Beautiful photo

  271. Josh says:

    #1 for sure.

  272. Laurie says:

    I just adore #5

  273. Gunters says:

    LOVE #1…..

  274. naomi says:

    #1 love the point of view!

  275. Elisabeth says:

    Love #1 as well!

  276. My vote is for #1. Great job Chelsea!!! Love your work!

  277. holly says:

    #1. Simply gorgeous!!

  278. Jeff L says:

    #1 – BEAUTIFUL!

  279. Brunson says:

    #1 is great!

  280. Christy says:

    #1
    She does an amazing job giving a buttery warm feeling by catching a quiet private moment between mother and child. It makes me feel like I walked in on a sacred moment and I don’t want to interrupt..

  281. Alaska says:

    #1 is just precious….

  282. jonnie cromes says:

    To me photograph #1 has captured the wonderous intimacy of a tender mothering moment. A time in which cherished memories are meld into the mind and the emotion of every mother for eternity. How amazing to have it in a photograph.

  283. Matthew says:

    I would have to say that I like number 1 because of the depth of field.

  284. Julie says:

    #1 is just beautiful:)

  285. jane perry says:

    #1, evokes wonderful memories.

  286. Ed Klotz says:

    I vote for #1 and liked the bond between mother and child demonstrated though the eyes and hair.

  287. Andrea says:

    #1 You can almost hear what that mom is thinking as she holds her sweet child…soooo beautiful!!!!

  288. Sarah Buchanan says:

    I love Photograph #1. It is a beautiful picture.

    Sarah

  289. Becca says:

    My vote is for #1. Love how the focus is on the precious connection happening between mom and baby, and then all around, above, beneath, in front, and behind them is warm and softly focused. There, but not the focus. Beautiful.

  290. Wendy K. says:

    Voting for #1…..I love the content. This is a memory in a picture to be treasured forever.

  291. Janice says:

    #1 I just can feel the mothers love in this picture.

  292. Megs says:

    I like photo #1. It’s very touching.

  293. Debbie says:

    #2 I love the pic it is so beautiful and really like the black and white. What a picture to cherish!!!

  294. Laurie Schraml says:

    Still loving #1–I love the gentleness!

  295. Janet says:

    #1 Love it!!!!

  296. Jill Louvar says:

    #2…..good job Jane!!!

  297. Christi Grove says:

    #1, love the picture, photographer and subjects:) Great job!

  298. Troy says:

    Gotta go with…#1. Rock on.

  299. #1 Fantastic work by Chelsea…as always!

  300. Cara says:

    I vote for #3…beautiful picture!

  301. John says:

    #3 is my vote

  302. Judith says:

    #4, I can smell the sweet grass and hear the girls giggling over something. It brings back memories of when I was little running around with my sister in matching clothes. Beautiful.

  303. Jodi Zimmer says:

    #2, Jane captured a beautiful moment and the black and white conversion made it really stand out.

  304. John says:

    #4 I think this photograph accomplished the task the best. This photograph has the most bokeh by far, giving it a real nostalgic feel.

  305. Kelly says:

    While my heart is with my SOAR sister Christine, I have to go with #1. As a mom, that picture just speaks to me. Great work to all though!

  306. joel says:

    #2 awesome pic.

  307. Carolyn says:

    #1 sweet moment, great color.

  308. Miriam says:

    #1 I think this picture captures a mothers heart. You can not help yourself when you love someone so much, you just have to get as close to them as you can.

  309. Cari says:

    I like #4.

  310. Jane Johnson says:

    #2 Tenderness. It is a wonderful photo. What more can I say?

  311. Sharon says:

    #2. Jane has caught the intimacy between mother and child extremely well giving us the feeling that we are seeing Mom the way the baby might. Excellent work!

  312. Melodie says:

    I vote for #1! It’s such a fresh twist on the standard newborn photography that captures a precious moment between mother and child. Before mom knows it her little one will be too big to hold like this, but she can always remember this time by looking at this photo.

  313. Meghan says:

    Love #1. Beautiful.

  314. Traveller says:

    No. 2 has my vote…the Tenderness, makes me want to be a child again…sigh

  315. Monica says:

    #2 Beautiful, crisp, the shades of black and white are just about perfect, the baby’s open and aware gaze, the calm of her embrace, heart melting. Having said all that I feel guilty for having to chose one, because the final 5 are all great. I have been thinking and looking at all these since they were posted and struggled with my decision. In the end perhaps I am partial to black and white. Most of all, I hope to take photos as beautiful as these. Good luck ladies!

