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Nine Russian photographers were awarded at the College Photographer of the Year (CPOY) competition, which is considered one of the most significant in the field of student photojournalism. The results of this prestigious competition were announced on October 27.
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More than 600 students from over 160 educational institutions in 50 countries participate in CPOY annually. The competition, which has been held since 1945, celebrates its 79th anniversary this year.
In this article, we present the winners and their photographs. We'll tell you in detail about each of them, what inspired them to create these unique images, and the ideas they put into their work. You'll be able to discover how the winners see the world through the lens of their creativity and admire their outstanding achievements in photography.
"Taste of Iron"
Natalie Duric, a student at the Fotografika Academy of Documentary and Art Photography, achieved significant success by becoming a finalist in the Illustration category. This category is designed for conceptual images that require strict aesthetic control and clarity of purpose. This achievement highlights the student's high level of preparation and creative potential, and confirms the Academy's reputation as a center for developing talent in photography and visual arts.
Natalie Duric's photo project explores the city of Vyshny Volochok, which for her looks like life on pause. In the past, this town played an important role as a transportation hub between St. Petersburg and Moscow, and during Soviet times, industrial production flourished here. The local glass factory became famous for creating the famous ruby Kremlin stars. However, over time, the town experienced a period of decline, as the factory buildings fell into disrepair. This project provides a glimpse into the history and present of Vyshny Volochyok, highlighting the contrasts between its former glory and its current state.
Local residents cut out iron supports from the factories at night, which ultimately led to their collapse. This action resulted from dissatisfaction with working conditions and the economic situation in the region. The collapse of the factories became a landmark event, drawing public attention to the problems faced by workers. These actions highlight the importance of social change and the need to improve living and working conditions for residents.
The topic of societal stagnation is an important aspect of my research interests. As part of the project, I explore the concept of collective memory. Through digital collages, I connect space and time using archival photographs capturing city life. By introducing both historical figures and architectural structures into the contemporary landscape of Vyshny Volochyok, I create new visual spaces. This approach creates the illusion of transcending time, allowing the viewer to more deeply understand the connection between past and present. The blending of times creates a unique collective image of a society that resides in its present while simultaneously experiencing nostalgia for a collective past. This effect allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical roots of modernity, as well as an appreciation for how the past shapes the present. Nostalgia, as an emotional state, influences the perception and behavior of society, reflecting its values and aspirations. Thus, the interaction of times becomes key to the analysis of social change and cultural transformation. The project aims to create an innovative solution that will significantly improve the user experience. The main goal is to develop a convenient and functional platform that facilitates effective user interaction. We strive to provide high-quality service and system reliability. In our work, we focus on modern technologies and best practices, which allows us to offer unique opportunities and solutions for our target audience. Our team consists of professionals ready for new challenges and open to feedback, which allows us to continuously improve our product.
"My Mom Doesn't Work"
Olga Steinepreis, a Russian living in Germany, represents "Fotografika" in the competition. In her artistic practice, she focuses on the themes of motherhood, family, and gender roles, exploring their impact on the individual and society. Her works reflect deep emotional experiences and social aspects associated with these important topics, making them relevant and significant in contemporary art.
The "My Mom Doesn't Work" series was created by Olga after she heard her son's answer to his friend's question: "What does your mother do?" The son said his mother doesn't have a "real job." This phrase became the starting point for a discussion about the role of mothers in society and the importance of their contribution to the family and raising children. The project emphasizes that a mother's work, though often unnoticed, is of immense importance.
I feel awkward when I mention that I am a housewife. For me, this word is associated with idleness. In my defense, I always add that I have three children, and with them there are a lot of responsibilities, which leaves me little free time.
A housewife's working day begins and ends at odd hours. In families with children, it seems to never stop. There are always tasks that require attention, even if they are not always obvious. These are everyday actions performed automatically, when a woman immerses herself in household chores, and everything seems to happen by itself. Each day is filled with worries and responsibilities that require time and effort, creating an atmosphere of constant busyness.
The reason my subject's face is not visible in the project is because her image is often not in the foreground. In some cases, she can be found in the photograph, but she is not always prominent. This creates intrigue and allows viewers to focus on other elements of the composition and the atmosphere of the project.
Household chores performed by women are often perceived by other family members as an integral part of the home. This unnoticed work, as a rule, does not receive the recognition and respect it deserves. There is a perception that staying at home and doing household chores is not real work, which leads to an undervaluation of women's efforts. It's important to recognize that every task related to household management requires time and energy, and its importance should not be underestimated. Recognizing and appreciating this work can promote family harmony and improve mutual understanding.
The project description indicates that it aims to address current challenges and meet the needs of the target audience. The project involves developing innovative solutions that will significantly improve the quality of services. A primary focus is on using modern technologies and methods to increase efficiency and achieve the stated goals. The implemented solutions are expected to generate interest in the project and attract new users. It is important to note that the project is focused on long-term collaboration and sustainable development, which is a key factor in its success.
"Colorful Mood"
Art photographer Alena Ivochkina, representing the Elena Sukhoveeva and Viktor Khmel School of Photography, received recognition for her series of photographs that explore how objects become a means of communication with the surrounding world. These works emphasize the importance of the relationship between people and their environment, and also contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of things in our lives.
Although these are self-portraits, the main object of attention in them is clothing.
