All images copyright by the individual photographers

	Excess by David Bleich This is a dynamic and vivid aerial photograph of Midtown Manhattan featuring a dense concentration of skyscrapers and iconic architecture. The composition captures the vertical energy of Manhattan exceptionally well. The photo is tightly packed, emphasizing the density and scale of the city. The framing centers the viewer’s eye around Times Square and nearby major landmarks, creating a natural visual hub. There’s a compelling balance of newer skyscrapers with older, historic towers. The lighting is even and natural and the color balance is well-maintained. The image doesn’t feel overly saturated or washed out, preserving a realistic urban palette. There is excellent sharpness throughout. Individual buildings and textures are clearly defined, offering lots of detail for the viewer to explore. The image effectively conveys the vastness and vertical intensity of NYC. It speaks to urban power, architectural ambition, and city life on a grand scale. There’s a story here about progress, urban density, and the rhythm of modern life. This is a technically strong and visually rich cityscape that captures the essence of Midtown Manhattan’s architectural grandeur. It works well as a fine art print or it could be an editorial piece celebrating urban landscapes. By Don Menges
	To Dream is to Sleep by Steve Dent This black-and-white image has a beautifully serene and intimate atmosphere. The monochrome palette enhances the softness of the light and shadow interplay, creating a tranquil and timeless aesthetic. The contrast between the smooth textures of the blanket and the skin adds depth and dimension, guiding the viewer's eye naturally across the image. The pose is relaxed and natural, exuding a quiet vulnerability. The tattoo on the torso adds a point of intrigue-something that subtly disrupts the otherwise smooth gradients of tone. The image has a contemplative tone, using black and white to strip away distractions and focus on form, texture, and emotion. To Sleep is to Dream resonates well as a minimalist, introspective photograph. By Gil Maker
	111 San Miguel by Michael Shoemaker The amazing “colorful-ness” of Mexico is captured in this photograph of a weathered doorway. This photograph is a striking example of how bold color contrast and thoughtful composition can create an arresting visual experience. The green door set against the red wall instantly draws the viewer in, employing complementary colors to evoke a sense of vibrancy and energy. The placement of the door is well-considered—it commands attention while maintaining balance within the frame. Beyond color, the textural details enrich the photograph. The weathered look of the door, with its aged wood and visible imperfections, introduces character and history, while the textured red wall adds depth. These elements work together to create a sense of place, suggesting an environment with stories to tell. The presence of the small blue sign and white label offers subtle yet effective contrast, breaking up the dominant colors without overwhelming the composition. These additions provide a focal point for the eye to explore, adding layers to the narrative. This is a dynamic, well-executed composition that leaves a lasting impression. It engages the viewer through thoughtful use of color, texture, and balance, making it both visually appealing and emotionally resonant. By Steve Levinson
	Man with Floating Hat by Susan J. Smith Congratulations to Susan J. Smith who receives a Gallery Pick for Man with Floating Hat, which is part of her imaginative and heartfelt collection in the Neuberger Gallery.  Susan’s display depicts her artistic storytelling through travel photography. Man with Floating Hat, taken in Paris, France, evokes the surrealist spirt of the artist, René Magritte. With echoes of Magritte, this photograph reflects Susan’s gift for finding the extraordinary in the everyday. Through the skillful use of Photoshop, Susan transforms a fleeting street moment into a whimsical illusion, blending technical precision with artistic flair to make a bowler hat appear to hover magically above the subject’s head. What makes Susan’s display uniquely touching is her inclusion of handwritten postcards to her grandchildren---each paired with a message, a memory, and a stamp from the country of origin. In the postcard for this image, she writes, “I thought of you when I saw this fellow because you like art,” drawing a direct line between her explorations and the imaginative spark she hopes to pass on. Susan transforms travel into connection, and photography into legacy. Her work invites viewers to see the world through both the eyes of the photographer and the heart of a grandmother---where photography becomes a bridge between experience and memory. By Marie Costanza
	Life is But a Dream by d dargan teska This photograph by d dargan teska finds beauty in boats in Central Mexico which many would just walk by. This photograph is a vibrant, visually arresting piece that expertly balances color, texture, and composition to engage the viewer. The rich blue surface (and its imperfections/aging paint) serves as a dramatic backdrop, creating a strong foundation for the scattered leaves of yellow and green, which add contrast and depth. The interplay between these colors generates a sense of movement, as if the scene is alive with dynamic energy. The composition is thoughtfully arranged, guiding the viewer’s gaze through the image in an organic way. The placement of the leaves appears natural, allowing for a sense of spontaneity while maintaining visual harmony. There’s an inherent rhythm in the way the details are distributed across the frame, making it a photograph that reveals new nuances with each viewing. On an emotional level, the textured surface and scattered elements evoke curiosity and intrigue. The image invites the viewer to consider its story—where these elements originated, what they signify, and how they contribute to the overall atmosphere. It sparks contemplation, drawing the observer deeper into its details. Overall, this is a compelling and well-executed composition that successfully blends color theory, balance, and emotional resonance to create an image that leaves a lasting impression. It is not just a photograph but an experience—one that encourages exploration and reflection. By Steve Levinson