  316. jamie says:

    #5 There’s a story here, I don’t know what it is, but it’s there. It’s provocative, interesting.

  317. Amy says:

    #1 beautiful!

  318. Beck-ie says:

    Love #1. Nothing as precious as a mom and baby moment.

  319. Techo says:

    #2. Tenderness by Jane Wiggins.
    I can really sense the connection between Mom and baby and boy that cuddle looks very comfy.

  320. Karen Talkington says:

    I’m not a mom, so I can’t speak from that side of the picture. But I can speak of a mother’s love felt by a child, and picture #1 reminds me of that same warmth, protection, and intimacy.

  321. Sara says:

    #1 – Love it…so precious!!!

  322. megs says:

    # 1.
    I love the lighting, as well as the love that you can sense from the mom to her baby

  323. Amber says:

    #1~ a priceless moment captured.

  324. Kari H. says:

    #1 all the way. definitely speaks the comfort and love of a mom and her little one. beautiful picture. beautifully done. great job chels!

  325. I LOVE #4! LOVE the simplicity, the composition, and the depth of field and crispness of raggedy ann!

  326. Katy B says:

    #1: I feel almost guilty for witnessing this moment! its just like I’m there with them.

  327. Jordan says:

    I vote for #1. Chelsea does a great job of getting so close to the subject that you feel like you know them and you get that emotional connection. I LOVE HER WORK!

  328. Bree says:

    #4…pure beauty.

  329. Jassy says:

    #1 is so touching!

  330. Julia says:

    #1 I wish I had a picture like that of myself looking at one of my babies. I LOVE it!

  331. Lydia says:

    #2 is my favorite.

  332. Ter says:

    #2
    what a stunning image as are all the other s but #2 stands out to me

  333. Mac McGinnis says:

    #2, Beautiful image!

  334. brooke says:

    #2 beautiful 😀

  335. Melanie says:

    #4 – Raggedy Ann. I like the old-timey feel the photo has because it adds to the comforting feel I think the little girl has when she holds onto her Raggedy Ann doll. This feels like a comforting memory.

  336. Rachel Hamann says:

    #1- I love the visible bond between mom and baby. The more I looked at it the more I noticed the locked in gaze, almost as if the baby is straining toward mom. It makes me think of the precious moments when I hold my baby in that same pose and love almost seems to be a tangible, physical bond holding us right there, until I can’t stand it anymore and I just pull him into a full hug/cuddle.

  337. Kim says:

    #4. It has some kind of retro feel, through the doll that’s sort of ageless, through the coloring. It just speaks to a type of love in childhood that is just being learned.

  338. Stacy Tottingham says:

    #4 – the little girl holding her doll is just priceless. A beautiful picture!

  339. Bobbie Leigh says:

    #2 I can almost feel the soft baby skin

  340. Denise (Lu) Campbell says:

    #2–Jane Wiggins photo, “Tenderness” took my breath away. It totally captures the Love and the Bond between Mother and child. I love it!

  341. Jennifer N says:

    #4, i’ve seen Gina’s work and watched her grow and she is amazing. This image says it all. It captures a dreamy kid-like world!

  342. Yannis says:

    #2 is my choice. Classic and Breathtaking altogether!

  343. Jessica says:

    I would like to vote for My raggedy ann. It has capture the comfort felt by children everywhere when they hold that one special toy. I think it’s amazing!

  344. Esther says:

    1. Nuzzeled and Kissed by Mom! by Chelsea Hudson is my favorite! I’m drawn instantaneously to the love jumps out of the photo….just beautiful!

  345. Linda Meskow says:

    # 3

  346. Katie says:

    #4 – I love Gina’s work. This picture IS comfort – my children all had little stuffed animals they wagged around all day and couldn’t sleep without. it makes me smile. comfort.

  347. David says:

    #2 you can just feel the love between mom and child

  348. Christina says:

    #4-It brought back so many memories of my childhood with the Raggedy Ann doll & the feel of the picture. I love it, awesome job to everyone!!

  349. Sarah says:

    #1. Nuzzeled and Kissed by Mom! by Chelsea Hudson
    i think it captures the tenderness and mother’s love and it’s soft and beautiful.

