"Ducks," "Daphne on the Beach," and "Dusty Evening !!!" were chosen as our February winners. Congratulations to Eloj Lugnani, Frank Somma, and Aung Pyae Soe!

Here's a look at February's winners, along with some comments from the judges. Clicking on any image will open a larger version in a new window.

The judges really liked the composition on this one, the way the ducks were isolated from any background. It's undoubtedly been processed a fair bit, but the net result doesn't look at all artificial, a common complaint of the judges against highly processed images. The fact that it's black and white in this case also adds to the composition: A color version of this shot undoubtedly wouldn't be as strong compositionally, as the color would compete with the composition set up by the light and dark tones. Very nicely done, a great combination of shooting and image editing.

The judges like the unusual overhead angle of this shot, the contrast between Daphne's bright red outfit and the cool greens and blues of the water, and also the transitions of color, detail, and tone in the water as it approaches the beach. There's a lot of action, but it's focused and contributes, rather than distracting. Finally, the footprints on the beach make a nice leading element, to guide your eyes to the main subject. The net result is a deceptively simple image, but one with lots of texture and richness that drew our eyes to it again and again.

Composition, color and tone all work together in this shot, with the glow of the sun on the dust beautifully highlighting the cart-driver and his animals. We wondered if the rich, golden hues were the result of image editing, but it doesn't matter: The effect is very natural and evocative of a dusty Summer or Fall evening. The local composition of the driver, cart, and animals is excellent as well. The driver's raised arm and switch frame his head, and draw attention to him as the main subject. Very nicely executed all around.

Thirty Mile Point in Winter	Lighting	Splash
by Gerri Jones	by Marius Popa	by Dave Panek

There you have it: 28 great Photos of the Day, with three exceptional ones capturing top honors - so what are you waiting for? That could be your photo up there this time next month! Dig through your digital shoe boxes, pick your best and join the fun!