Meet The Photo Contest Judges

We had another great year of submissions for our 2024 Photography Contest! This year we received 270 photos among the various categories. There are so many fabuluous photos to choose from, it can be hard to select the winners so we bring in the experts! This year, we welcome photographers Aaron Winters, Ed Pickett and Kevin Tubiolo to judge the contest. Want to learn more about the judges? We asked them to send us a little information about themseles that we could share.

Aaron Winters

I’ve been an avid photographer since retiring in 2010.  The free time allowed me to get out and really get to know my gear, my area, and other photographers.  A good friend and excellent photog once said to me “If you want to get better, Shoot, Shoot, Shoot!” You learn to see what makes you enjoy a photograph and helps set them apart from the snapshots.  The Bird House Photo Contest has provided and excellent platform to see what others are shooting and to display your work. I’ve won a couple and judged several and am delighted to be a participant, and be able to see the growth in both quality and size of the contest.  See Aaron’s work on his website: aaronwintersphotography.com.

 

Ed Pickett

Back in High School, around 1963, I built my first darkroom in the basement of our family home in NJ. I was fascinated by the magic of taking a picture, processing the 35mm film and printing a black and white photo.
In 1975 I migrated from NJ to Rochester, NY and entered the RIT photography program. RIT became one of the most enlightening experiences of my life, being exposed to exceptionally talented instructors and discovering the many unique and unexpected aspects of photography. I’ve always found Wildlife and Nature photography to be the most personally rewarding and Scenic Landscapes to be inspiring. I’ve done weddings, portraits, tech illustrations, documentation, public relations and group photos but I’m really in my element when pursuing Wildlife, Nature and Landscape images.
Judging The Birdhouse’s Photo Contest has become increasingly difficult each year because the photos are so much better with each new Contest. Choosing “the Best” is a matter of exceedingly small differences between many excellent images. Thanks to all those who have entered their photos, it really is an exhilarating experience to see such talent and unique perspectives.

 

Kevin Tubiolo

I really enjoy capturing WNY landscapes and wildlife. I feel by specializing in the beauty of this area, the photos I offer at the local art shows and festivals may create a connection with the people viewing my art. I love when someone looks at one of my prints and they share a memory about the location of the photo. Many times, the potential buyers will get the backstory of the photo they are interested in. I always enjoy sharing what caught my eye to capture the moment or the excitement I experienced when photographing wildlife. In addition to photographing local landscapes and wildlife, I also specialize in real estate photography. Many times, when a real estate agent is getting ready to list a property, they will contact me to provide them with inside, outside and aerial photos of the property.
When not out with my cameras, I enjoy spending time with Kari, my wife of 38 years, and my dogs, Shelby and Mickey. I also love watching our 15-year-old grandson play baseball. If you are interested in seeing my work or finding out where I will be showing, please go to my website: www.totlphotography.com.