This year’s contest presented an unusually high level of quality across submissions. Narrowing 184 images down to fewer than 32 was genuinely challenging. At one point, nearly half of the entries were still on the table. Reducing that group by another sixty required careful consideration and intentional restraint. One of the most important elements I looked for throughout the judging process was whether a photograph felt deliberate. Images that stood out were those that showed thought, purpose, and story. Whether the moment was funny, abstract, emotional, or simply meaningful, the strongest photographs demonstrated intention in both subject and execution. It warmed my heart to read every description submission. Almost every image felt special to the photographer in some way. This is important, because good photography isn't just about a good image, but also how the photographer felt in that moment. It’s part of the story.

Photography, at its core, is about capturing a singular moment in time, uniquely and intentionally, and under the theme of “24 hours,” these students did exactly that. What impressed me most was the level of awareness behind nearly every image. Many strong photographs ultimately could not be included simply due to space limitations, not because they lacked merit. If your work is not represented here, it does not reflect your ability or potential as a photographer. Creative growth comes from learning how to see the world differently and more intentionally, and this year’s submissions showed that many of these students are already well on that path. – Jonathan Zaharek


Jonathan Zaharek is a highly recognized professional landscape photographer and artist specializing in the extreme and diverse environments of the Adirondack High Peaks. Jonathan has also traveled to over 30 countries in his pursuits of exploration and photography. What began as a passion for visual storytelling in high school quickly became a full-time pursuit, and for over a decade, Jonathan has dedicated his career to capturing the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of the Adirondacks. His work is showcased exclusively through the Lake Placid Center for the Arts, and his striking imagery has earned him numerous awards, features in major publications, and a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts and collectors alike. As an author, Jonathan continues to share his deep knowledge of the region, blending adventure, conservation, and artistry in his work to inspire others to appreciate and explore the natural world.