

by Connie Oswald Stofko
I’ve visited the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens many times, but I see the gardens in a new way when I look at the winners of the 2013 photo contest.
The winners include some really creative shots that capture the stunning architecture of the gardens. You’ll also find portraits that are anything but posed and flowers that you can almost feel.
A dizzying, panoramic view of the dome by Brad Jones was awarded first place in the perspective category. That category includes views of the Botanical Gardens’ historic architecture.
One of my favorite photos is the darling cherub captured by Jillian Kenyon. She caught something that I’ve walked past many times and never really appreciated. She received second place in the perspective category.
Two reflections were honored in the portraits category. Chris Reisch captured a reflection in a Christmas tree ornament and Stephen Rinaldo captured a reflection in water. Very clever.

Nancy Boeck’s photo of a bee on a flower was chosen to be featured on the cover of the Botanical Gardens’ newsletter.
You can see all the 2013 photo winners here.
The deadline for the 2014 photo contest is Dec. 31. There will be new categories, which haven’t been finalized yet, but I got a peek at the draft and I think photographers will enjoy them. I’ll let you know when the application forms are available.


These photos are a great inspiration to me.. I love looking at photos that show a different view of things..
Fantastic photos. First place is really great.