We are honored to be announcing the winners of our Scenic SWPA Photo Contest and our Fan Favorites Photo Contest winner!
This is the first year Scenic Pittsburgh has held the photo contest, which asked for submissions in 6 categories from across SWPA’s 10-county region. We hoped to call more attention to the overwhelming beauty and unique sights of this area that we believe should be preserved for future generations. We received hundreds of submissions and we owe a debt of thanks to our 5 volunteer judges: Brad Berkstresser, Nick Garuccio, Clare Kaczmarek, Christine Montgomery, and Emmanuel Panagiotakis. Learn more about them and their work.
Our Grand Prize Winner: Angelo Mamone, with Fall Lake Reflections, Moraine State Park.
Angelo had several photos that caught the judges’ eye, but this was their absolute favorite. You can see more of his work on his Facebook page.
Urbanscapes and Townscapes
Category Winner: Cherry Blossoms – North Shore Pittsburgh, by Carolyn Doyle
Some may be familiar with Carolyn’s beautiful pictures around the Pittsburgh region that include a lensball. Carolyn’s work can be seen on her Facebook page and her Instagram.
Landscapes and Farmscapes
Category Winner: On the Way Home, Portersville, PA by Nicolette Tolomeo Germain
Nicolette Tolomeo Germain submitted several photographs that were among the finalists, but her winner is this lovely pastoral. Nicolette markets her work under the name Nicolette’s Memories Photography and you can see more of her work in her Facebook group: Moraine State Park * McConnells Mill * Marblehead * Memories Photography
Historic Sites and Buildings
Category Winner: Cathedral of Learning, by Mike Kutilek
Mike also had several photos that made it into our final review. You can find his work on his website and on Instagram at @mikekutilek.
Scenic Rivers and Waterways
Category Winner: Walk Along Twin Lakes by Dana Rukse
Dana Rukse won in two categories with unique drone photographs of scenic places. He’s been a professional photographer for 30 years, and specializes in drone photography. You can find more of Dana’s work at his website.
Scenic Trees and Forests
Category Winner: Winter’s Drive Near Ligonier, Dana Rukse
People in Scenic Places
Category Winner: Pittsburgh View from the Strip District by Bruce Howard, Sr.
Bruce Howard, Sr. won for this unique perspective of the strip. The judges commented on the way the photo showcased people’s celebratory mood. You can see his work at his website or you can check him out on Instagram at @bruceh18.
Fan Favorites Winner
Blue and Gold Forever, the Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain by Allen Howard
Allen Howard’s photo received 249 votes to be named the Fan Favorite. Check out more of his work at his website or check him out on Instagram at @allenhoward.photo