Clothing is not just fabric, it is a reflection of our personality and emotions. Each thing can evoke certain memories: one favorite thing brings joy, another is associated with sadness, and a third creates an atmosphere of lyricism. In all my photographs, I am depicted faceless, symbolizing my isolation from the world and my deep immersion in the emotions evoked by the clothing I choose. While working on the project, I employed a collage technique: the background, images of my head, and body were photographed separately and combined in a graphics editor. This approach allows me to emphasize the connection between clothing and emotions, creating unique images and atmosphere.
The project description is a brief and informative summary that helps us understand the essence and purpose of our endeavor. In this project, we aim to solve a specific problem or meet a specific need for our target audience. Our primary focus is developing innovative solutions that will improve users' quality of life and increase process efficiency. We utilize modern technologies and methodologies to ensure maximum effectiveness and customer satisfaction. Our team of professionals is working to create a product that will meet the highest quality standards and will be in demand in the market. The project description also includes key implementation stages and expected results, allowing stakeholders to better understand its significance and potential.
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Volunteers on boats in a flood zone
In the "Breaking News" category, the jury evaluated photographs that captured events that were impossible to predict or prepare for. Such events include fires, accidents, and natural disasters. These images capture moments filled with emotion and tension, showing how quickly circumstances can change and the consequences that can result from unexpected disasters.
Vadim Nasyrov, a student at the DocDocDoc school of contemporary photography, received recognition for his work during the Orsk flood in the spring of 2024. His photographs captured moments reflecting the aftermath of the natural disaster and human emotions during this difficult period. This experience became an important stage in his creative career and emphasizes the importance of documentary photography in covering social issues.
Portrait of athlete Alena Zatonskaya
In this category, the jury analyzed sports photographs that convey powerful human stories.
Alina Kizilkaya, a portrait and documentary photographer from St. Petersburg representing the DocDocDoc school, has received recognition for her work capturing Russian adaptive rowing champion Alena Zatonskaya. This photograph highlights not only the athlete's individual achievements but also the importance of adaptive sports in modern society.
"Arthur and his "Brotherhood of Elk""
Natalia Shatokhina of DocDocDoc received recognition from the jury for her photograph of Artur Maliev, who founded a moose sanctuary in the Tver region. This work demonstrates the importance of preserving wildlife and draws attention to animal protection efforts. The photograph reflects not only the uniqueness of the project, but also the personality of its creator, which makes it meaningful for viewers.
"Old and Young"
In the Interpretive Eye category, authors present their unique perspective on the world around us. This nomination is dedicated to individual documentary photographs that serve as the author's visual commentary. Photographs in this category highlight the individuality of perception and interpretation of reality, giving viewers the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of the photographer.
Tatyana Sikorskaya from the Fotografika Academy won the competition with a photograph depicting a grandfather suffering dementia, and his granddaughter, who is experiencing depression. The photograph symbolizes the deep emotional connections and difficulties faced by people suffering from mental illness. Works such as this highlight the importance of understanding and support for people experiencing such difficulties.
Humans are just a part of nature
Natalia Getman, known as Tutta Gnutta and part of the Fotografika Academy, explores the connection between humans and nature. For her, this connection represents an important aspect of life that helps achieve harmony and balance.
The CPOY jury highly appreciated her untitled photograph.
Humanity is actively developing Technology, and digitalization permeates every aspect of our lives. Despite the rapid development of the digital world, humans remain powerless against the forces of nature. All the structures we create become vulnerable over time. Nature has its own power, and it invariably restores harmony by absorbing the abandoned and destroyed creations of man. No matter what games we play with technology, we always remain part of the natural cycle of life.
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"Interweaving"
In the Interpretive Project category, the jury evaluated documentary photographic essays and series that represent a unique authorial interpretation. These works should demonstrate the originality and depth of the photographer's vision, revealing their individual approach to the subject and context.
Elena Sakurova of Fotografika has received recognition for her project exploring the unique bond between her children and her own experience of motherhood. This project emphasizes the importance of family relationships and emotional connections, and reveals the depth of maternal love and care.
Seven years ago, I became the mother of triplets, and since then I've constantly felt like I can't give each of them enough attention. Since their birth, I've encountered situations where, while I'm hugging one, the others demand my attention. Psychologists call this phenomenon "twin rivalry." I often forget about my own needs and violate personal boundaries in an effort to provide equal time and care for each daughter, as well as to maintain order in the house. It's as if we merge into a single organism, where personal desires and interests fade into the background. This experience of motherhood requires not only physical but also emotional commitment, and it's important to find a balance between caring for the children and your own needs.
The girls have a strong bond with each other and have difficulty being separated, even for a short time. This may be because others perceive them as a single unit, calling them "triplets". Passers-by on the street, teachers at kindergarten, coaches, and neighbors often do not distinguish between them, ignoring their individuality. This perception can affect their self-identification and emotional state, making their relationships even more meaningful.
When taking self-portraits with children, I stop and observe us, as if reliving these moments. Photography allows me to capture moments that have already become part of the past and remember them again by looking at the pictures. This process not only documents our lives, but also brings me a therapeutic effect. With the help of self-portraits, I create a visual history of our family time, which helps preserve valuable memories and strengthen the emotional connection with the children.
From the project description
The project aims to create an innovative solution that will help improve the quality of life of users. The main goal is Developing a product that meets modern requirements and the expectations of our target audience. We strive to offer unique features and capabilities that will distinguish our project from the competition.
During the project's implementation, all current market trends and user needs will be taken into account. We plan to actively collect feedback and make adjustments to ensure maximum compliance with audience expectations.
Our solution will also be optimized for search engines, increasing visibility and attracting more users. We are confident that the results of our work will be an important contribution to the development of this field and will help solve current problems.
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