1ST PLACE
Rodeo Wrangler, Jim Shepka
“I captured this Americana-themed image as the wranglers entered the arena at the annual Fourth of July ‘Freedom Rodeo,’ held at the Tamaya Horse Rescue facility. I wanted to express additional movement, so I intentionally dragged the shutter while focusing on the flag.”—Jim Shepka
2ND PLACE
Sunset Symphony, Stephanie Nieto
“In Albuquerque's Old Town Plaza, mariachi musician Michael Chavez serenades the people with his soulful violin and brilliant vocals. As the 'Sunset Symphony' fills the evening air, he gets lost in the music. Chili ristras frame his gazing eyes, bringing the Día de los Muertos celebration to life.”—Stephanie Nieto
3RD PLACE
Take a Break, Rob Lang
“Take a Break was made while visiting Fite Ranch in San Antonio, New Mexico. It was a very hot day, and I asked my friend how he deals with the heat in the summer. The cows and I decided to let the cowboy have his time alone.” —Rob Lang
HONORABLE MENTION
Dust & Dreams, Chanel Flores
“I titled the photo Dust & Dreams because, while I focused on keeping her outfit clean for the perfect shot, she was simply being 10—drawn to the beauty of the land, the caves, the cliff dwellings of Bandelier National Monument. In her curiosity, I saw the beauty of childhood—where every speck of dust is part of an adventure, and every step is fueled by dreams.”
—Chanel Flores
HONORABLE MENTION
Giving His All, Evalyn Bemis
“Powwows such as the Gathering of Nations are a special time for Native people to gather and display their heritage through regalia and traditional dance skills. This young boy attracted my eye with his ferocious energy, so it felt right to express that through blurred motion.”—Evalyn Bemis