Voting in Axel’s Shoot-Out photo contest ends Friday

Oct. 16, 2022  |  By Waterbury Roundabout 

'Water Lily Reflection' photograph shot by Paul Haverstick, the 2021 Shoot-Out contest winner

The annual Shoot-Out photo contest at Axel’s Gallery and Frame Shop is down to the voting which closes this Friday with a winner to be announced that evening. 

The theme of the contest this year is “Reflections” chosen by Paul Haverstick, the 2021 Shoot-Out winner whose work was exhibited earlier this year.

The contest gives amateur photographers the opportunity to compete for the chance to win their own solo exhibition at the gallery. 

The public is invited to check out the entries on view now at the gallery and vote on their favorites by 5 p.m. on Friday. Voting can only happen in person, Aldrich noted. 

The winner will get the chance to exhibit their work in a three-month solo show in 2023 along with $700 in gift certificates. 

Winners will be announced at 7 p.m. on Friday during a reception at the gallery for contestants, friends, and photography enthusiasts. The free reception will run from 6 to 8 p.m. with snacks and refreshments. Aldrich said it’s a chance for the contenders to meet fellow photographers and enjoy “a little friendly but supportive competition.”

The contest began in 2018 as a way to tap into the community in search of photographic excellence among amateur photographers as camera technology has become ubiquitous, Aldrich explained.

Axel’s is open Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.