Key Takeaways from the SkyPixel 8th Annual Photo & Video Contest
- This year, submissions for the SkyPixel contest skyrocketed, doubling to over 65,000 entries from a diverse array of contributors.
- The central theme, “The Story Behind,” inspired participants to share heartfelt narratives alongside their visual artistry.
- Notable winners included Bashir Abu Shakra for his poignant video “Why I Travel the World Alone” and Khánh Phan for her enchanting photograph “Floral Dress.”
- Winners received impressive prizes, including the prestigious Hasselblad 907X Anniversary Edition Kit, valued at over USD $15K.
- The contest showcased not only technical skill but also creativity and personal reflections, drawing attention to global stories captured from the skies.
SkyPixel Announces Winners of Its 8th Annual Photo & Video Contest
March 3, 2023 – SkyPixel, a prominent name in the aerial photography community, is thrilled to reveal the winners of its 8th Annual Photo & Video Contest, co-hosted with DJI. This year’s competition saw an impressive surge in participation, with over 65,000 entries submitted—an increase of 120% from the previous year. The event fostered creativity among a diverse range of participants, who ranged from seasoned professionals to emerging talents, all eager to showcase their unique visual stories.
The Power of Narratives
The remarkable turnout is largely attributed to the contest’s evocative theme, “The Story Behind.” Participants were encouraged to delve into what resonated with them, sharing not just visuals but the deeper reflections that accompanied their submissions. Entrants captured mesmerizing visuals across genres—from breathtaking nature shots and dynamic travel experiences to vibrant city scenes and thrilling sports moments. One particularly striking submission showcased a black-necked crane soaring over Yamdrok Lake, a protected species inhabiting the Tibetan plateau. Similarly, another submission revealed the enchanting landscapes and cultures of Papua New Guinea, underscoring the harmony found in diverse ecosystems.
Evaluating the Creativity
A distinguished panel of industry professionals judged the contest entries. This year’s panel boasted accolades including Academy Award-winning cinematographer Claudio Miranda and Anne Farrar, the Assistant Managing Editor of Photography for National Geographic Magazine. After thorough deliberation, the panel proudly declared the winners for the year.
Celebrated Works
8th Annual Best Work Prize – Video: “Why I Travel the World Alone” by Bashir Abu Shakra
The prize for best video was awarded to Bashir Abu Shakra for his captivating work, “Why I Travel the World Alone.” This autobiographical piece intertwines picturesque mountain vistas with personal childhood footage, reflecting his journey filled with challenges and aspirations. Judge Jingping Yu remarked on Shakra’s ability to convey beauty and introspection, highlighting artistry that goes beyond mere visuals. Shakra disclosed that the video represents four years of intensive work, stating, “Hundreds of pieces of footage had to be compressed into only four minutes of video.”
8th Annual Best Work Prize – Photo: “Floral Dress” by Khánh Phan
The best photo award went to Khánh Phan for her striking image, “Floral Dress.” Captured from above, the photograph depicts two women gracefully harvesting water lilies, creating a floating palette of white and magenta blooms. Judge Anne Farrar praised the photo’s excellent composition and color harmony, noting its calming beauty. Khánh Phan expressed her intent to pay tribute to her ancestors, who have long engaged in the tradition of water lily picking.
Exciting Awards for Winners
Both Bashir Abu Shakra and Khánh Phan will be honored with over USD $15,000 in prizes, including the coveted Hasselblad 907X Anniversary Edition Kit, a trophy, and a certificate of achievement. This support aims to propel their creative ventures and inspire those around them.
Other winners across categories received fantastic prizes to celebrate their contributions. The top 10 winners in both photo and video categories were awarded the DJI Mavic 3 Fly More Combo (DJI RC Pro), with additional prizes for nominated and people’s choice winners.
Discover More Outstanding Works
For those interested in exploring the winning submissions, the official SkyPixel website features links to the remarkable photos and videos captured during the contest. The collaborative spirit of the SkyPixel community continues to thrive, reminding us all of the beauty and creativity present in our world.
About SkyPixel and DJI
SkyPixel, established in 2014, is a premier global community dedicated to aerial photographers and videographers. With over 42 million registered users, the platform extends its resources to facilitate creativity and collaboration. DJI, a pioneer in civilian drone technology since 2006, remains committed to empowering individuals and enhancing human progression through innovative aerial solutions. For those inspired to create, the SkyPixel and DJI platforms offer endless possibilities.
