and the winners are...

Thank you so much for participating in our Self-Portrait contest. I had over 1300 votes! There were so many wonderful images. Here is what you and I chose to win the first Nicole's Classes Textbook...

Reader's Choice: Ann Whitaker



Isn't this image beautiful? I absolutely love it. It also took some time, patience and knowledge! Ann works a lot with old film cameras --be sure to see her beautiful photographs here.

From Ann:

I have been learning how to use a Graflex/Speedgraphic because I fell in love with the amazing depth of field it can get, and I love playing with the focal plane. So, so fun. But, it has been a patient process for sure...I've got a long way to go. This photo was shot September 13, 2009: F-stop at 4.7 and shutter speed at 1/1000 of a second. The only photoshopping done to the photo was some color-balancing...the depth of field is all Graflex. I had to stay near the camera while taking this photo because I did not have the luxury of a digital/remote timer. I could only stand back a step or two so that I could press the shutter release.

Thanks for having this challenge...it motivated me to play around some more with my Graflex. I'm crossing my fingers for a copy of your textbook, which I am in desperate need of!

My Choice: Vanille


I love this self-portrait of Frenchie Vanille for its mystery and mood. Great work, Vanille! You MUST check out her blog -At Down Under- full of gorgeous food photos and writing.

Also.. i have to give shout-outs to more favorites: wen chang, kaitlyn mcgill, kimberly wilson, janice bouwhuis, kelly jacikas, amy wright, adam moore, holly wolsey, jenn savage, brooke galata, capree kimball, luis murillo, ryan hoffman.