08/11/2024
Ducky, our founder on judging the Eyes on Cambo photo comp! We are so proud to support arts in Cambodia!
🎤📸 Meet our Judge!
As we roll out the judging phase of Eyes on Cambodia, we caught up with one of our judges, Sonya Duck, who’s also the founder of Urban Forage Food and Art Tours, one of our Gold Sponsors, to hear her reflections on this year’s submissions. Here’s what she had to say:
✨ What stood out to you the most while judging the entries?
“I would say the photographers’ ability to capture unexpected moments that felt both authentic and thoughtfully composed. Whether it was the way light played across a subject, a unique perspective on a familiar scene like Angkor, or the raw emotion in someone’s expression, there was a sense of intention and creativity in each frame.”
📸 Were there some specific themes or subjects you did not expect?
“I was expecting to see entries showcasing our spectacular major attractions—Angkor Wat, beaches, mountains, etc.—but I was pleasantly surprised to see entries highlighting everyday Cambodian life. Things we take for granted and have forgotten to stop and admire living here in the Kingdom.”
🌄 Was there a moment in the judging process that felt particularly challenging?
“I think for me a challenging part of the process was balancing technical merit with creativity and narrative impact.”
🎨 On the Diversity and Creativity in Submissions:
“I was blown away by the diversity and the creativity in the submissions. It’s inspiring to see photographers explore such a wide range of styles, perspectives, and storytelling techniques.”
💡 Advice for Future Entrants:
“When entering future photography competitions, remember that storytelling is key. A powerful image doesn’t just capture what’s there; it conveys a mood, sparks curiosity, and evokes emotions. Focus on creating photos that go beyond technical perfection.
Don’t be afraid to take risks—sometimes the most unconventional shots are the ones that leave the strongest impression. And finally, stay true to your own style and vision; authenticity resonates more than a technically perfect photo.”
- - -
We’re excited to celebrate all of these talented photographers who have shared their unique visions of Cambodia! Stay tuned for the reveal ! 📷