  350. sylvia says:

    #3!!!

  351. Mona says:

    #3 has it all!

  352. Theresa says:

    #3 – Unique. This photo has it all.

  353. Rachel Clare says:

    Gina’s #4 has my vote!

  354. Michi says:

    Beautiful photo!

  355. Susanne says:

    #4 – I love the vintage feel of it and the composition… It’s just beautiful!

  356. Michi says:

    #2 Beautiful photo! It’s got my vote!

  357. Pops says:

    #2 Excellent!

  358. Forrest says:

    #1 is my favorite. Nuzzeled and Kissed by Mom! by Chelsea Hudson in Phoenix, AZ. Beautiful subjects without showing full face of either. It is the hands of both that are so appealing and warm. The mother’s hands in focus as it is her’s that will hold close for the next several years. But the babies fingers are craving to hold mom but out of focus, out of range and for now dependant on mom’s strength! And she will never let go of her love. You can see it in her eyes. Beautifu!

  359. Noreen says:

    #2!!!!

  360. Celine says:

    #1 beautiful pic

  361. Ryan Beverly says:

    1. Nuzzeled and Kissed by Mom!

    Nice work. Stunning with the hair and lighting.

  362. Rach S says:

    #4. simple comforts of childhood. Sweet photo.

  363. kari says:

    #1
    I was torn between #1 and #2. But number 1 drew me in as if I were in the room with mother and child. All the photos are phenomenal! Great work!!!!

  364. Kathleen says:

    #1 – very tender

  365. Rayann coffman says:

    #1 is the bestest!

  366. Anna says:

    #4, without a doubt!!

  367. Sheila Mckay says:

    My vote #4. Reminds me of my Raggedy Ann, which my daughter now has.

  368. Linda Shaffer says:

    #1!!!! Chelsea’s work is beautiful and full of emotion!

  369. Dee says:

    #4 This picture captures the comfort a child feels when they have that special doll/toy.

  370. jacey cosner says:

    #4 I immediately felt something tender when I saw this image, I love the composition,the depth of field and the processing.

  371. Do you actually believe that is true? You did a good job stating your point, but I think you should put some more thought in this discussion and maybe post an answer to the opposite side of this post.

  372. Cindy Chen says:

    #4 is adorable. Such a sweet image of childhood.

  373. Katie Isaac says:

    #1 Nuzzeled and Kissed by Mom
    This picture is beautiful and I love the lighting.

  374. Katie Coiner says:

    #1 – love the colors and composition!

  375. Rebekah says:

    #1 – Tenderness and wonder all wrapped up in this moment. Lovely!

  376. Jessica says:

    Gina’s #4 is such a heartwarming picture. =)

  377. Susan Keller says:

    #4 – Gina’s beautiful image is both sweet and nostalgic

  378. Gina says:

    #2 so precious!

  379. Karen says:

    #4- I love the brightness of the colors, contrasted with the softness of the overall image. I only wish you could see the kid’s face in it.

  380. Isaiah says:

    #2…that baby is the cutest!

  381. Anita says:

    #2 Lighting sets the mood for the tenderness.

  382. Dan says:

    #2 Tenderness.

  383. Auntie G says:

    Tenderness #2. Jane takes great photos!

  384. Julia says:

    # 3 Super!

  385. beck says:

    #5 … though it was almost a toss up between 5 and 1. I just love how much FEELING there is in what was captured with those little boots, the trampled grass, the light…. beautiful.

  386. Ana Gilbertson says:

    #2 – so sweet.

  387. Auntie Hannah says:

    #2…what a beautiful photo. The connection between mother and baby is so warm. You can almost feel the love through the photo!

  388. Sam A says:

    #2 because the baby is breathing taking

  389. Robbie says:

    #2…..MONKEY MAN!!!! he is honestly the sweetest thing, mother and baby connection is awesome!

  390. Cindy says:

    #2 Tenderness

    I love the softness with the blur on Mom, it really portrays the love surrounding baby and truly shows the “Tenderness” in this photo. Having this in b/w is a great choice. I think what Jane has done captures it all beautifully. Great job Jane!!! What a treasure this photo is.

  391. Jerry says:

    #2 Is a very nice photo–cute baby!

  392. GMA C. says:

    #2 Is awesome and the photo really captures the “Tenderness” between Mom and baby!

