An object. Is it possible for an object to strike emotion in us? Can it move us even though it isn’t alive? If there is no face smiling back at us, can we still feel a deep connection? After seeing the awesome work from our Top Five Finalists for the Inspirational Object contest, you may say yes to all the above!
If you are new to the blog, let me catch you up.
Way back when, we opened a photo contest for the most Inspirational Object. Remember that, feels like years ago! 🙂
Well, let’s fast forward to today! What better way to start the new year than be inspired by the Top Five Finalists for the Inspirational Object Photo Contest!
You will love these images, but you can only vote for one! See voting guidelines, FAQ, and prize info below.
For now, meet your talented finalists and be inspired!
Finalist #1, 1930’s Piano, by Julie
I wish I could do a post of all the piano images that were submitted b/c they remind me of the baby’s feet images from yesterday’s post. So many of you sent piano images, and each one was different in perspective. Each image was well done! We picked Julie’s as one of the five finalists b/c of the unique angle she shot from.
The piano fills the frame. The keys blur off the bottom corner of the image and you feel like the piano goes on forever and forever. I don’t know about you, but I also felt like I was sitting at the piano. The image composition is that inviting, drawing us in. The post process Julie chose was also well done. The vintage, sepia tones lends to that timeless feeling. But more than the timeless feeling, it makes one feel like the piano is magical, almost weightless. These are just a few things that come to mind when I see Julie’s beautiful image. What comes to your mind? Thank you Julie! Your image is wonderful! Check out Julie’s blog too!
Finalist #2, Asher’s Onsie, by Jennifer
The image alone is striking b/c of the meaning it holds. From a photography perspective, we loved how Jennifer composed this image. There are a couple elements that stick out to us that make her image stand out. I love that the onsie is hanging on the doorknob b/c it adds instant emphasis to how small this little one is. We already know the one who wears this is a baby, but Jennifer helps accentuate that point by hanging the onsie on the doorknob. And what I like even more than the doorknob is the blurred crib in the background. If this was intentional, BRAVO Jennifer! She also shoots down on the onsie to give the effect of it looking smaller and then there is a slight camera tilt which adds a little motion to the image. All these little details combined equal a great image. Jennifer also has a great blog! Be sure to check that out! And now to keep you from suspense, here is the story behind this sweet onsie.
Asher’s onsie is my inspirational object because it reminds me of how big miracles come in small packages. Asher is the son of a friend of mine who has overcome challenges he was born with. He had a heart defect and major open-heart surgery when he was born, and now at almost a year he is free of most of his medication and has a clean bill of health. I myself was born with a heart defect as a preemie twin born at 28 weeks weighing two pounds and two ounces and had life-saving surgery at two weeks old.
Finalist #3, Love and Coffee, by J.P.
J.P.’s image stuck out to us because of how warm his composition was (no pun intended :)). The story behind why this coffee mug is his Inspirational Object will warm you right up. (pun intended :))
My wife and I met in our favorite local coffee shop; I was 24, she was 19–far too young for me. I liked her an awful lot, though, and over the next year we spent a lot of time talking over coffee. Eventually, I realized that she was too amazing to keep at a distance, and so, sitting in our coffee shop, I asked her if she’d like to start seeing me romantically. She said yes, and a few years later said yes again when I asked her to marry me at that same table in the same coffee house. This cup and another like it were given to us by the wonderful owner of the coffee shop. They were the last two remaining of the old style of cups that had gradually been replaced by shinier, whiter cups that lacked the character of the old mugs. I love the chips and the stains in our matching coffee cups–they remind me that, although we’re bound to get banged up a little bit, we’re going to continue to bring one another warmth and comfort for years and years to come.
What did I tell you? Isn’t that a great story! But the story isn’t the reason why J.P.’s image was picked. A handful of you sent coffee mug images too, but J.P.’s soft lighting and buttery, blurry background guided my eye into the significance of this one mug. The lighting and blur played hand in hand in making this image give off a warm energy. J.P., was this window light that you used? I only ask b/c of how beautiful and soft the lighting is. There is also background in the image, but the background is intentionally blurred and the blur almost accentuates the solid colored mug. Even the light colored coffee inside the mug adds to the softness of the story behind this image. I don’t know if J.P. meant to, but it feels like he thought of every detail in composing an image of a single coffee mug. Great job J.P.! Thank you for submitting!
Finalist #4, Tic Tacs, by Ashley
The story behind this image reminded me of Brian and the kids, except we always buy little packs of gum. Not only are you going to love Ashley’s story, but don’t you love her composition of this image? It’s awesome. The low F stop with the tic tacs blurred in the foreground, and how Ashley filled the frame. Great job Ashely! You took a simple object and really brought it to life. Thank you for sharing!
Here is Ashley’s story in the email she sent me;
The tic tac tradition started when I was a little girl. My mom would put orange tic tac’s in my brother and my Christmas stockings at first. Then she would hide them in my bag when I would go to my dad’s house on the weekend as a kid, go on vacation, or leaving home for college. Now, as a grown woman, she still hides tic tacs in my bag when I leave her house from a visit. Over time, orange tic tacs became a reminder of her love and strength when she wasn’t with me. A month ago, my husband and I went to see her for a visit. When I got home, I found these in my bag.
Finalist #5, No Place Like Home, by Yvonne
Red slippers was another popular image that was submitted by many of you. Yvonne’s image really jumped out at us. The sun flare captured in this image added a magic to the shoes. When we think of red slippers we think of the Wizard of Oz and all the magic of the movie. I remember watching the movie as a little girl and having my own pair of red slippers that I insisted on wearing with my white flower girl dress. 🙂 The shoes were magical to me, and Yvonne has done a great job of capturing a magical element through her use of sun flare. Can’t you almost see those shoes tapping on their own? 🙂 I also like how Yvonne filled the frame with the shoes. The background is free of distraction and all our attention is on the magic of the shoes. Yvonne, I would love to know how you set up this shot! If you are comfortable with sharing that would be great! Thank you for submitting your image, and congrats on becoming one of the Top Five Finalists!
There you have em’! The Top Five Finalists for the Inspirational Object Photo Contest! Each on is truly inspiring. Now you have the tough job of voting for ONE!
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!
Please vote only one time for one image. Thanks!
FAQ #2: Is there a Photo Contest happening right now? And when is the Deadline?
Answer: Yes! We picked the theme Simple Gifts Theme right before the holidays. You must send an image that in some way conveys the theme Simple Gifts. The deadline was January 4th, but since I forgot about the contest during my “unplugged” time off, we should extend the deadline. Don’t you think? 🙂 Let’s make the Deadline for Simple Gifts, Sunday, January 25th 2009 PST . Send your images as an attached JPG (small in size) to contest@fioria.us . Prizes will be as good as what you read below!
FAQ #3: What are the prizes?
Answer: Scroll on down!!
Click here for Seven Quick Photo Tips to photographing your own Inspirational Object!
Prizes for the Winning Finalist and the Random Voter Winners!!______________________________________________________________________________________
Don’t forget to vote before you leave! You could be picked as a Random Voter and win a gift card to Starbucks or a copy of Adobe ‘s Lightroom ! 
Yep, that’s right! You heard me say it correct! (but FYI, remember to check back when I post the Random Voter Winners so you know that you’ve won and can claim your prize! :))
In our last photo contest , we had over 487 votes by the cut off time! It was amazing! You all spread the word, and the votes came rolling in! If we clear 500 votes (that’s only 13 more than last time) on this contest , we are going to pick a Random Voter (not necessarily #500, but a RANDOM Voter) to win a copy of Adobe ‘s Lightroom software again!! And then we’ll keep going and pick two more Random Voters who win a $25 customized, cool looking Starbucks card! So that’s one Random Winner of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and TWO more random winners of $25 customized Starbucks cards, if we clear 500!
Deadline for all voting is this Monday night, 5 days from now, 1/12, at midnight PST!! That means we have to clear 500 votes by that time for two Random Voters to be picked and win Lightroom !
Prize for being the Winner of the Five Finalists!!!
Now what about the finalist’s prize! What will they get?
Great question! The finalist will get their choice of one of our 101 Kits or the downloadable version of our Refuse to Say Cheese/Beyond the Green Box DVD series. And then , and THEN (we’re hooking our Finalists up for 2009! :)), they also get to choose between one of two MORE things!
1. Their own co
py of Adobe’s Lightroom Software
2. Or the most unique prize ever, a copy of the newly released DVD “See the Light” by Carlos Baez! Watch the trailer by clicking the title. Carlos is not only a dear friend, but he is also a PHENOMENAL photographer who has years experience in the fashion and wedding industry and is now sharing his knowledge on lighting with the wedding and portrait world. This guy is loaded with tips and strategies on lighting. We just got our own copy of his DVD, and I can’t wait to watch it. Carlos is a master with lighting, and on top of that he has a HUGE heart for teaching people. Just watching him work with his clients is amazing. Your business can’t help but go to the next level with this new DVD. Check out his blog! To purchase Carlos’s new DVD, check out the Photography Mentor store. Retail Price for “See the Light” is $175.
