Photographers were invited to submit up to three photos of animals from Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, from current or previous years. Judges were Jesse Thompson, co-owner of Milford Photo; Roger Salls, owner of Roger Salls Photography; and Jack Bradley, Zoo volunteer and instructor of Zoo classes on animal photography. Judge for the Youth Category was Ashlie Steinau of Ashlie Steinau Photography.
Photography Exhibition sponsor Milford Photo provided the first, second, and third prizes in the form of gift certificates to the store. In addition, a People’s Choice Award was selected, based on $1 votes from the audience. There was also a Zoo Director’s Choice, with Gregg Dancho selecting his favorite photo.
WINNERS:
First Place: “Bon Appetit” by Scott Vincent of Trumbull
Third Place: “Eyeing My Next Meal” by Robyn E. Abrams of Newtown
YOUTH WINNERS:
Up to Age 12 Category: Hidden Beauty by Jonathan Klein of Fairfield
13-17 Age Category: Untitled by Paul Zello of Bridgeport
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
“Pondering” by Cheryl L. Prior of Torrington
“MMM Ants” by John Vecchio of Orange
“The Ponderer” by Richard Kunsch of Milford
PEOPLE'S CHOICE:
“Majestic Beauty” by Lexi Crocco of Orange
ZOO DIRECTOR'S CHOICE:
“Love You Dad” by Lillian Staron of Branford
“Art is a natural way for people to express their love of animals and appreciation of nature,” said Zoo Director Gregg Dancho. “The Photography Goes Wild Exhibit helps to showcase the stunning diversity of species at the zoo, and we hope, encourages people to focus on preserving wild habitats and animal conservation in new ways.”
Milford Photo Co-Owner Jesse Thompson said, “It’s been great partnering with the Zoo by providing area photographers with a fun venue to shoot and display their work. Milford Photo looks forward to more events at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo.”