  393. Kate says:

    #1! It’s so touching! (All of these pictures are pretty magnificent though!)

  394. Kara says:

    #4 is SPECTACULAR !!
    it’s so soft & dreamy !! makes me want to just step into the picture !
    i think my favorite thing tho’ is how the image is cropped : I LOVE IT ! is it just me? or do you see an adorably round face – framed in soft brown ringlets – looking out into the future =D it just lights my imagination on fire with possibilities of what the rest of the picture looks like.. it’s simply precious =D amazing job !!

  395. Auntie Ernie says:

    #2- the most amazing photo i have ever seen Rylan and his momma are beautiful!!!!!

  396. Kels says:

    #2 LOVE 🙂

  397. c byler says:

    #1 – Divine tenderness and warmth of mother and baby!!

  398. brea says:

    #2. It gives me a warm loving feelin and is just a great photo overall

  399. Jocelyn Lykken says:

    #4 I enjoy photos of children that leave something to your imagination. You experience the type of moment in your mind, without needing to assign it to a specific little one. Very well executed!

  400. Julie Staub says:

    #1 – Love the curls and the eyelashes. Beautiful connection captured!

  401. Michele Faulk says:

    love them all!
    #3 is my choice
    love it

  402. #1 is BEAUTIFUL and my fave 🙂 great image!!!

  403. Ophelia says:

    #1 – Reminds me of how much my mum went through bringing my sis and I up single handedly.

  404. #1 is BEAUTIFUL and my fave 🙂 great image!!!

  405. RJ says:

    #2

    I love the tonality of the photo.. it really emphasizes the emotion. To me, the blurring of the mothers face reflects the infant looking in at himself nestled in his Mother’s arms… and how being a newborn he actually would see his Mothers face and feel secure in her arms.

  406. Sarah C. says:

    #1 – love the blurred curls and how they frame the two of them

  407. sonja ramirez says:

    #4 too Well composed, and just beautiful!

  408. #4. I love the focus on the doll and the picture quality is perfect.

  409. wjmatern says:

    #1 The capture of mother and babe is so warm and beautiful!

  410. Megan says:

    #2 has my vote!

  411. #4…It is superhard to pick just one, but I love the old-world nostalgic feel that this photo has to it in addition to its air of mystery about the faceless little girl…

  412. Meg says:

    #4. Being a girl and having a little girl, it feels so familiar. b/c you can’t see her face it feels like it could be me or my daughter. Love the color contrast of the Raggedy Ann to the rest of the soft touch of the photo.

  413. julie says:

    #1. I love how you captured the emotion here! Beautiful!

  414. Natriya says:

    #1…I love the connection that you see between mother and baby. Like we get to steal a glimpse into their life unnoticed. Beautiful processing too!!!

  415. Heather says:

    4. No. 4 is special in a way that it bring back so much memomries.

  416. Alison says:

    #4 gets my vote! This picture is amazing! It really tells such a great story, almost like a fairytale! Love it!

  417. jen says:

    i’m going with #5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  418. Little Rylan was cooing to his mommy one evening when I was visiting, saying I love you mommy and mommy tells him how precious he is and that mommy loves him too.

  419. Peggy says:

    #4 — Although it’s a tough call. They’re all just stunning!!

  420. Paulette says:

    #3 precious

  421. Debbie Allan says:

    Number 2. I love the emotion

  422. Anne Merolle says:

    #4 the color and the feeling, beautiful

  423. Ryann says:

    #1 really stands out for me! Beautiful framing and focus, and it really captures the “comfort” theme. Great photo!

  424. Amy C. says:

    #2–just a beautiful feeling comes about when looking at this photo.

  425. Kathy says:

    #1 – beautiful picture. everything looks perfectly placed. if only i looked that beautiful holding my baby

  426. Wendi says:

    #2 is gorgeous. Very beautiful photo.

  427. christy says:

    #1 – she captured a beautiful moment between a gorgeous mother and a precious baby

  428. Melissa says:

    All beautiful but I am voting for #4!

  429. Amanda L says:

    #2 sooo beautiful!

  430. Jen Albers says:

    #2

  431. Jen from Oz says:

    Number 1! I love the color, the composition, the emotion! Beautifully done!

  432. SLG says:

    #1 No picture could ever come close to showing a mothers love, this one comes very close.

