Worlds Best!

Dodgykeeper

Paul Mohan of Sportsfile won the world press photo award for this picture,

http://www.worldpressphoto.org/index.php?option=com_photogallery&task=view&id=1435&Itemid=223&bandwidth=high

Well done to the lad, and dont want to take anything away from him, but I dont get it! Its a pretty average pic ok the facial expressions are good but have see better on here!

Calina

Unusual to see a black and white sports shot recognised.

I have to say, however, I think it is a stunning photograph. The lighting is exceptional, the timing is excellent, and the whole composition and framing is very special. There's a very big story in it. I like it a lot.

AnimalRights

Agree with DK on this one.

AnCatDubh

I don't particularly disagree with what you say but i'm not big into sports stuff so others may be able to rationalise the choice better. Also i need to read up on the awards as I've only viewed the image which you linked to.

Having said that - I guess it brings up the age old question of what makes an award winning photograph - perhaps it is in the eye of the beholder, perhaps it is in the moment, perhaps it is in technical excellence of the shot or the photographic skill of the photographer.

AnimalRights

AnCatDubh wrote: »

Having said that - I guess it brings up the age old question of what makes an award winning photograph - perhaps it is in the eye of the beholder, perhaps it is in the moment, perhaps it is in technical excellence of the shot or the photographic skill of the photographer.

Was waiting for someone to come out with that!
It's just a normal type of that particular photograph...

Borderfox

He might have taken it but its not his picture!!

AnCatDubh

Judging takes place at the beginning of February each year. The contest jury comprises thirteen picture editors, photographers and representatives of press agencies from different parts of the world, with widely divergent backgrounds.

This brings to the process a breadth of experience, a variety of perception, and a contrast in viewpoint that keeps judging dynamic and bolsters objectivity. The jury acts independently of World Press Photo, and the organization has no influence on its decisions.

So it's now clear - The awards are a camel (horse designed by a committee of diverse backgrounds). Makes sense to be honest.

So given that, I'd guess you'd have to take it as something that you'll think is the best thing since sliced bread or else the worst thing since sliced bread.

CabanSail

Not knowing anything about Rugby makes it hard for me to see the significance of that shot.

I do like that the presentation in B&W with the lighting. The background clutter is quite a distraction though. Still well done.

Eirebear

CabanSail wrote: »

Not knowing anything about Rugby makes it hard for me to see the significance of that shot.

You certainly dont know anything about rugby.....look at the picture again!:D

CabanSail

Yes ..... and?

Eirebear

CabanSail wrote: »

Yes ..... and?

It aint rugby?

CabanSail

Well that's how much I know about sport in a nutshell. I cannot tell the difference.

Hugh_C

CabanSail wrote: »

Well that's how much I know about sport in a nutshell. I cannot tell the difference.

You're kidding, no? Even my wife who detests rugby can tell the difference

AnimalRights

Glad I didn't see this thread when I was pissed last night....

Where I used to live we used to say that any bloke not into footy was gay.

challengemaster

what's special about it?

CabanSail

AnimalRights wrote: »

Where I used to live we used to say that any bloke not into footy was gay.

..... and what's wrong with that Big Boy?

Actually it really annoys people that I do not get worried when Australia is beaten in some sort of sporting contest. They are hoping to get me riled & I really don't give a toss.

I guess that any photograph relies on some connection of the viewer to the subject truly appreciate it.

-mcguire-

Strange one alright, delighted for him to win the award.
But don't think I'd have looked twice at the picture and am not trying to cause offense by saying that.
Yet again I've seen a photograph shock me when winning an award. Was it a public vote?

ThOnda

Nope, World Press Photo is not a public vote system. I would recommend visiting their page and reading what is possible to read. And also to check photos from previous years. I must say that it is photography - some pictures makes me feel completely stoned, some do not do anything to me.
Like the Auschwitz or the rugby one - don't get me wrong, but guys here have better sport pictures. I just cannot cope with the processing of the picture.

daycent

That's a strange one. If it won the sport section I'd be surprised, but the overall winner Still, fair dues to him.