Grand Prize Winner
Christopher Tuite, first-time traveler
Hayward, CA

This intimate snapshot of a community of Maasai women was captured during our New! Kenya & Tanzania Safari: Masai Mara to the Serengeti adventure.

Comments from the judges: Photos of the Maasai people are very popular, yet this image shows us a unique perspective of the subject. Its thoughtful composition and use of depth of field draws you right into the scene, making the viewer feel as if they, too, are a part of this authentic slice of daily life. The beautiful light and vibrant colors evoke joyful emotions as well.

Wildlife Winner
Barbara Roberts, 8-time traveler
Berlin, MD

This sleek leopard was photographed mid-stretch during Ultimate Africa: Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe Safari.

Comments from the judges: This photograph has a wonderful, textural feel, as the leopard and his curving tail mimic the lines of the tree branches around him. It captures an interesting moment between action, as the creature readies himself to leap to the next branch. It also features a good use of negative space—while other photos may have zoomed in on the animal alone, the inclusion of the leaves and branches enhances the overall color scheme. The details are very clear and crisp.

Local People Winner
Kathy Vitale, 24-time traveler
Walpole, MA

A local Moroccan woman is shown in a peaceful moment of quiet during Morocco Sahara Odyssey.

Comments from the judges: This beautiful, contemplative scene captured our attention with its expert use of light—as sun streams through the open door, it draws the eye to the subject. The interesting surrounding gives us a rare glimpse of local life, and makes the viewer want to know more about the woman gazing out the door.

Scenery Winner
Vicki Sieber-Benson, 24-time traveler
Westlake, OR

This gorgeous vista of an Alpine Swiss village was taken on our Northern Italy: The Alps, Dolomites & Lombardy adventure.

Comments from the judges: This serene scene looks almost like a painting, and is enhanced by the inclusion of the reflection in the lake and space around the building and boat. Using the rule of thirds strengthens this lovely composition overall.

Fellow Traveler Winner
Denis Yu, first-time traveler
Chantilly, VA

This photo captures features a fellow traveler calmly contemplating the sprawling majesty of the Sahara during Morocco Sahara Odyssey.

Comments from the judges: This photographer does a great job of capturing this calm, quiet moment between a traveler and the affecting experience she is having. While there are other people present, the woman is clearly not distracted from contemplating the vast landscape exhibited here.