  433. Angela Ray says:

    #4…..love the whimsical feeling created by the buttery edges and the framing!

  434. Kiana from PA says:

    #3
    Awesome picture!!! 😀

  435. Cynthia West says:

    #2

  436. Debbi says:

    #1…absolutely beautiful picture!

  437. Stacey A says:

    #2
    Beautiful mommy & baby

  438. Summer says:

    I love #5! 🙂

  439. Natalie Johnson says:

    Love #4

  440. karen says:

    4 i just love the framing and it just makes me wonder what they little girl is thinking.

  441. Beth says:

    5. Little Cowgirls!

    I love how you have caputured the girls. Love the colors

  442. andrea deel says:

    # 4. This pic is absolutely gorgeous!!! I love how you can’t see her face-it makes it more dreamlike and ethereal.

  443. george Barker says:

    Number 3 is our vote. The photo is very good. She can take photos for us anytime.

  444. Kristin (Rylans Mom) says:

    #2 I love my baby with all my heart!!!

  445. Theresa Bastian says:

    #4 – reminds me of my own childhood – i still have my very raggedy ann doll in the top of my daughters closet!

  446. Andrea says:

    #2 that is my nephew and auntie!

  447. Ricardo says:

    #2 Thats my son!

  448. tamara says:

    #2

  449. Lacey says:

    #1 for sure! It fills my heart up just seeing it:)

  450. Lacey Suastegui says:

    Photo #1 for sure! It fills my heart up just seeing it:)

  451. Lisa says:

    #4 – Love the contrast in colors, and the sense of comfort that a doll brings to a little girl’s little world…love this image!

  452. SFM says:

    #1 is my vote. This is so precious. Captures the heart of a Mom looking into th eyes of this special treasure from God.

  453. Keith says:

    #1 Shows a mom tenderly holding a special gift from God.

  454. marie says:

    #1 A moment in time. Tender.

  455. Ruby says:

    #1 !!!!!

  456. mary webb says:

    #2

  457. Quintin says:

    #2

  458. Paige says:

    #2, beautiful baby & mom

  459. Krecia says:

    #1 loved the subjects and film treatment!

  460. Joan Cecil says:

    #1. Beautiful! I love it! Just makes me want to hold that baby.

  461. Allison says:

    #1 is exquisite and precious!

  462. Talia says:

    Definitely #2

  463. Birdie says:

    #1! I love Chelsea’s work and this is a sweet, tender photo.

  464. Roberta says:

    #1. A perfect mommy/baby moment.

  465. Brian says:

    #2!!!!!!!!!! Its beautiful!!!

  466. anthony says:

    I love all the photos, but i love number 2 the most, its amazing.
    #2!

  467. Mark says:

    #1 I really like the soft tones in this picture.

  468. Sandi B. says:

    #4 for sure. Love the softness like a dream surrounding the doll and girl. It really draws your eyes there.

  469. Sandi says:

    #4 It is simply gorgeous.

  470. megan says:

    mmm i love number four 🙂

  471. Stephi says:

    #1

  472. Reese says:

    #2 This photo shows how an infant immediately knows the comfort his mother gives. The baby knows his mother from before birth and recongizes her right away as the one who will love and protect him forever.

  473. Gerald says:

    #2 is a great photo, and I would say better than the rest!

  474. Lt says:

    #2 classic

  475. Kailee P says:

    # 2 definetly!!!

  476. Kailee P says:

    number 2! beautiful mom and baby! precious!

  477. Christie says:

    #1 – There is something so unique and special about this photo. Just beautiful!

  478. Carmalee says:

    #4 – I love it, so timeless.

  479. Kristi says:

    #2 – Captures the love and total dependence the baby has for mom.

  480. Freida Hall says:

    #4 — precious, timeless, real, beautiful.

  481. Jill says:

    #2, love the black & white

  482. Cindy says:

    #2, Fantastic photo!!!

  483. Susie Fenner says:

    My vote is for Chelsea’s photo, Nuzeled and kissed by Mom

  484. Dianne Mills says:

    #2
    A beautiful black and white photo of a mother’s love!

  485. Amy Steele says:

    #2, Beautiful photo that depicts a mother’s love.

  486. Jenny Wagner says:

    #2 – Absolutely heartwarming picture!!

  487. Dallas Piccard says:

    I vote for #2! Love the tender feeling!!