Enjoy! VOTE AWAY!!!
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
To see our day job , visit here.
For more fun photo exercises, check out our popular Instructional DVDs Refuse to Say Cheese , our 101 Kits for starting or expanding a business in photography , click on the words of your choice!
#2, Asher’s Onesie is my favorite. I know this little boy and he is an amazing inspiration to so many people and a shining example of God’s mercy and grace. Thank God for healthy little boys!
#1 The shoes. I love the light.
I vote #2, Asher’s onesie! I was almost brought to tears reading the inspirational story behind the reason the image was captured. “Jesus loves the little children!!”
I actually meant #5, the shoes : )
#3, My wife and I also have a unique connection with our favorite coffee shop, and I have a deep affection for hard-used mugs holding good cups of coffee.
At the least, it looks like a good cup of coffee.
Interestingly, in your full blog, the pictures are not fully there; however, in your RSS feed that I use to read posts, the pictures were fully there. On your blog, on the horizontal photos, the right sides are cut off. I use Firefox as my browser, so I’m not sure if that effects your site, though I’ve never had a problem before.
Regardless, I’m glad I saw the photos fully in my feed reader or else you miss the full effect.
I vote for number 4, the tic-tac photo. I love the contrast with the white and orange, the bokah, and over-all the meaning behind…the “inspiration” behind Inspirational Object. Great job!
The other photos were great as well. Number one really spoke to me. Wonderful perspective on such a beautiful instrument. And I also love all the sparkles on the red shoes.
Overall all though, b/c the focus was Inspirational, I think the tic-tacs win, satisfying all the requirements for the contest.
Kudos to everyone.
I love the ruby slippers, but my vote has to go for #4, the TicTacs! The composition is so creative and I love the clean background.
I pick #4 – great picture and great story. Love it
I love the soft blurry look of #3. Reminds me of that just-woke-up fuzziness before sitting down for a warm cup.
#2, Asher’s Onsie, because it reminds me that we are all born with a fighting spirit and that we instinctually know that life is worth fighting for!
I vote #3. It just screams, “understated!”.
#4. Love the composition and I can’t resist orange tic-tacs.
I vote for #4 (the tic tacs). I love the story behind #3, but #4 is the one that really grabbed me.
#5 FTW!
#3 – Coffee has been my morning ritual since high school. I have recently had to give it up, since I found out I am expecting. This photo not only reminds me of those bitter-sweet, half-awake moments with my own favorite mugs, but it fills me with anticipation for the day when I can resume coffee drinking. 7 months go!
These are all really beautiful!
Hmmm, I think I need a little cheer this morning though and while #3 feels undeniably cozy, I’ll vote #4 Tic Tacs. =)
I am voting for #5…it shows the inner child in all of us. I love the effect with the sun glare, it is just a MAGICAL photo!
#2 – Asher’s Onsie by Jennifer. Beautiful image, beautiful story, beautiful inspiration!
#2-4 are very profound stories but #5 gets my vote because the image itself is magical. Might have something to do with my having two little “Dorothy”s of my own. =)
I love that each choice is compelling for different reasons however that makes choosing that much harder. But I’m choosing #5 simply because I LOVE sunflare! They’re all GREAT though.
#5 Because above all else, there is no place like home. Love all the shots, but this one spoke to me. 🙂
#4 I love the simplicity of the image but even more the story behind it…
#5 – The photo is truly magical! The lighting reminds me of the way the light on stage looks to a performer. I love it!!! I also love the way the flares fill the upper left hand corner of the frame and balance out the way the shoes extend into the lower right hand side. Stunning work!!! :o)
#1 – just love it.
#5 I think it speak to the little girl in me. Although I loved all the images. I always remember orange tic tacs and my grandma.
Me Ra – you might want to resize the landscape images they are cut off on the right size, especially on the tic tac photo.
#2!!!!!
#5 – Truly unique. The picture holds a wide range of questions and emotions. Plus, I just love the sparkle caught unexpectedly in the photo. Great job!
#3–Super cool Mr. Stephens love it!!
#3 – the coffee cup is a very inspirational photo, Mr. Stephens!
i like #3. i am a huge coffee lover and it just really stood out to me.
#4, love the story and the unique way of capturing it.
#3 Really nice picture, the illusion sets the mood, morning light just waking up to hot coffee. Excellent
#3 Great pic. love the story!
i love #3 because of the simplicity of the picture of the coffee
I really like #3
I really like #3! There is nothing better than waking up in the morning and inhaling a nice, warm cup of coffee…then of course drinking it!
#3 I love coffee so that’s why I picked it lol
Number 3 is an awesome picture!!
#3 is a very classy picture which portrays the morning routine of most Americans. It also has beautiful colors included in it and an excellent use of lighting.
My vote is for #2. This one just pulls at my heartstrings. It also reminds me to be grateful for the health of my family.
#3 is just amazing but the story behind it is just heartfelt!!! It is a very romantic story!
#5 is a great picture, all are! But #5 really got my attention
#5 – wow that is an amazing picture. Right up to the shine off the shoe.
#5 I love the magic! How did she get that fantastic sun flare? Though all the photos were exceptional, this was the only photo that moved me want to go and do something today–it made me want to watch “The Wizard of Oz” or pick up “Wicked” again! Not to mention…call my mom! There is no place like home.
#5 – There’s something just magic about it.
#3 is just so heart warming that i almost wanted to cry!! it is so sweet and i hope one day i have the opportunity to share such a sweet story like that!!
#3 is my favorite. i love the color of the coffee, and the chips and stains on the mug.
#3 is very nice, it almost seems as though there wasn’t a lot of work required, and yet it turned out to be magnificent!
#1: such an amazing shot! It evokes so much emotion!
I vote for #3!
my vote is for #5 No Place Like Home
The piano first caught my eye, since I love to play, but when I saw the slipper I instantly felt a warm childhood happiness fall over me. Beautiful work.
# 3 – is sweet. The photograph powerfully conveys intimacy and warmth. The story behind the photos makes it even more touching. Bravo!
#3…My hubby and I spent our first date 8 years ago sipping from the same mugs in that same coffee shop. Thanks for a beautiful photo that reminds me of sweet memories.
#5 – totally warm, sweet, eye-catching and unique!
#4- just love the image and it reminds me of my grandma… who could always be counted on to have tic tacs in her purse.
#5 is great!!
Number four! I love shots like that – so original and clean – really good job!
I love all of the other ones as well – this series was so hard to choose – number 2 was another favorite as well.
#5
This photo captures the essence of all little girls and what it means to be at home! Its Genius!
#5 – It is wonderful and it stands out!
#4 for sure.
#5! It made me immediately remember playing Dorothy in a school play in elementary school and having a pair of sparkly red slippers. The way the light hits the shoes reminds me of spotlights on a stage and it brought me back to being in my bedroom practicing my lines wearing the red shoes and imagining I was in Hollywood! 🙂 Great job bringing the magic into the photo!
I have to go with #2 – anything related to children right now just grabs me, as my son was only born 7 weeks ago.
I LOVE #5! It reminds me of fairytale.
#5! I love the flare.
Sorry about the resizing issue on the horizontal images! Thanks for your patience. If you thought those images were great before, now check them out with being able to SEE the whole image. 🙂 Got to love last minute hiccups. xoxo
#5 is my choice, because I LOVE flare! I am always playing with flare in my outdoor shots, but this was obviously taken indoors with sunlight through a window. Since the subject was Inspirational Objects, and this shot has inspired ME to play with flare indoors this winter, I had to go for it! But I must say, all the shots were wonderful.
photo #2 has our vote! the simplicity is lovely and captures how special this child is. there is no explaination required, no fancy description. it speaks for itself and tells the whole story. awesome job jennifer!
#5 – because with family and friends all around the country, and a hubby half way around the world… there truly is no place like home!
#5. The flare really captures the true essence of the Ruby Slippers for me.
#3: I work in the world of coffee, so I’m immediately drawn to this photo. This could make it into a marketing piece. The focus on the cup is superb. I love how the table and background blend into oblivion. I love the richness in color of the table the cup is sitting on. I love the story that goes along with it as well.
I gotta go ruby slippers #5 I just got an awwwww feeling when I saw it! Sun flare is awesome, shoe placement is perfect. Makes me think of little girls, warmth of home, imagination and journey in finding yourself! Really like it good job!!!
#5
Beautiful light!
Coffee is definately my most inspirational object… or just allows me to actually be productive…
BUT #5 gets my vote… oh my gosh at the sun flare … the shoes just look MAGICAL!!!
beautiful!!
i vote for #4, the tic tac photo. the story made me tear up, and the photo is fabulous. who knew a box of tic tacs could look so fantastic?
While I was drawn to #5 because Wizard of Oz is also my favorite movie (and my sisters), I pick #4 (Tic Tacs). I love the focus, I love how the string of tic tacs leads to the container (it reminded me of Hansel and Gretel following the breadcrumbs to home), and it really inspired me to do something like this with my kids, one of whom (my 14 year old teenager) I’m having a hard time connecting with right now. What’s the jingle from tic tacs…something about a small mint with big flavor…I think it’s a small picture with a big message. Thanks for sharing!
