1ST PLACE
Receding, Brian VanDenzen (above)
"The ruins of Chetro Ketl recede into a cold morning fog at Chaco Canyon National Historical Park. Chaco Canyon is a mysterious place, marking the center of the Ancestral Puebloan culture in the 11th and 12th centuries. The great houses of Chaco Canyon were the largest structures in North America until the late 19th century. Now abandoned, those great houses of stone slowly recede into memory and sand." —Brian VanDenzen
2ND PLACE
A Century of Fire: Zozobra’s 100th Burn, Jennifer Valkier
"Captivated by the rich culture of New Mexico, I joined the crowd to witness Zozobra's 100th burn. It was my first time experiencing the event, and it was unforgettable. With an estimated 65,000 people in attendance, the anticipation for the moment of ignition was electric. The fire spirit playfully danced around before finally setting Old Man Gloom ablaze. This shot marks a moment of victory over gloom. The grand finale fireworks display was beyond impressive—better than many Fourth of July shows I've seen. A visit to New Mexico never disappoints." —Jennifer Valkier
3RD PLACE
Enduring Faith, Reece Parker
"I have long been attracted to the adobe churches of northern New Mexico because of what they represent as symbols of faith and community. Although these churches often show the ravages of time and weather, the inner tranquility of these holy places shows the strength of faith and prayer endures undiminished." —Reece Parker
HONORABLE MENTION
Ring of Fire, Steven Bunt
"The Ring of Fire eclipse over the top of the Clyde Hotel in downtown Albuquerque. Two months of planning were put into lining up this shot. A single shot was taken at 450mm." —Steven Bunt
HONORABLE MENTION
1959 Lowrider Impala Grill, Charles Newman
SEE FOR YOURSELF
For the ninth consecutive year, Tularosa Basin Gallery of Photography, in Carrizozo, will host an exhibition featuring the winners. The opening weekend, January 25–26, includes artist appearances and refreshments. As the largest photo gallery in the state, Tularosa Basin Gallery features the work of more than 40 New Mexico photographers. The gallery is open Friday through Sunday and by appointment.