  488. Stephanie Gaeta says:

    #1!
    It’s simple and serene. Just gorgeous! Looks like they’re talking to each other…

  489. jennifer says:

    #4

  490. I’m TOTALLY torn between all the images. They each tell such a specific story in such a unique way. But when all is said and done I must cast a vote. So I vote for Gina! #4. It is so beautifully processed. The light is amazing and I love the quietness in her image. Also I’m a huge fan of “chopping off” body parts. 😉 Nice job Gina!! (And Congratulations to ALL the ladies). 🙂

  491. Michelle M says:

    #4- absolutely timeless and a precious memory of a specific time of life.

  492. Donna Martinson says:

    #2. Jane Wiggans’ photo, by far.

  493. Jane says:

    #2 I believe it captures the comfort between mother and child and the depth of field is perfect.

  494. Rebecca says:

    #1 definitely. They are sharing a beautiful moment and we are part of it. You can tell how much she has waited for this moment.

  495. Melinda says:

    #1. My daughter is 9 months old and yet the time seems to have passed more quickley than I would desire and this photo makes me think of some of those wonderful moments we shared, so that the present can be put on hold and the emotions of that memory come flooding back.

  496. Patty says:

    #1 – Chelsea’s work is unique. The subject is beautiful but the photography is even better.

  497. jess says:

    #2 – Absolutely beautiful! What a timeless memory. They are all wonderful, beautiful pictures, but this one just captured one of those priceless moments that made my heart smile 🙂

  498. Hol says:

    #2

    I love how this photo exudes the love and tenderness the mother has for her baby. It’s a great capture of such a intimate moment. The bokeh in the foreground is wonderful as well!

  499. Angela Worrell says:

    #2
    A terrific moment captured in beautiful photo!

  500. Anne-Marie Wood says:

    #2 – The point of focus on the baby enhances the the baby’s look contentment and sense of security while the mother appears dreamlike. Definitely a beautiful display of tenderness.

  501. Maureen Roy says:

    HOLY COW!!! I’m honored to be nominated as one of the finalists! The story behind image #5 is that it was taken on “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” night at our county fair, taken with my camera poised on my knee at ground level, while I was sitting cross-legged in the grass and eating a slice of pizza with my then three-year old son. These were twin girls dressed in matching pink paisley dresses with pink cowboy boots. Their carefree moment caught my eye. I will have to vote for Gina’s photo, thought #4, as it, too brings back my Raggedy Ann days (except mine has a pen mustache drawn on it by my older brother). Thanks so much for the nomination, MeRa–today of all days–you have no idea what a boost this was.–Maureen

  502. Nicole M. says:

    I vote for #4 – tough decision…they are all great!

  503. Kerry Laurenza says:

    #5
    I love it !! It makes you feel the summer heat and smells of summer. I imagine the little girls with braids in their hair and giggling as they run.

  504. Vic Schmerbeck says:

    #1 – amazing photo and connection between mother and child

  505. Jaye says:

    #5
    Love the blurred boots giving the sense of motion as if the girls are running off on an adventure

  506. I truly love them all. The motion in #3 is really stunning! Love the innocence in 4 & 5. #2 is so sweet but I’m going to have to with #1! Love everything about it!!!

  507. crazydaycarelady says:

    #5!

  508. Brittany O says:

    #2 FOR SURE!!!!

  509. Lauren says:

    #3 As far as the assignment goes, Christine captured it well. The clarity, comfort and blur were superior. Well done all of you!

  510. Bonnie says:

    #3 but all are so sweet!

  511. Katherine says:

    #3!

  512. Hrieth says:

    #5
    all lovely, creative and inspired.
    After much consideration,
    I went with the cowgirls:
    Movement, fresh, unstaged, fun, intriguing,
    and all my projections of Tomboys, mischeviousness, independence…

    Love,
    Hrieth

  513. Missy says:

    #5 — Girlsfriends, Sisters, it’s a bond that shares and survives all … love the gigling, yes that can absolutely be heard 🙂

  514. Bobbi says:

    I am intrigued by the almost invisible presence of the parent, the movement and color of the leaves, and the experience for the child..walking into the newness of the unknown, with the assurance of the parents hand.

  515. Lisa says:

    #5 I love the energy in it, and from it. It makes me want a pair of red cowboy boots.