Photo #4 Tic Tacs
I am partial to this one as my son too loves orange tic tac. Love the story love the composition
#2 – I love that just looking at the picture tells a story and I immediately feel an emotional connection to it before reading the story. Very touching!
After scrolling through the images…#5 takes my vote for sure! My daughter has the exact pair of shoes and everytime I see them, they remind me of her innocence and the shoes are just so cute!
I love the placing of the shoes as well as the sun flare in the image. Very well done!
#5 Every girl loves shoes, especially red sparlky ones. Beautiful image!!
Also…I have to say the tic-tac image strikes a chord with me as well. I loveeee orange tic-tacs and always purchase them! I remember all the kids in elementary school would make fun of me because I would always have a pack on me! 😉 I love how this shot is composed so well. Great job!
As a mom… you have to love #2!
#2
great photo with tons of meaning
#5 – Reminds me of my childhood. Love the lighting, and the flare on the shoes!! (#1 was a close second, also reminded me of my childhood. Loved the perspective/angle of the shot). Great blog by the way. Just found you through http://www.spotdotedit.com
#2. Very powerful. Doesn’t need a description to convey the emotion.
All are very good, but I love #5
#5 This was a hard choice because I love the stories that go along with the coffee mug and the tic tacs, but Yvonne’s image of the red slippers really captures their magic. The Wizard of Oz is one of my favorite movies and a tradition with me and my dad. The light in this photo is perfect and delightful!
I vote #5 I think the colours are brilliant and the red of the shoes really shines through well done
I like number 2…lots of inspiration there!
I’m with the others on #2….I even like the way I am pulled into the photo as I couldn’t read the HEART SURGERY text at first, but as I moved in closer and read the words, WHAM! I GET IT NOW!
Great Job Jennifer!
I vote for #2.. So inspiring!
I have to vote for number #4 the Tic Tacs! One of the most coveted gifts from Santa this year at our house was orange Tic Tacs. My kids love them, and I can remeber loving them the same way when I was a child. Thank you for this great image!!!
#2 I LOVE Jennifer’s onesie picture. It is a really nice image and tells a story in one frame. Can’t get any better than that in my book!
I vote for #1 – I love the vintage feel of it!
#2 without question!
Beautiful photos…I have to go with #5. My granddaughter wants a pair of these, she calls them happy shoes!
I’m voting for #5- it has a magical quality to it and the colors are rich. It’s a beautiful photo.
#5, the lighting is absolutely perfect…
My vote is for number 5, the Red Slippers. While all the photos where so great, I just cant deny the magic of that sun flare! love it! great job!
#2!! What a great message 🙂
My favorite is #3..although all of the stories are very touching, nothing beats a warm cup of coffee before the day begins.
#1 – what a fantastic photo!
#5 is magical!!
#5 – makes me think of my little one and also makes me want to get out there and shoot more photos.
#5 Absolute magic. I love the sun flair that just adds to the photo. This is one of the best movies of all time and the photo captures that entirely. It reminds all of us of our childhood…who didn’t LOVE Oz.
#4- This image inspired me to consider doing something insignificant, yet soo very significant for my loved ones!
#2.
This image is inspirational for the parents, knowing what their child went through. And as the child grows into an adult, it will help them understand what they survived and “succeeded” beyond. Maybe some images are more artistic, but this object is more inspirational.
#2
I have been waiting to vote on these photos for some time 😉 and I was not disappointed with the finalists. All of the shots are fantastic, but #2 tugged at my heart a little more than the others. Wonderful job everyone!
I really like them all, but I’m voting for #4. I love the colors and the composition, and especially the cute story! Thanks Ashley!
#3.
This reminds me so much of the time my wife and I spent dating. So often we’d end up on a hill overlooking the city just drinking coffee and talking until late.
Nothing will replace those sunset nights watching the city lights flicker to life.
#3 is an awesome picture! I love the contrast between the dark background and the light colored coffee cup!
#5
I vote #2. It touched my heart and makes me thank God for his little miracles.
#5, that one stands out, it’s beautiful.
Number #5 for sure. Lens flare wins it every time!
I vote for #3, the coffee cup. The lighting is magnificent!
#5 is the clear winner. Ain’t no place like home.
My vote is #3
#5
#5 – Truly inspirational.
I vote for #5. Though all the photos are inspirational and emotional, #5 encompasses what it is to be or have a little girl. Beautifully done!!!
#5 has my vote.
#3- Awesome Picture!
Torn between #3 and #5…I think #3 because it is so simple and straightforward.
I VOTE FOR #5!
I can almost feel the magic in these shoes. They are ready to take off on their own–already sparkling nice job!
#5!
#5 THE RUBY SHOES ARE STELLAR. THE FLARE IS PHENOMENAL. EVERYTHING RUBY SHOES COULD BE & MORE… IT’S LIKE THEY HAVE THE POWER TO WISK YOU INTO A NEW DIMENSION!!!
#5 Beautiful! Love the light coming off the ruby slippers!
#3! 🙂
#5 No place like home…it’s just simply an amazing image!
#3 is the best!
#3..great picture!
I vote for #2, Asher’s Onsie, by Jennifer. I love the photo from a photography perspective and I love the story behind. Thank you God for miracles!
#4…love the color, focus and story! So sweet. Thanks, Ashley!
#5
I love the flare.
#3 – The soft lighting is superb.
#3 is my favorite! It’s amazing!
#3. The story coupled with the picture are beautiful.
#4! Ashley’s mom, Linda, is one of my closest friends, and this is exactly something I’d expect from her! I love it, and Ash’s pic of the tic (tacs) is wonderful. Such nice clean composition.
I’m rootin’ for you, Ashley!
#5 The shoes. They’re magical!
I vote for #5!!!
Hmmmm… tough. I like both #3 and #5…..
I will go with……
#3!!!
#5, amazing image Yvonne
#4 gets my vote.
Oooh, they’re all nicely done, but I’d have to say #5 takes my vote. The sun glare just sets up the magical mood for me! Beautiful, Yvonne!!
#5. This is totally indicitive of a precious little girl as it sparkles and shines. After 2 precious boys, I finally got my baby girl and this picture encompasses all of the things that I am “expecting” from a life with a girl. Beauty, sparkle and shine!
All the images are absolutely gorgeous!
My vote is for #2, Asher’s Onsie. As soon as I saw it, I just found myself crying. This images just spoke to me.
Such a gush of memories for my own little survivor, Cody!
That little onsie speaks VOLUMES. For any parent that has gone through the process and seen their child come out fighting and strong, it is a momumental moment when you can say “he/she survived it and NO LONGER has a heart defect!”
Go Asher and may you continue to stay healthy!!!!!
Great job, everyone, on such amazing images!
I love #5. The glow and sparkle of red ruby slippers is fantastic and magical. It is awesome.
Number 5, I just love the magic!!! However this was a tough decision as I loved the stories behind all of the images.
#4 because I love how the eye follows the tic tac trail to the tic tac box. I love the story behind the orange tic tacs also.
I love image #1. So elegant and classic.
#5 – To me, it represents all of my memories of girlhood: dance classes, sparkles, the “light” of future promise, and Dorothy, a heroine for the ages 🙂
#1 the piano
I love the moodiness and the depth of field.
#3 “Love & Coffee” get my vote. All the photos are amazing though. I love this one because it is so inviting and makes me want to sit in a cozy coffee shop just sitting back visiting with my hubby or a friend. Absolutely LOVE the story behind this shot as well!! 🙂
i love #1
#4
I have to tell you it was very difficult to choose. I was struggling with what am I basing my decision on – the image or the emotion. If it was the image I would have selected 3, because i just love it. But since the topic was emotion I decided to go with the image that stirred the most emotion in me, #4. They were all great, congrats ladies for making it to the finals.
#4 – love the tic tac story. but #2 certainly tugged at my heart. but #4 won me over.
#5 Magic!
#5–that sun flare is complete magic!
I like #5.
I vote for #2 because my first son was born with a severe heart defect and unfortunately he wasn’t a survivor. I saw this and was so happy for that little boy. So I guess my vote is for sentimental reasons.
Susan
I liked Finalist #2. I instantly got goosebumps on my arms when I saw this picture. It said alot with out any story.
#5 hands down! Magical!
# 1. The piano seems the most universal of the objects and also the most personal to me. I’m just sure I took weekly lessons on one that looks just like this. The timeless post processing just adds to the reason for my vote.
#5
#2 – “Asher’s Onesie” – I’m the mom of a 26 weeker so it had a major emotional impact on me! My daughter’s time in the NICU inspires a lot of the things that I do, including going back to school to become a nurse.
I love #5, the lighting is incredible, cute idea, love how the red is deep and blurry at the same time.
I have to vote for #4 “Orange Tic Tacs” because of the originality of the object, the composition and framing of the image, and the overall exposure! Well done!
