Congratulations to the Winners of the 4th Annual Maynard Amateur Photography Competition

Competition Overview

MEF was proud to sponsor the 4th Annual Amateur Photography Competition. The competition is a collaborative effort between MHS teacher, John Ogden, and the Maynard Education Foundation (MEF).

"The goal of the competition is to get young people to see their town and the world from a different perspective.  From an artistic perspective. To find beauty in everything we take for granted and frequently overlook." - John Ogden, MHS Communications teacher.

This year’s theme was Maynard in Color. Approximately 50 students from MHS’s Communications classes used both SLR cameras and iPhones to complete the photo assignment.

An independent panel comprised of local photographers and artists, Erik Hansen, Joy LeDuc, and Priscilla Cotter, anonymously reviewed the students’ submissions. They selected the winning images based on their originality and/or creativity, composition, and use of light.

Judge's comments about the winning images include:

1st Place: " This photo perfectly captures Maynard's natural beauty with a masterful use of light and reflection. While it's easier to consider the color of Maynard through more obvious avenues, this photographer demonstrates thoughtful consideration of a quieter, more subdued contemplation."

2nd Place: "While many people have photographed this mural, the addition of the photographer into this quirky mix of characters is original. The photo speaks to the ways in which Maynard is constantly changing depending on who's looking at it."

3rd Place: "I chose this piece because it shows an intentional search for specific examples of color in Maynard. The color is subtle but is an important part of the installation. The composition works well because of the arrangement or placement of the thistles on the trees. This could be an even more effective image if it had been taken on a sunny day with spots of sun on the art."

Competition winners will receive a framed copy of their work, gift cards, and their images will be on display at Serendipity Cafe on the corner of Nason & Main in downtown Maynard, Mass until June 23rd. Thank you to Laura and Johnny Hobson for showcasing the students' work!

Thank you to MHS teacher John Ogden and to the judges for generously donating their time and expertise to the competition. We are grateful for your support!