  516. Blake says:

    #5- I just wanted to look at it the longest. Super cute and girly, grassy, Montana!

  517. Beryl says:

    Tough choice but I have to go with #1. Really beautiful moment captured.

  518. Susan says:

    My choice is #1. Amazing and beautiful picture. You can almost feel the connection between mom and baby. I also loved #4 though, as it brought back memories of my childhood. Gorgeous pictures!

  519. stacy says:

    #1 had a power that made me go back. I felt myself really drawn to it and the powerful connection. And I swear, the more I stared at it, the more I felt like I was really witnessing the moment…I could almost see the subtle movements of mom’s hair and hear the soft cooing of the baby. The lingering emotion that I felt is what compelled me to vote for this photograph…but all of the finalists created images that captured something really special.

  520. jamie says:

    #5 i love the boots with the skirts, the warm colors, and the fun of the two of them together.

  521. Kim Blau says:

    #1 – Oh how I wish I had a photo like this of me loving on my babes. Beautiful framing of a touching moment.

  522. NicholeVan says:

    #4 . . . . adore the comp and processing!

  523. Dee Mattix says:

    #2 I love the black and white how precius is this photo!!!

  524. Julie says:

    #2 Beautiful!!

  525. Deb Foege says:

    I would like to vote for photo # 2.

  526. SM says:

    #1 Photo. This is so precious. I love it. Keep those creative juices flowing Chels

  527. Nicole says:

    number one – so captivating!

  528. Jennifer says:

    #1 – I can just feel the love and emotion–it jumped out immediately and left the strongest mark.

  529. Corey Sewell says:

    #1 Love the connection between Mom and baby. Love the curls – they work as a frame but also add to the natural feel of the image. Nice processing too!

  530. Diana Posey says:

    #2 Love how sharp the eye of the baby is compared to the rest of the photo. It has something that draws me nearer to the baby! I love it – simple and captivating.

  531. # 3, says:

    The look on the child’s face is a once in a lifetime memory. I love it.

  532. Iris H says:

    # 3. The look on the child’s face is a once in a lifetime memory. I love it.

  533. Jericka Kennedy says:

    I would like to vote for photo #2…. It captures the intimate bond between mother and child… I look at this picture and can totally feel the mothers love for her child… i love this picture

  534. Lisa Acord says:

    #2
    I love that this shot is so simple and beautiful. The baby is just so precious and content snuggled into Mom’s chest, and you can feel how protective and loving Mom is. It made tears well up in my eyes.

  535. Lana says:

    #4. Love the doll. I had one myself when I was about that age, so to me this says “comfort”. Love the processing and everything.

    All the photos are great, it made the choice very hard.

  536. Linda Raffier says:

    #5 The cowgirl boots rock!

  537. Sherry says:

    I love # 1 it is beautiful!

  538. kristy c. says:

    #2

  539. Monica Crandall says:

    I vote for #2. It portrays such love and tenderness. Alos, I work with Jane and I have seen other photos that she has taken. She is very very talented.

  540. Tina says:

    Love #1. Great composition and feeling!

  541. Jamie says:

    #4 I love that the color of Raggedy Ann is so bright against the muted colors around it. This is a picture the little girl will definitely cherish when she gets older and thinks about the toys that were her favorites.

  542. Amanda Key says:

    #1. Amazing! Love the bond the mom has with the baby.

  543. charley*star says:

    #4 i love the mood captured here, and the composition. it like that the girls face is cropped, yet, i feel like i can sense what she’s thinking/feeling by the way she is holding the doll.

  544. Jeanette says:

    #2 love this pic

  545. KirsiB says:

    #3 very well done, I love the framing and movement, tells a story

  546. Brandon says:

    #3 Best by far.

  547. Trish says:

    #5 – love this image! I want to jump in and see where they’re going…

  548. Amanda says:

    #1 It’s a tender moment between mom and baby, you can almost feel the connection between them.

  549. Jane says:

    #2 has my vote for topic and DOF! Love all the photographs!!! Great job to all.

  550. HMouw says:

    #5!!!! This photographer rocks!e4

  551. Ashley says:

    ugh…i’m so torn between #1 and #4. i love the coloring on both and i don’t have a photo like #1 with any of my babes and i’m a little jealous of it for that reason but #4 is lovely as well, it really jumped out and grabbed me. either one as a mother you would look back on years from now and ache a little. (big sigh)…#4…I pick #4.