#5 (the shoes) I just love the lighting and the composition.
#3 gets my vote. This guy has a great photo, and a great story to go along with it.
#2 hands down! I love the picture, especially with the crib in the background, and of course, the story behind it has so much heart.
I vote #4…. I love the pic and the story… it’s the complete package…
I vote #4. The lighting and everything is just beautiful including the story. Wow u deserve a standing ovation.
It shouldn’t have taken me so long to decide, but it did.
I just keep coming back to #3.
Beautifully done.
#2! It is precious! Love the story surrounding it.
#1 I am a pianist and have a deep appreciation for this instrument. I love the photo – just beautiful.
UH!! How on earth can I pick from SO many beautiful images!! Wow. I’ll go with number 5 since home is my place of inspiration. Great job!
#2 My son was also a premie, we were told he might not make it through the night. He survived in spades, and is now a bustling 9 year old.
This image tells a story without ANY words….That is hard to do.
#5 – when i saw it, i just went, “aaaahhhh!” i love the red shoes, i love the flare – it looks like magic! and i have a 3-yo, so i totally get it. 🙂
O wow….No Contest!!! #3 wins hands down. i mean seriously… tic tacs…come on. and pianos are so overdone. but the coffee just touches me. such a sweet story and a beautiful picture. He must be a profesional!!!
Hmmm… all five are good and though I love the coffee story, I am going to go with the tic-tacs as my #1 choice.
I vote for number 5…please. RUBY SLIPPERS reminds us all that there is no place like home. No matter how far, how old we are home is only a memory away. Yvonne shows great depth in her photo and made me instantly think of home. Just goes to show that home is in what you see and remember. Making people remember, now that is hard to do!
#5 is clearly the winner that stands out from the crowd. There is no other winner!
#1 – I love to sit down and play and sing on the piano with my family. Beautifully captured.
Voted for # 5!
#5!! I would love a copy on my daughter’s wall!It is magical!
# 3, The Mug. It’s perfectly blurry
# 2, I really like this one, and I love the story that goes with it.
[…] Me Ra Koh Photography Blog » Time to Vote and Clear 500 on Your … […]
#5 Those shoes make me want to be Dorothy!
#2 – touching story and picture
I love love love #5. It is MAGIC! You did a fabulous job. I also like all the other posted entries. Great job everyone and I enjoyed all the stories too! Thanks for sharing.
Dinea
#3 takes the cake, or the coffee.
I vote for #2. Seems to have the most depth in meaning.
#5 Evokes “Wizard of Oz” and who doesn’t like those memories?
#2 love it!
#1
I love the softness and “old feel” to that image…reminds me of something I’ve always wanted to learn to play since I was a little girl.
Odd – I can’t see photo #1.
#s 1 & 4 are my favorites, but my vote goes to #4 – the tic tacs. I love not only the image, but the story too. Great job!
#5
#2 Hands down! Maybe more so because I am Asher’s grandmother, and lived through the experience and story the picture tells. God sent us a miracle and His love shines through Asher everyday.
#5, the light is amazing and truly magical
#2 For sure! That is my son’s onsie. He is a year old now and is doing great. I am so thankful to God that Asher is still with us. He smiles everyday. I cannot imagine life without him.
#4. I love the tic tac story and it inspires me as a mom to do something like this for my kids (reminds me of the great children’s book, The Kissing Hand).
Number one is my favorite because of the way it looks old. I also really like number five because of the sun spots.
I vote #2. Looking at this picture it reminds of the years I was a CNA at San Diego Children’s Hospital in the IMU/ICU Unit. Everyday that I went to work made me realize how blessed we each are every day that we wake up. I was always amazed at the spirit of the children and how they showed me how to appreciate even the little “miracles” we are given each day.
I vote #5 because when I looked at it, instantly the song “Any other name” of Thomas Newman began to sound in my mind and I felt really peaceful.
I vote for #2. Just by looking at that picture I can see the story and it makes me teary eyed and emotional.
#5 gets my vote. I can see the magic.
#2- What could be more inspirational than a newborn surviving heart surgery? As a parent myself, the story behind the picture makes me want to hug my child and thank God that she’s healthy.
#4 b/c i like the story and the spunk of the photo =)
but really… they’re all great.
#2–but a profoundly difficult choice. I am particularly moved by Asher’s Onesie, largely from the story behind it but also because of the details that emphasize the small child behind it.
I LOVED #3 as well and got all warm & fuzzy with the story. So sweet. The piano is lovely and the perspective with the sepia tone finish are gorgeous choices. And please please please turn that spectacular ruby slippers shot into a poster! Anyone who loves the Wizard of Oz will just faint–love the sun flares!! 🙂
#2
I love all the stories behind the other photos, but #2 stands alone the photo itself tells a story.
I vote for the coffee mug – so cozy.
#5 great photo
#5
I vote for #3, the coffee mug. The story is charming and you can just see fingers moving over the nooks and crannys in the cup. What a great symbol of life and love.
#5 gets my vote. It is a beautiful majical image!
#5 – Reminds me of my husbands favorite all time movie… The Wizard of Oz! Its beautiful!
# 5 gets my vote. I love the lighting, the arrangement on the effect and the illumination on the shoes.
#5…what a FABULOUS job with the light!!!!
#3 for me :oD
I love that JP and his wife has something tangible to remind them of falling in love. I love that they have a place that is “theirs”. I love that JP realizes that the “scratches and dings” that we endure give us the character that makes us special and uniquely “us”! This picture reminds me of all the hours I’ve spent at coffee shops building relationships with dear friends.
#5 – there’s no place like home. love the image!
#5- I Love the light and made me instantly think of home!!!
I vote for #5.
There are a lot of reasons.
That one just popped, I love the pictures, and last but not least, it reminds me of my Mom, because she LOVES the Wizard of Oz! 🙂
#5 – it is true… there is nio place like home!
I vote for #5
It;s the most standout of the pictures, think the light was captured perfectly and like the statement, really brings out that feeling of OZ to the picture.
#4. The tictac photo jumped out at me. Their color leaping off the white background as they are casually rolling across the surface. It has a relaxed but reliable feel to it. I love the depth given from the ones outside of the container but am soo glad that some were left in the container as well. Awesome photograph.
#5…The Ruby Red shoes. Not only is the image magical (I really would love to know how it was shot), but they make me wish I had my old ones from when I was a kid! Bravo to everyone though, all were so awesome!
#5 gets my vote–the sun flare & the sparkle is magical! the photo conveys so much energy & joy! kudos to all the finalists for amazing photos with such wonderful stories & meaning.
#2. Definately.
I vote for #5 really enjoyed picture there is no place like home.
#3 – but what a hard decision! The pictures are all so different and each evokes totally different feelings for me. The coffee just feels so *honest* – that is the best word I can think of – and that is why it is my first pick. My second choice would be the piano, which is stunning.
#5 – They way the lights hit the shoes makes them appear so magical.
#4
#1 Beautiful!!!
#5! #5! #5! I looooooove everything about it – the sun flare! WOWZER! All of the images are amazing, but #5 takes the cake. Extraordinarily good – it’s MAGICAL! 🙂
I too met my honey in the coffee shop that I worked at… With that said I must vote for #3!!
Number 5! I LOVE the sun flare and having a little girl, I completely understand the importance of sparkly shoes.
#5
#1 i love because it looks like an old photograph and the post process was well thought out.
#2 i love because it evokes tenderness and emotion.
#3 i love because it has a wonderful stillness about it.
#4 i really love and it was a tough call. it love the minimalist look and it was just set up perfectly with the white background and the placement of the tic tacs.
#5 really stands out to me. it’s not the glitter, though it would have been easy to rely on that to create something special. the sunflare is amazing. but also i love the blue in the background and how nice it frames the sunflare and the sparkle of the red shoes- just magic.
nice job and conratulations to all of you- you’re all winners 🙂
#5
#2 Asher’s Onsie. I love the picture composition (esp. the crib in the background). While I could guess about a story on the others, this one needed no explaination; it speaks inspiration for itself.
Number 5 is my favorite because I love the wizard of oz. The photo was everything you said, mera. How the background didn’t draw away from the shoes and the lights made it look magical. very nice!
I vote for #5. I like the sparkle!
today, itz #5!!!!!!!!!
i love the razzle dazzlem feelin i get from it….
*smile*
#5 There’s No Place Like Home. I LOVE sunflare. Great feel captured here!
#5 ALL THE WAY!! Good job, Yvonne!
I vote for #5.
#4 #4 #4
Love the composition of the tic tacs and the aperture that you chose…well done! And the story behind the tic tacs brought tears to my eyes…I love your momma!
I thought I would vote for my own photo, but I love #5 too much! Your picture just SINES Yvonne!
#1 makes me feel so much emotion of times past
#2 is a very wonderful story and I love the crib in the background
#3 looks sooo buttery 🙂
I felt honored my photo was chosen among such wonderful photographers!
5 – It is beautiful
#3 The neutral colors, the warmth. Would look great in a huge size in a coffee-lover’s kitchen.
