City Competition 5 - all cities! : Entry Number 185

While deciding which images would make the selection, the jury was also looking for simplicity. The decision to render this image in B&W, thus simplifying the color dynamic, gives this photograph a very distinct visual strength. Because of its overall sharp focus this image lends itself both to a detailed inspection of the scene and to an abstract interpretation. It is informative and evocative of the urban space. The jury was particularly attracted to the vendors displaying their goods on the floor and the fact that the viewer is not quite sure where everyone is going.

I am honored to receive a mark of excellence. My name is Ryan Chuman, and this particular scene was shot while I was vacationing in Paris with my girlfriend. I took this photograph with a Nikon D5000 and a Nikkor 35 mm f/1.8G prime lens. It was an overcast day, and we decided to take the stairs to the Eiffel Tower’s summit. At its base, the Eiffel Tower attracts vendors, tourists, armed guards, and local residents that are just passing through, but as I approached the summit I realized that what was once a chaotic street scene had simplified into this unassuming yet calming image. I appreciate that the judges recognized the simplicity in the photograph. Thank you again for the honor.