We had numerous entries showcasing the winter beauty of the many beautiful, old trees that we have in town. Winners were awarded in 3 age categories: under 20; 20-55; and over 55. Gift certificates to Uncle Rico’s Pizza, Market 32, and the Nott Street Office were given to the 3 age group winners and overall winner.
In the Under 20 category, the winner was Ollie Lovegrove with a photo titled “Above the Pines”. This photo is an overhead view of fallen trees in a snowy forest. The photo evokes a feeling of peace and serenity in a snowy wonderland. This photo was taken near Maple Lane, by the boundary of Niskayuna and Colonie.
In the 20-55 age group, the winner was Claudia Kammer. Claudia’s photo is a great composition of a single tree leaning over the Mohawk River, with the silhouette of a person beneath it, looking out towards the river. Taken near Lock 7 during a brief snowstorm, this photo captures one of the many moods of winter.
The overall winner and the winner in the 55+ plus category was Laurel Burns. Titled “Winter Dreamscape”, this is a truly spectacular photo of a lone tree on the Mohawk Golf course at sunset. The light on the clouds with the golden sunset below and the contrast of the black silhouette of the tree makes this entry stand out. Laurel says she has been dazzled by the many beautiful sunsets this past winter.
We are also pleased to announce four honorable mentions. The first is “Old Nisky Sunset” by Maureen Woerner. The gorgeous orange pink sky highlights the mature silver maples that line the streets in Old Niskayuna. Maureen took this photo on one of her walks to the many local establishments on Nott St.
“Fresh Snow on Evergreens” by Christine Pupura is another honorable mention winner. This photo captures the beauty of snow-covered conifers after one of our many snowfalls this year.
Our 3rd honorable mention, and our youngest winner, goes to 8-year-old Evelyn Chapman. In her photo, redbuds create an archway, and the way the photo is framed, it looks like it is leading the viewer to a “Secret Garden” which is the title of her photo.
Our final honorable mention goes to Isabella Smarro. Her photo is titled “There’s Warmth after a Winter Snow”. The creativity of this photo really stands out—centered on the sun, shining through a close-up of a snow-covered branch. You can really feel winter’s warmth amid the starkness in this photo.
Thanks to all the entrants that submitted photos! These photos show some of the truly amazing natural beauty that we have here in town.
Here are all the photos, and descriptions, that were considered for the Tree Council’s 2024-2025 Winter Tree Photo Contest