#2 is my favorite!
#1 the piano keys, classic
#5
All are great images.
#5- It’s beautiful, love the flare!
Aaack–how do I choose?! They are all AMAZING–such incredible work! The lens flare in #5 is unbelievable—so sparkly and beautiful, but I have to choose #4. I love the quiet simplicity of the image, and the composition is incredible, not to mention the sweet story behind it!
They’re all beautiful in their own right— so well done!
#5 I agree the sun flare brings magic to the already magic Ruby slippers. My daughter had a Wizard of Oz party last year and Dorothy came while we were gone and left her Ruby slippers at our house. Beautiful!
I love all of the photos and the stories behind them…but I am voting for #5. It just feels magical.
#2 is my fave……… It reminds me of how in the Biblical Old Testament, the Israelites had to set up for themselves “stones of remembrance” to remember all that the Lord had done for them, their fathers, their grandfathers etc… whenever they passed by one of these pillars of stones, they were to stop and remember and tell the next generation… I find that I, too, need to have my “stones of remembrance” in my life, cause its just so dang easy to FORGET the good stuff in, the “miracles” in our lives in the midst of the bad/hard stuff and even more the mundane.
#5 – I loved them all but the way the Ruby slippers glistened in the sun was just phenomenal! They drew me in right away and I could almost imagine being a little girl again, trotting around pretending to visit Oz. Great job everyone. I am seriously inspired now to find an inspirational object and start playing!
All of these are great, but my vote is for #3. I can almost smell the coffee! Love the composition and lighting.
#5 Love the way the shoes glisten…….very pretty
Definitely #2—Heart onesie
I love the ruby slippers, but number 1 has my vote! Beautiful composition – love the light.
This is hard cuz they’re all so good!!
The story of #3 is amazing. It made me tear up.
I also got teary at the Tic Tac story (I’m a mess!)
but I have to vote for #1.
It’s just dreamy 🙂
#5!
#2. Definitely my fave.
#5 most definitely!
absolutely love that flare against the dark background and the intense sparkle of those shoes.
all great pieces, but that one stands out to me the most 🙂
#2! Amazing!
# 5 The shoes!
They are all amazing but I’m choosing #3 for both the photo & the story
Wow. This one again is very difficult! They are all wonderful in their own way and inspiring as well. The stories behind them are incredible…but my vote goes to #5. It screams its own story so loud…just by one glance. And tho it has its own meaning to the photographer, it has I am sure an inspirational meaning to most in some way I could guess. Maybe it is because I am a mommy of two little girls as well, and have these shoes laying around my house. But they jump out of this photo and beg you to “listen” to them, if only for a moment!
Perfect!
#1. This is a hard one though! Love the story behind the mugs too.
#3, visually it makes me want to have a cup of coffee. It looks like it could warm me up on a cold day. I also loved the story how somthing so mudane could have so much meaning!
Number #2
Asher’s Onesie is the most inspirational to me. To know that this sweet lil’ guy has been through so much and come out on top reminds me what a big God we serve.
# 5. simplistically dramatic.
#2 gets my vote…children are such an inspiration and the fact that such a little thing has undergone such a procedure is too much..I would be thanking God every day…
#3. Everything about it is absolutley beautiful. Artistically it is simple, elegant, charming, warm, and creative; plus, the story is so cute and touchinging. Not to mentiont the fact that I consume about 25 cups of coffe a week, so the subject definitley strikes a cord with me.
Beautiful
Honestly, I can’t really say why I am voting for #1 (since they all are so great), but it just made me feel alot of different emotions. Sad, almost lonely, but also a lonely that says “I’m lonely, but I’m also strong, magical and beautiful, just come play me and find out”. Geez, I hope that doesn’t sound corny, but I ALWAYS go with my first feelings when I look at a photo. Great job!
Put me down for #3, “Love and coffee.”
Simple, classic, well composed: a refreshing rebellion against the trendy, HDR, faux-vignetted, over-processed imagery that seems to get tossed about the internets all too often.
The color palate is understatedly monochromatic. It is warm, but seems genuine and familiar. The lack of color contrast allows the composition and tonal range to really come to fruition. Specifically, the handle of the cup effectily redirects my wandering eye back to rest on the coffee, where it belongs. And the coffee needs this graphical assistance, considering the high contrast of the mug that it must contend with.
Add this it is executed with a soft focus, and this submission is brazenly offered. Very soft images might not typically grab the eye with aggression, but this one holds mine. Combined with the story, the softness connotes a nebulous quality not unlike love itsself: difficult to define, but most undeniably there.
#2 Asher
We are getting ready to have a lil baby girl…and I can’t even imagine what it would be like to have to go through this with your little one…just simply an amazing miracle!
#2
I love it! so sweet!! great angle:)
They are all amazing photographs. It’s so hard to choose just one. The coffee one just makes me want to snuggle up into my couch and chat with a good friend. And the onsie story is so inspiring!
But….the one that has stuck with me since I first looked at these yesterday is #5, the shoes. They seem whimsical and bring back so many memories of my childhood. I love the lighting on them!
#5 was the best one!
#5 Love this photo…All little girls need a pair of red sparkly shoes. 🙂
#4 WOW. Love the image and message. Very moving!
#5
I love the sunflare, the sparkle, the magic and the joy behind it. It makes me want to get up and dance.
#5
All of the pictures are beautiful. But the sun flare really just struck a chord with me. It reminds me of the sparkle in my Daughter’s eyes when she is excited and fully invested in her imagination.
#4
I thought all the pictures were very well done but the Tic Tac composition, use of the entire frame moving your eye from left to right with a feeling of depth and dimension and the colors used were especially well done. The story warms the heart and inspires moms of all ages to think of clever, timeless ways to say “I love you” to their children. GREAT JOB ASHLEY!
#2 gets my vote
My vote goes to #2! The shadows created a natural frame that kept my eyes really focused. I was amazed at how emotional I felt looking at this picture even though I have not had a personal experience this severe heart condition. Beautiful job everyone!
All of them are wonderful, but #5 intrigues me most! Good job to everyone!!!
I always choose the photo without reading the stories because I want the image to do the telling and thought that #5 did a fantastic job of that. (Not to mention the sun flare rocks!)
Are those Target’s ruby slippers btw?! 😉
#5 all the way, the shadows and highlights are amazing and the flare is to die for. So much warmth and drama in one shot!
#2, Ashlie’s Onesie created the most emotional response. It was as if you were peeking in the door, looking at the message on that onesie, and overwhelmed with gratitude that this little guy would be safe and sound in the crib beyond. I think it is so powerful because it seems to be a whole story in one image. Bravo!
Even though all the entries are wonderful; I vote for #5!
#2 – that onesie looks like it’s been washed and worn a lot, that’s a good thing!
#5! Love the lighting and the mood it conveys.
I love number 5
#5!
Great job everyone! Such magnificent portraiture. I love numero cinco…5!
#1! I love piano pics, and I think this one is amazing! All the pics are great, but my vote is in!
#5. I love the way the light shines on those magical shoes. Yvonne did a fantastic job!!
I looooove number 1 but I am going to vote for #5, the shoes. I can’t even imagine how much she must have dipped and dodged around trying to get the bright light juuuuuuuuuuuuust right on those shoes. ♥
I also love that we have a final 5 from a guy!!! His story made me tear up. My fall-in-love story doesn’t have to do with coffee, more like Jet A. 😉
#5 for me – my first comment is awaiting moderation. 🙁
# 2 I think I posted my comments on another link, but I wanted the photographer to know that I really appreciate this picture. The onesie in this photo really captures emotion and meaning that any parent can understand. I like the angle the photographer used in taking this picture, and I especially like how they used the light from the room to center on the heart. Great job!
#2 – love the teeny-tiny onesie and the meaning it holds
#1 I love the composition of the full frame shot, and the post processing.
#2, asher’s onesie!
It’s a beautifully composed shot but even more inspiring is the story of the little one behind the shot. Little ones should never have to go through things like that, and yet they are always so much more brave and brilliant about having to than we adults!
These are all so good it was hard to pick! But i vote for #4 because it reminds me of little things that my mom would do for me… like on my first day of school gave me a penny and told me if i get sad or miss her just to hold it and think of her. she did stuff like this all through elemenatary school. =)
#4
as a mom, i love the idea of being there in simple ways when you can’t be there in person. what a lovely tradition~
My vote is for #4. Love it!
#2…so precious.
#4 I love the tictac story, and composition… Great job!
I really like # 4. the story is so sweet.
#5 – It really evoked a little spark in my spirit! It is just magical! Great job everyone! It was so hard to choose!
#4! I love this photo… and love the story behind it even more. Inspires me to think of little ways to bless my children.
#2…so inspirational.
My favorite is the piano #1. Music is joy.
My first time here…thank you for your words of inspiration! And I love the Thailand pics, reminds me of home…
#2…makes me ever so grateful that my three boys are all healthy. Makes me want to hug them a little tighter and longer.
#5 the shoes.
