Grand Prize Winner Mike Stammberger

Point Reyes, California

In Point Reyes, California, Mike Stammberger found himself with perfect photo conditions for the first time. The previous four or five occasions when he had visited the area, it was either extremely windy or foggy. “This time it was clear with no clouds in the sky,” he recalls. “So I thought I’d focus on those sea stacks offshore.” The dreamy image earns top honors in the OP Mystical Adventures Photo Contest presented by India’s Ministry of Tourism. Prizes include a Tamrac 3385 Speed Pack, a Duggal 16×24-inch print of the photo, a Pelican Storm Case and a Gitzo GT2541 tripod with GH2780QR head.

Nikon D60, AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm ƒ/2.8G ED, Manfrotto Tripod and ballhead

 

1st Prize Winner Jesse Estes

Sourthern Oregon Coast

Taken at sunset along a remote area of the Southern Oregon coast as 20 foot waves crashed below.

 

Honorable Mention Jan Dospel

Lava Viewing

Lava viewing from a boat on the Big Island, Hawaii.

 

Honorable Mention Mel Rabinowitz

Bright Eyes

This young lady was very interested in my snow white beard, and kept reaching out to touch it. When I raised the camera to take her photo, she quickly wrapped her headpiece around her mouth. It’s not apparent in the picture, but she was actually laughing as I took it.

 

Honorable Mention John Roush

Storm Clearing At Yosemite

Following a rainy night, I made this image in Yosemite Valley late morning.

 

People's Choice Winner Mitch Ridder

Flattop Mountain

Shot in early October, the day after a snow storm blew through.