Captions

1st Place:  Taj Reflections (Agra India) -- Megan Maurice
I can’t remember if there were signs existing at the Taj Mahal, signaling to “not take pictures.” Even if there were, given the reality of the photo-snapping tourism going through the Taj, one could even say that signs are irrelevant. I do remember that this photograph was intentional, in an aesthetically pleasing attempt. The reason that I was feeling particularly conscious while I was taking this photograph is that fact that there have been so many photographs taken of the Taj Mahal. However, this one I could say is my own, and it may even be different from the rest.

2nd Place: Tori Gates (Kyoto, Japan) – Andrew Decker
Tori gates are entrances to sacred Japanese Shinto shrines; this particular area was a long circular path that was full of these sacred toris. It was designed this way to be a meditational path to those that walk it.

3rd Place: Zen (Kyoto, Japan) – Andrew Decker
Sitting on a wooden deck watching the monks rake the pebbles in the Zen garden is a local and tourist tradition when visiting the old capitol city, were many famous Zen gardens are located. Watching such an event truly calms the soul and brings one’s self closer to nature.

4th Place: A Birthday to Remember (Paris, France) – Montell Edgar
When I realized that I would be turning 21 in Paris, I decided that I would have to be at the top of the Eiffel Tower on my birthday. I didn’t consider the fact that I’m scared of heights, but it was well worth it.

5th Place: Friendly Research Assistant (Boundary Waters, MN) – Allie Nappe
This picture was taken while collecting data in a bog located in the middle of the Low Lake in the Boundary Waters this past fall. This beautiful caterpillar provided to be a source of entertainment and a positive atmosphere while working on the class research project.

Honorable Mention: The Foggy Empire (New York, NY) – Andrew Decker
Walking along so fast one barely has the time to look up, the fast pace of the city keeps everyone moving. When one has the time to stop one can see something spectacular. This is just one of those nights in the big city when you look up you and suddenly realize the immense size of the city.

Honorable Mention: Merci (Paris, France) – Jessie Strains
This photograph was taken of me as I first saw the Eiffel Tower up close.  I like it because it is a different perspective of the Eiffel Tower, and I believe it shows its grandeur and beauty. The photograph also showcases the beauty of the Parisian buildings and the city of Paris itself.  I called it “Merci” because I somehow made it through almost a week in Paris knowing two French words: pardon and merci.