They were all beautiful. I’m so impressed! #4 wins my vote. Something so simple that means so much…I could just feel the love.
I hate coffee, but I’m still voting for #3. Great shot and great, romantic story. 🙂
#2– I voted for this picture because it encompasses a big milestone for such a little guy. How precious are our little ones and this picture says it all.
#3 Is very inspirational and coffee causes many people to survive.
#3 ALL THE WAY! I LOVE IT!!!
I like #3 since it’s something many people can identify with. Just the picture itself warms you and the contrast of the dark background with the white mug is nice.
They are all beautiful and inspirational photos…but I have to go with #3 as well. What a wonderful picture and story! Makes me want to go to my local coffee shop…
I think the one that stands out to me is #3. There’s something about the story and the way the coffee cup strikes me that makes me want to go write a movie script.
#3 is so inviting. I want to grasp a hold of the coffee and start drinking!
I really am impressed with all of them but I”m really drawn to the coffee mug #3. Just looking at it reminds me of how I feel cozying up to a cup of coffee and a good friend or a good book.
#2. Love the meaning behind the little onesie.
I love #3 (coffee mug). Looking at it makes me want to have a relaxing day with a cup in this chilly weather.
#3 is my favorite!
#3
#3 is simply beautiful! Coffee is so complex, yet simple!
#5 – this was really tough, I loved all of them. I went with #5 because of the beautiful composition. The sunflare is amazing.
#3
#3 I love the story behind the coffee cup.
#4–Great story Ashley! Very creative photo, loved it.
#3
I had the pleasure of serving hot coffee in chipped mugs to J.P and his lovely wife Wendy for months before they were married, watching the evolution of their love and commitment over cups of java and curry chicken salad sandwiches 🙂
Their story is indeed beautiful, and so is this photograph.
#3 for sure…such a profound romantic symbolism in such a simple, beautiful image.
#4
It just truly shows that the littlest, least expensive gestures towards others leaves such a lasting impression and great memories to cherish!!
#4 FTW
#3. I love coffee and I love happy marriage stories.
#3 coffee mug – conjures warm feelings
I vote #3. Beautiful story with a beautiful picture.
#3! Such an endearing story! Hopeful for us singles. :o)
#3. In a world as crazy and mixed up as ours is, we can stop, take pleasure in the simple things, and find our peace there. This picture inspires one to celebrate the little moments. No disposable cup for on the go chugging – this is a comfortable mug that fits just right in your hand and has a patina born of years use. It’s made for sipping and relaxing and it’s beautiful.
#3
#3. I see my very own affection for coffee in the soft, fluffy edges of the mug.
#3 It’s just a great shot.
#3: beautiful image, beautiful story.
i’ve got to go with #3 on this one.
I Vote for number 3!!! The lighting is astounding.
#3
Great picture, makes me want to go have a cup of coffee even though I don’t drink it.
#3 – I love the haziness and soft focus of the image. It makes me think of fog and when you are in love, they way it seems JP is, the whole world is in a fog to you.
#3. short and sweet
Gotta be Number 3… I mean you already pointed out some of the most fascinating points about this picture, the technical aspects that almost seem impossible to gather all on one shot and the overall simplicity that speaks to everyone who has ever held a coffee mug. But the real reason why this photo is better than the rest (no offense to any of the other photographers) is because it relates to what I refer to as the human element. If no one smells coffee, feels relaxed, and can almost taste it after viewing this picture…you cannot be alive. This is what photography is all about, bringing photos alive. And I’m sorry, but this picture does the job more so than the other 4. Great job with this one and I hope to see more from you on this blog, J.P.!
i absolutely love the coffee mug pic so that’s my vote. love the light and how inviting that mug of coffee looks!
#2 immediately. Not only is it an inspiration to her, but instantly drew me in to become an inspiration to me as well. Loved it!
#5 The ruby red shoes. It really captures your eye. Beautiful work.
#3- beautiful, the fuzziness of morning.
#3. Is lovely.
#3. Awesome shot. Draws me into the scene where I feel like I’m invited to sit down and have great conversation over good coffee.
Yvonne’s shoes! they are mezmering; just like it would be through a child’s eyes: the position of the shoes, just waiting for a child to pick them up and enter a magical world, full of enchantement and “lots of sparkles.”:)
#3 – Coffee shared between two people in a special cafe are treasured moments. This photo captures it!
# 3 the coffee mug. aside from its clear aesthetic appeal, i like how in the haziness of the morning, the photo is focused on the handle of the mug. it relays to me the warmth and comfort brought by clarity in something (or someone) to hold on to.
#4 I love the way Ashley used the space, didn’t just photograph the tic tacs in the box, she didn’t use a full box of tic tacs and I loved how she spaced them throughout the space…very creative! I also loved her tic tac story…very touching!
#4 The coffee mug is inviting, and conveys a great deal of warmth. Also, the story behind it is awesome,, the description of the old ‘chips and nicks’ adds meaning for me.
#3 Apologies for my numerical disinclination,, my previous vote was supposed to be for #3 (the chipped coffee mug)
#3 Mr. Stephens I love the warm feeling the coffee cup gives me. I can just imagine pouring hot water into it and mixing in some cocoa or cofee. Also how sweet is the story behind it!!!
#4 – It is nice to remember what is really important in life and how simple things can mean the most.
I vote for #2 because it tells a story and has many sub-subjects to look at.
All the photographs are wonderful, and the stories behind them are touching. The Tic Tac story is my favorite…reminds me of my Grandfather, who always gave me the WHOLE ROLL of Lifesavers..not just one! But as far as my favorite photograph, I’m going to have to vote for #1, the piano. Very striking!
#3 Good Luck J.P.
#3. awesome.
# 3 is my favorite.
My Passion for coffee is not the only thing that won my heart towards this amazing picture. The lighting is fantastic and captures the same excitement I feel every time I walk into my local coffee shop.
#3 – Photography is limited as a medium to strictly visual stimuli, yet this photograph extends to engage all five of my senses and thus allows me to occupy it. I appreciate the careful craftsmanship it must take to create a spatial experience with a two-dimensional medium. I am impressed with the skill employed to do it so simply.
#3. the limited photoshop enhancing, you can really tell that the original image is unique and quality without needing manipulation.
These are all great but I’m really fond of #3, the coffee mug. It has a pleasant soft tone, but what sells me are the little abrasions on the lip of the cup, above the handle. And this particular cup has (hold on)…..yes… just about the right amount of half & half. Awesome.
#4
#3 Something about the picture is so deep that I could just sit staring and contemplating over it like it was an actual cup of coffee
# 3 Coffee is has seen me through many a late night study session, hang over, or casual outing with friends. this pictures is great because it shows coffee at its best- in an old, chipped, friendly mug and not in a starbucks cup!
NUMBER# 3 all the way!! Beautiful photography, and even better story to back it up!!!
#3 is amaaazing. I’ve never seen a simple coffee cup look so good.
#3 the coffee cup.
perfect.
#2. That was the one picture that hit my OWN heart. It made me think of the parents and the son and imaging all they have gone through.
#3 – love the little chips on the mug
I definitely vote for #3 the coffee cup!!
#3 – Coffee, Black, Lots of It.
#5.
Definitely the shoes. They look so magical!
#3 JP’s Coffee Cup
#5! I love the light on the shoes! It’s gorgeous!
#3 JP’s Coffee Cup
Simple, Solid, Special, Sincere
I vote #3, the coffee mug. A beautiful story that becomes more tangible through the picture!
#3 DEFINATELY!!!! There’s no contest… He’s an awesome photographer!!!
#3
This guy is really good! I love the fact that he put his heart and his story into the picture. The blured background really helped the photo.
#2
Just looking at the photographs first…this told a complete story in and of itself. Very tough to accomplish!
My daughter will be 7 months old on Monday. She was born at 26 weeks (just a pound and a half) and spent 135 days in NICU before coming home. After her four surgeries, I can completely identify with Asher’s mom. Those scars are badges of honor, aren’t they? Our miracle babies are something special!
We’ll say an extra prayer of thanksgiving tonight for Asher’s good health. 🙂
#3. Beautiful image, beautiful story.
#1
Love the tones and overall emotion captured in the photo.
#3! I collect good pictures of coffee and this one is exceptional. I think I’ll go make my third pot for the day. =)
#3 – This picture captures one of the pleasures of life and shows its simplicity and beauty. The story adds to the picture. Reminds me of how often the simple things in life even when not perfect are the best.
#3 –
The story is so touching – there’s a special place in everyone’s heart for memories of the early days with the one they spend the rest of their lives with. The composition of this photograph – the story and the background/lighting – is one of the most beautiful I have seen.
#5 Magical!
#3
i really love the simplicity of it — it’s just a plain white coffee mug that has clearly been used quite a bit over the years. it evokes the emotions associated with having a warm cup of coffee first thing in the morning, while my head’s trying to figure out why i’m awake at such an hour. my mouth’s watering a bit 🙂
#3 because Tolar told me to vote for that one.