  552. Callie says:

    Number 1–what a beautiful soft moment between mama and baby. Seems like you are the only two in the world.

  553. shawna says:

    #1 – you’re right, the framing is wonderful.

  554. Carla says:

    #2 is the one – what a fabulous photo !!

  555. Bo says:

    #5…it makes me want to BE the little girl running…love it!

  556. Matt says:

    I vote for Chelsea Hudsons Pic! The colors & emotion are amazing

  557. I definitely vote for #1 Nuzzled!

  558. Stan M says:

    #5

  559. Jamie says:

    #1 Beautiful picture, beautiful moment!

  560. Justina Doyle says:

    #1 for sure it is a beautiful moment shared between mother and child

  561. Patrick says:

    #1

  562. M.Kensington says:

    #2 . The baby’s calmness and mom’s loving expression seals the deal. There seems to be more of a connection between the subjects in this shot.

  563. Carolyn says:

    #1 Best by far. Love the mother daughter moment.

  564. #1 Beautiful pic… Chelsea is an amazing photographer!!

  565. Cathy Galli says:

    #5 – Just makes me smile, looks like fun I want to run after them.

  566. paulette says:

    #3 Liam’s the one!

  567. Amber says:

    #2 because it is really comforting to see the baby all nuzzled up to its mother.

  568. Michelle says:

    #4! I love the way it is processed. Just beautiful!

  569. Jessica says:

    #1 I love the soft tenderness between mommy and baby. For me it’s about the mommy loving the baby – the way the focus is on her eyelashes and hands. And the hair! beautiful!

  570. pamela says:

    #2 is the image that does it for me. it was a hard choice, though. all are interesting, beautiful, thoughtful images, but the one that speaks most to comfort is one that includes mother’s skin next to baby’s skin. (an aside, recently when i dream/think of the tragedies of the world, i imagine God comforting us like this photo, safe in a mother’s arms.)

  571. Tish says:

    My favorite is number 1! I love the hair on the mom. It is just such an interesting shot. Nice job! MeRa, Brian and kids…have a fantastic time.

  572. crystal says:

    just beautiful!! mom looking into daughter’s eyes!! she will never forget that moment.

  573. daniel says:

    #1 your eye is drawn to the part that is in focus with the focus on the mother’s face and the baby’s face you are drawn to the bond between the two.

  574. Celeste says:

    #1 I love the pose and how you can see baby’s tiny hands in the background while mommy’s bigger hands hold the baby’s head. The golden curls are beautiful as well and really finish the picture off! Beautiful!!

  575. amy little says:

    i love that raggedy ann picture. i love how it is cropped and that it has a subtle vintage look. and how she is standing says so much. i love the story.

  576. #5 My favorite…. I love following them into the picture and the color tone and soft focus are terrific!

  577. Nancy Caron says:

    #5, Maureen you rock!!! I love the color and the focus. It reminds me of time spent at Dunroven Ranch with NSP.

  578. Lori Jenkins says:

    Love the cowgirls – You can feel the image.

  579. I love image #4!!!!!

  580. Amy says:

    #1. It speaks so much about comfort

  581. Tara says:

    I vote for #2, Tenderness. So beautiful!

  582. Sue Christianson says:

    I Love them All! If I have to pick one, it would be #4. I love the softness of the picture. It is so peaceful and so sweet!

  583. TC Christianson says:

    #1 gets my vote.

  584. brinkley_k says:

    maureen roy’s photo gets my vote

  585. Lisa says:

    #4 My Raggedy Ann

  586. Carolyn says:

    #4
    So comfy. So powerful.

  587. laura says:

    #4, I love Raggedy Ann. Beautiful shot~

  588. Cassie says:

    #4, love this image, great job!

  589. #4 the shot is framed exceptionally well and the lighting is beautiful! I love the other photos but this one is so artistic

  590. Stephanie Wagner says:

    #1
    So emotive and sweet.

  591. terri says:

    #1 definitely, although they’re ALL beautiful!!!

  592. Kristin says:

    #1
    I love the look of deep thought as the little girl is preparing to blow out her candles.

  593. #4 Ginas picture is just adorable.

  594. Judy says:

    #4 tugs at my heart strings.

  595. Steve says:

    #4 is a stunning picture!