What wonderful photos were submitted in this first “Still Life with Pipes” photo contest! We had a very difficult task choosing the final ranking of the winners. It was a real horse race with the first-place winner finishing by just a nose.

In the near future I will be creating posts about the winners, the camera and lighting equipment they used, and how they conceived their photos. So you can expect to read more about both the photographers and their process in creating their successful entries. I’ll be putting up a special page on the site with the winning photos and statements from the photographers.

Many thanks to Adrienne Harrell and Greg Pease for their hard work in accomplishing repeated judging rounds and for being so passionate about advocating for your favorite photos. Many thanks to Jack Howell, Gunnar Weber-Prada, and Greg Pease for providing prizes for the successful entries.

I was so hearted by both the depth and reach of participation. Geographically, we had photos submitted from Australia, Canada, Chile, England, Greece, and from across the United States.

The enthusiastic support of contest site visitors was amazing as well. As of this morning, the photo entries page drew 3,658 hits. The entrant’s photos were discussed and celebrated on the world’s leading on-line pipe forums. Truly, every entrant’s participation and support made this first contest a resounding success. I wish to convey my sincere and heartfelt thanks to every entrant for your participation.

First Place: Untitled by Skip Moore of Cary, Illinois

Greg Pease: Simply a fantastic photograph. The concept is strong, the composition dynamic, and the execution flawless.

Neill Archer Roan: Magnificent in every way. A fabulous photograph.

Second Place: Studio No. 6 by Al Ojeda of Hillsboro, New Jersey

Greg Pease: Bang! That's what I'm talking about! Beautiful! Brilliant!

Adrienne Harrell: Great idea. Well-balanced photo.

Neill Archer Roan: Spectacular. Very clever placement of dark corncob next to peeled ear. Wonderful texture and technique.

Third Place: Basic Needs by Paul Hubartt, Cornwall, England

Greg Pease: A very beautiful photograph, and DEFINITELY a still-life! Well done.

Adrienne Harrell: Great idea.

Neill Archer Roan: Luscious textural counterpoint. I love this one.

Fourth Place: Sonata in C by Tom Moran, Bakersfield, California, United States

Greg Pease: Amusing concept.

Adrienne Harrell: Good colors, balance, and a clever idea.

Neill Archer Roan: Skillful juxtaposition of black stems and shanks, establishing both a sense of musical notes and playful visual rhythm for the eyes.