#3 FABULEUX!! FABULEUX, FABULEUX!!!!!
Touchant!
Passionne!
FABULEUX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My vote is for #5. The glittering red shoes just make you want to slip them on, click your heels and spin around the room. Beautiful job!
It’s pretty amzaing!!
#4-It’s pretty amzaing!!
Oops. I forgot the #.
#3, JP’s photo of the coffee mug. It’s excellent.
#3.
Lovely picture, lovely story. Makes me wish my wife would drink coffee so I could maybe have that nice of a story. But we got engaged in the frozen food section of a grocery store.
#3 – they were all so wonderful and the beautiful stories that accompanied were amazing! But the story of the coffee left an imprint and the picture is just yummy looking!
Clearly the mug. The contrast and layout are stunning. Even without the story (while wonderful), this piece is particularly good.
#3 is my favorite. Not only is the composition quite beautiful, but the story behind the composition as well.
Ash’s Tic Tacs…for sure, #4
#3 All great relationships start over coffee. It reminds me of all the friendships, talks, and long study nights spent with coffee.
#3 I think it tells the beginning of a great journey…
#5 Reminds me of my childhood!!
#3 – The subject is artistic and thought provoking.
#3 This coffee mug has a history, aside from the one J.P. shared. The age of the design, the chips, and the scratches testify to the countless coffee drinkers comforted by this mug and its contents.
I vote for number 4. I love the vivid orange against the white and the way the tic tacs–as tiny as they are–produced shadows. Very cool.
#1 – although all of the stories and images are very touching, the piano photo was taken so extremely well. i love the depth of field in the photo and the feeling that the piano has seen its days of joy and sadness.
#3 – What could be more inspirational than the perfect cup of coffee? How many bestsellers, how many heart-wrenching ballads, how many teenage love poems were composed with pen, paper, and the ever humble cup-o-joe at hand? Brilliant conversations…earth-moving and soul-stirring…quiet moments of solitary reflection…today’s nudge out of a melancholy yesterday and into a happier tomorrow…all conjured by the image of a coffee cup. I say brilliant!
I really #3. It is so amazing. All i can think of to say is WOW!!
#3! the coffee cup is very warm and inspirational. extremely good job Mr Stephens!!!
#1. I love the piano. This one connected with me personally out of all of the photos. I love it!
#3 – there are few legal things that have such an impact on moods, events, coherency, and overall human satisfaction as coffee. it is enjoyed, savored, and critiqued. it warms, refreshes, and, as JP has seen firsthand, it unites.
#3 is my favorite. I love the blur effect along with the warm lighting.
#3 – the picture and the story make you want to run out to the nearest coffee shop and fall in love
Wow! I am so honored to be one of the top 5 finalists!! Although I’m tempted to vote for myself (#5!) I’m voting for #1. It truly is an inspirational photograph. It makes me want to go and tickle the ivories!! Great photograph! All the photographs are brilliant by they way. I didn’t include my story behind my inspirational object because I believe a photograph should speak for itself, you don’t need to tell the story behind the image, it should speak loud and clear for itself! I believe that #1 completely embraces this notion and I applaud you Julie… the post processing is great and adds to the image. An instant classic!
#5
There is a story behind #5 and it speaks to me. The image speaks volume. Well done!
5 is my favorite
Number 5!!
Number 5 is great. I like the way the picture reminds you how in the movie the shoes were in color, like Oz.
#3 — All the pictures are fantastic, but #3 was the only one that did something to me… it sparked a craving, it made my mouth water a bit, it makes me feel peaceful.
#3. Even though I do not often go in for a cup of joe, that one is making my mouth water as I type this.
#3 – what a beautiful way to capture a peaceful moment…and it’s got a great story to boot.
#3! I love his depth of field- he is a master of that! 🙂 Also, I spent my first date w/my now husband at a coffee shop as well, so it’s special to us and the picture is very unique!
#3 cup of coffee. I just can’t get over the detail of the cup. the amazing lighting shows every ding and chip. it’s fascinating to study
I vote #3,
the story is amazing, and the pic is to.
#5 simnply amazing. Totally feel connected with the image and the magic that it holds. The sun glare gives it a sense of life to the ruby slippers. Just love it!!
#3 definetly stands out. it’s brilliant!
Although orange Tic Tacs were also in our Christmas stockings, I have to go with #3, the mug. I read somewhere that over 90% of the world’s population drinks caffeinated beverages every day, making it truly a universal symbol of daily inspiration.
#4- the photo is fantastic and the story warms my heart! Love the lighting. Nice job Ashley!
My vote is for #5, something about that flare that just draws me in!
#3 – there are so many things going on in this photo, but what I really like is the color of the coffee. It’s not dark and bold – it’s calm and inviting. The contrast from the mug itself to the background immediately redirects the eye’s focus.
The story is a great one too!
#3 is what I want to see every morning when I wake up!
#1 They’re all lovely, but #1 reminded me of when I was a little girl. Heck, now I’m a ‘grown up girl’ and I’d still love some killer ruby slippers!
I like #3 alot!!
GAH. I meant #5. *Sigh* I guess that means I ought to go drink some more coffee. 🙂
I like #3 alot!!
#5….Don’t we all wish it was as easy as a click to truly go home sometimes?!! This picture makes you feel like it is!
I love number #3, I can smell the aroma from here!!!
#1 the piano
#4 – love the colors & composition and the story is wonderful.
All 5 of the pictures held an interesting, and or beautiful effect; a picture is all about a feeling. The only thing is, I’ve seen them all before. The only picture that REALLY stood out to me as fresh, interesting, and warm all at the same time was number 3. The cup of coffee. It gives you a little bit of everything. A sense of intelect, and feelings of a warm personable reminder. It’s my favorite.
#4 – Loved it!
3- Simple and beautiful like a good cup of coffee
#3
#3- the coffee cup is my pick. I love the blur, which gives that feeling of being warm and cozy. I love the story basically because love that lasts is hard to come by these days…I love that he has kept it special. It’s an inspirational object because it keeps things focused on the simple things and to hold on tight.
I’m going to have to say that #3 gets my vote. The lighting, the softness, the picture itself lets off a warm feeling to all those who see it. And the story behind the picture just makes it all the more inspiring.
WOW! Such wonderful images!
#1 – Great lighting and I love the sepia feel too
#2 – What an adorable onsie! It speaks strength in a tough time…that mamma will cherish it forever I’m sure
#3 – LOVE that old cup…I’m a coffee fanatic and the softness of the mug reminds me of the smooth and warm drink I wake up to everyday. The story was really sweet too.
#4 – One word. YUM! Love tic-tacs…this image looks like it would be an ad for a magazine
#5 – I don’t have any girls so these shoes invite me to go back to my “dress up” days. I only wish I could had owned a pair like these…I love the composition and the sun flare is delicious!!!
My vote goes to #5! Great job!!! I just LOVE that flare 🙂
#4, I love the simplicity of the photo and the story that goes with it is wonderful.
#5 has a captivating quality. It draws me in. I admire all of my sisters work, she’s a great artist.
As usual, they are all worthy of winning!!! Each picture tells it’s own unique story. Hats off to the finalists….great job!
I have to say my favorite is #5. When I saw it, it was like being transported back to my childhood and the majic moments of Dorothy and Toto. The clicking of two red shoes and before she knew it, she was home…I can hear her voice now, “there’s no place like home, Toto”. The way Yvonne captured the sunlight reflecting off the sequins is absolutely amazing. I would love to know how she got this shot. Great job, Yvonne!!!
#4 Tic Tacs
I love orange tic tacs, they make me feel good, happy. I love the composition of the picture.
#3 the coffee. for me this was a tough one between the tic tacs, as both have sentimental value to me. i have to say coffee won out because the photo is so cozy and my husband and i also met at a coffee shop, so it the photo speaks to me like a comfy relationship.
#4. I love the lighting and the story behind it.
#1 The piano. I’m partial to pianos myself, and I love the lack of depth of field on this.
#3, Simple picture that turned out great with a nice story.
I vote for number 2. It is very sweet and inspirational. Plus, Jennifer is my friend. Go Jennifer!
#3 Is my favorite. My whole family loves coffee. Over a good cup we have had many memorable conversations. The story reflects how coffee is a symbol of joining together to share with those we care about.
#3 rocks my socks off
#5 Love everything about this image. And the Sun flare is incredible! Well done! 🙂
#5 Awesome job Yvonne. These shoes truly do look magical!
#2 – I am very touched and moved by the photo and the story behind it. Life is so precious!
#2 is the best!! It has real inspiration!
#2 May this photo inspire all those who’s beginnings in life were traumatic.
#2 because this story makes us appreciate the thing we take for granted.
#2–photo is the only one of the five that I like.
#3, great picture, great story 🙂
#2 – My wife had open heart surgery as a newborn. This image testifies to the extreme importance of fragile life and the miracle of survival.
#2 Love the story and technique!
#3 – I love the coffee cup, the lighting & the story.
Finalist #3, Love and Coffee, by J.P.
