Starting with honorable mentions in random order:
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/image/72839323/medium/medium.jpg)
I was in the dark on this one until I read the caption "Sagrada Familia"...of course! What a great shot. I certainly did not notice the spires from this perspective when I was visited Barcelona. I also like how the structures carve an hourglass into the sky, lending an element of "time" to the church whose construction has officially never been finished.
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/kalamazoo/image/57472773/medium/medium.jpg)
Great B&W shot...nice composition with lots of pattern. I still haven't completely convinced myself of where the airplanes come from...hmmm?
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/lsn/image/89914265/medium/medium.jpg)
Nice macro shot. I was admittedly in the dark until I read the caption. Striking!...pun intended.
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/gpmerfeld/image/36026169/medium/medium.jpg)
I figured there would be at least a couple of entries of this type. The photo of these "Ladies" is a superb B&W. I especially like the dual contrast between skin tone and hair color.
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/duto/image/93946233/medium/medium.jpg)
Another great composition. I'm drawn to the sharp lines and angles, as well and the excellent lighting that gives way to a gradient of shadows.
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/berndk/image/93353121/medium/medium.jpg)
Wonderfully creepy...looks like a mythical creature slinking back into the ocean. Great find!
Third place:
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/cocameli/image/70415210/medium/medium.jpg)
For me, the brilliance of this photo lies in its simplicity and powerful symbolism.
Second place:
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/image/104123498/medium/medium.jpg)
I really like the slightly elongated crop on this photo - adds dimension to the visual. It definitely took a few moments to determine what I was looking at. A stunning capture.
First place (Winner):
![](https://pbase.com/image/http://www.pbase.com/grompem/image/83454675/medium/medium.jpg)
I absolutely love this photo. The texture and color are brilliant. And it's a stellar example of crypsis via mimicy. Also impressive is the fact that it must have taken a keen eye to spot this deceptive little critter. Well done!
Thanks again to everyone...
I pass the torch for the next competition to the first place winner, M. Grompe.
Cheers,
John S.