Gobsmacked is the word I would use to describe how I felt when I was notified that my picture of Declan (above) won the Editor’s Choice award of Macleans Magazine’s Great Canadian Photo Contest for the month of February.
It’s a good word; I know it well described how my face looked when I read the email from Liz Sullivan, the photo editor of the magazine. I had entered the contest on a whim, with no expectations at all. I was surprised and delighted to be selected as a finalist, but I never imagined in a million years that I would win.
A fabulous photo by Isaac Paul won the Reader’s Choice Award for receiving the most votes on Facebook. His was a colourfully lit and evocative image of a man playing a saxophone in a funeral home. It was beautifully done and the other eight photos were all splendid as well. I was honoured to be in their company.
I am indebted to my friends, family, fellow photographers and contacts from all over for supporting me through votes, shares and encouraging comments about the photo. It really was quite enough for me to be voted in the Top Ten — to go on to win one of the two top prizes was just so much extra whipped cream on the ice cream!
A special shout out to grandson Declan, an active and adorable little guy who is always on the move, and who gives me so many reasons to pick up the camera and capture his antics. And huge thanks to his parents and sister, who moved to the Northwest Territories a few years ago, and who welcomed us for a visit that allowed us to see more of our fabulous country North of Sixty with them.
The award comes with a cash prize and inclusion in an exhibition at the end of the year with all the other winners. I look forward to attending that.
And a final word: I know that many of you reading this and checking in on my blog from time to time are fine photographers with wonderful bodies of work to your credit. I know because I follow you too and I am endlessly inspired by your creativity and artistry.
You should consider entering a contest from time to time — credible ones with themes that you resonate with, of course. If you are Canadian, there are 10 more months to enter the Macleans’ Great Canadian Photo Contest. Each month has a different theme. March is food.
You probably think, as I did, that you don’t stand a chance, but you never know, it just might be your time to take home a prize!
Sherrygaley.com 
Congratulations.
Awesome!! Congratulations to you!! You already know how much I love this but I’ll say it again..I LOVE this!
Thank you very much Kathy; you have always been so encouraging of my efforts with a camera!
Debbie, so kind of you to drop in and celebrate with me. It was a nice gift. Our best to both of you!
It is still there! Many thanks Mary Lou — such a good friend you are…
Thank you!
Congratulations Sherry!
That is a great picture.
Kathy
On Sat, Mar 11, 2017 at 12:35 PM, Sherrygaley.com wrote:
> Sherry Galey posted: ” Gobsmacked is the word I would use to describe how > I felt when I was notified that my picture of Declan (above) won the > Editor’s Choice award of Macleans Magazine’s Great Canadian Photo Contest > for the month of February. It’s a good word; I know it wel” >
Hi Sherry,
Wow! This is fabulous news. I am so happy for you. Absolutely beautiful photo and very much deserving of the award.
What a nice gift to receive as we battle the last weeks of winter.
Take care & give our best to Bob.
Deb & Bob
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Congratulations!! And again!! What a wonderful accolade. I hope your ‘gobsmacked’ smile stays put for a long time.
Congratulations
Thanks for taking the time to drop by and share those supportive words, Joan! Others are very encouraging to me — just trying to pay it forward.
That is very kind, Leo!
Aw, Leon, you are so sweet. Thank you!
Wow, thanks, Joe, for your great support. Means a lot!
You are so kind Kate!
Never! I have high expectations of you…
Thank you Laurie! Really appreciate your encouragement.
We are such a mutual admiration society! You are always there for me Cheryl and I truly appreciate it!
Thank you Lisa for your kind comment!
Well, not as famous as you Ginny, but I’m working on it, LOL!
How wonderful for you. So proud to know such an award winning photographer and your always so encouraging to others. Best always. Joan
Sent from my iPhone
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That is AWESOME Sherry!!!!! Huge congrats! You are famous! _________________________
Ginny Fobert (613) 852-3132
>
I remember seeing this photo when you first published it. It captures so much: the drama of the scene, the freedom, joy and energy of the child, the light, the sky – fantastic. The win is much deserved !!
On Sat, Mar 11, 2017 at 12:35 PM, Sherrygaley.com wrote:
> Sherry Galey posted: ” Gobsmacked is the word I would use to describe how > I felt when I was notified that my picture of Declan (above) won the > Editor’s Choice award of Macleans Magazine’s Great Canadian Photo Contest > for the month of February. It’s a good word; I know it wel” >
Congratulations, Sherry!!
This is so truly well-deserved.
Sherry I am so happy for you that you won…and Declan also. He is a star now and a happy go lucky one at that…
It is a beautiful and telling photo…with bright colors and good cheer…
Congratulations to both of you…now print it on a canvas.
Wow, Sherry – this is fabulous news! And a great photo – I can see why the Editor chose it. Well done, and congratulations!
Sherry, that’s wonderful! Congratulations!
Don’t know why you were so surprised. I wasn’t in the least! I have faith in the Maclean’s judges. 😉
And thanks a heap for telling all your photog followers to enter the Maclean’s contest. My chance to win one have now plummeted! 😩
I am so excited for you!! So well deserved. Congratulations.
This is an awesome image Sherry 😀 Congratulations !
Thanks so much Roberto for your vote of confidence! I don’t know about award-winning photos but I sure am enjoying the beauty of this amazing place with and without the camera…
Thank you, Mary! Isn’t that the truth…
Congrats Sherry! I love this photo as it is all boy doing his thing!
Great picture Sherry, I was sure it would win ! I’m sure you will capture more winning pictures as we enjoy Spain together !