You said it best–the warmth of the image.
It’s all about #5!
#5, I hope my daughter finds all the inspiration she needs in life and dreams. All little girls need sparkles and magic!!
5 i just like it best for its clarity and beauty
#5 these shoes would have been on my little girls feet in no time along with a petticoat dress to boot…
#1 Love the sepia/vintage editing done to it and the depth of field makes it “romantic” as a piano should be. (Came by your site through a photog friend who says you’re absolutely wonderful!)
I vote for #4. I love the simplicity of it and the story.
#2 for me. Love the photo and the story.
#2 Life is precious.
wow you took some amazing pictures yvonne. our love is strong. good luck.
withall my love, your little sis Emily in England xxxxxxxxx
I’ve been a finalist in this contest twice (different subjects). Everytime I’ve entered a picture I’ve always wondered, “Really! MeRah picked MY image!?!?!? It’s SSSSOOOO not technically correct. By no means does it DESERVE to win a photo contest!” (And it never did . . . BUT I WAS A FINALIST!) ANYWAYS . . . what I’m trying to get at is every picture has a unique story to tell. EVERY PICTURE TAKEN WITH HEART AND SOUL. The pictures I take don’t necessarily have the technique correct, but I don’t always care as long as the story behind the picture is evident. When I saw the picture of the onesie, NO ONE . . . NOT ONE PERSON had to explain that picture to me. I got it IMMEDIATELY. It had OODLES of inspiration. It speaks. That onesie has had quite the ride. And guess what . . . even though it’s got some areas it could improve on, it’s by far my favorite because of it’s story. It just rocks. It’s really inspirational. It would definitely be a picture all about that baby . . . even without the baby in it. THANKS FOR SHARING IT AND YOU GET MY VOTE!
#3…great picture, so warm and inviting.
#3 – fantastic story, fantastic picture.
I really loved #5 because for me, it very quickly evoked the feeling that anything is possible.
#2 was a very strong second.
#5 – I love the lighting!
#5 is truly magical! It is definately the most inspirational one…. it just gives you a sense that you can click your heels and make anything happen. Love the lighting, love the framing, great capture!
#3 – the romance behind it and the simplicity of it is truly touching…..
#3 so, so sweet!
#5 gets my vote, super job on the lighting and great memories from this photo.
#2 The onesie is inspring to many many ways.
That was me on the last vote but for some reason my website was wrong…this time it works. Sorry for posting twice!
#3 – love it!
#1 love the color & depth….
#3!
#3!
#3!
#2
Kept coming back to this one over and over. ALL ARE GREAT, but I was just drawn to this one. I think it is amazing when a child can inspire our own life stories.
My vote is for #5. I think the photograph is enchanting, without even reading the meaning behind the photo, it inspires a smile.
#5, the shoes are more original and very capitaving
#5, great shot, love the angle, and the sparkle
love # 5, it is awesome
I am so impressed with #5. It is just inspiring and love the flare, sparkle and style!!
#5
#3 – small, seemingly insignificant things are the things that are most meaningful.
#5 – Ruby slippers. Beautiful.
I vote for #5. it’s has great lighting. Good job!
Best picture I’ve ever seen, #5!
we made five hundred? SO COOL!
I already voted, so I cant vote again – but great job again to everyone! Maybe my favorite posts on this blog are the ‘five finalists posts’. It’s so uplifting and inspiring to everyone – finalists and readers alike – really wonderful to read the stories and see the photos and read the comments – ahhh, I love mera’s contests! 😛
Me Ra you pick such great pix that it is hard to choose just one but with that I do have to pick the coffee cup! Love the story and the picture!
Michelle
yah 500 votes
#5 for sure!
I think the best one is 5
#4
I love the story behind this image and the out-of-box thinking behind the object chosen. It’s inspiration that keeps on giving. 🙂
So proud of you, Ashley!
the ruby slippers capture something special, at that flare is awesome!
I vote for #5 for my neice. She just loves her red ruby slippers and i just love chasing her around saying “i will get you my pretty” =)
Nice flare!
I pick #3. The word that keeps coming to mind is rich. The soft black background, the caramely coffee color, the warm wood table and the creamy white coffee cup are just so rich and yummy looking. Not to mention that the background story is just so dang sweet.. I love it!!
Gotta love #5, it’s clean and original.
So excited me ra made it past the 500 mark! Way to go voters!!
#1 – just classy
I vote for #3! The story is so touching!!!
All the pictures are great! My vote goes to picture 1. The picture is timeless and I feel a sense of calmness.
#3 – romantic and moving
There’s no place like home! Gotta go with #5! The lighting is exquisite!
#3
#3 – A picture is worth a thousand words, and this photograph proves it.
#3 does it for me. “Coffee and Love” I enjoyed the blurry background and the focus on the mug of coffee. Nice touch.
I vote #2. Each one of these pictures are so amazing in their own unique way and I so appreciate the stories behind them. However, I resonate with #2 for many reasons. I also love that it hangs on the door of the room and you can see the crib behind which is yet another reminder that he survived and there is life.
#3
#3: Not only do I love coffee. I love the story behind this one.
#3 Love the coffee story!
Something about the slippers makes me want to dance and play, my vote goes for #5!
I vote for number 3 because the image of a favorite coffee mug filled with warm coffee instantly brightens my day. It’s like finding the sacred in the simple.
#5 is beautiful. love the light reflecting. reminds me, too, of bold and untouched children…
#3 is amazing. Coffee is such a part of our culture now, we see Starbucks next to Starbucks. Also, very reminiscent of college life. Warms the heart.
the over all image of 5 is awesome, it doesn’t need a sweet love story to invoke any feelings.
#3 JP’s mug. Beautiful.
#5 is my vote…..we’ve gone thru lots of Ruby shoes in our house 🙂 great shot!
#5 Definitely! I love it! Like another poster said earlier, would love a copy on my daughters wall! 😀
Good luck finalists!
#5, The shoes. I love where the picture takes me. Wonderfully done.
#4- I like how the tic tacs are scattered around.
Yvonne’s ruby slippers is my fave, #5.
3 – on these cold days a good cup of Joe hits the spot. Picture is technically perfect and beautiful.
5 – it’s the best and I want one for the wall in the girls room!
#5
5 – it makes me want to have another baby in hopes of having a girl.
makes me remember watching WoO with my parents growing up
OOPS! ** forgot to say I vote for 5
I have to say #5 may be one of the best pictures I’ve ever seen!
I love #5, it’s original and clean, plus that flare is AMAZING!
Number 5 has my vote!
This is so hard they are all so beautiful and inspiring! I’m going to have to pick #5. Great job everybody!!
These are all so great. I think my favorite is #5. I really love the sun flare on the shoes!
~Kristin
So many beautiful choices but I’m going to say #5.
I say #5 also
#1 for sure, peaceful and beautiful, real art!
I love the tones and how excited this photo makes me feel – 5 🙂
#5 – I looked at all the pictures before I read the ‘story’. #5 doesn’t need one, its obvious and very inspirational! beautiful picture. Good job to all!
#3
#5! Love the flare and sparkle of this one – great perspective. it’s almost as though the shoes become larger than life while at the same time they’re the precious shoes of a little girl. Awesome.
My vote will have to go with #5! I am blown away by the image and would love to have it hanging on my wall. There are several reasons I love this image:
1.A personal connection- my parents are from Kansas and most of my extended family lives there…hence an “Oz-ness” to it.
2. I LOVE and I mean LOVE red shoes. I haven’t counted how many pairs/styles I have…
3. The lighting is just plain brilliant- though there’s nothing plain about it.
So, mega PROPS to Yvonne!!!
#5
It was so hard to choose! But I love the detail and magical feel of this image! I’d also love to hear how you set up this shot. Please tell!
#3 the coffee
#1 – I am so drawn to this photo. It’s striking, yet simple. I know a few notes on the piano, and always had a desire to better myself. People that do play well make it look so easy. The keys remind me of clouds and how easy some can make it look to play.
#3
don’t know if I’m too late to vote, but I really love the simplicity and warmth. The story is amazing too.. but I’m voting based on photo alone.. otherwise it would be WAY too hard.
#3 – I love the warmth that the picture conveys. The wear on the mug makes me think of something well used, trusted, and dependable – like a safe refuge.
#1 The piano is just magical!!
#1- 1930’s piano- a beautiful photograph!
[…] a BIG, BIG congrats to the winner of the Most Inspirational Object Contest! The winner with the most votes is Finalist #5, “No Place Like Home” by […]
I vote for #3….Cup of Coffee, so simple yet so thought provoking. The warmness and softness of the picture; the familiarity of it. I love this pic and I think it should win.
i love lil wayne free styles!!!
#1 photo, ther is nothing like a father daughter relationship.
#1 photo, there is nothing like a father daughter relationship.
#1 … Amazing picture … love the woodwork and the message
I vote for #3. Denise from AZ
great post, thanks for providing so much. Keep up the good posts.! http://www.hoover-f5914900.com
#3
Makes me want to curl up on the couch with a warm mug!