The NCSR held a photo competition in October to celebrate the launch of the Centre’s new Flickr Account. A great number of entries were submitted and the competition called for photos to have a scientific context and preferably a sensors link. Deirdre Wynter and Katy Halpin from the DCU Communications and Marketing department, and Aoibheann Bird, Education and Outreach officer at CLARITY made up the judging panel. The standard of the entries was so high that in addition to choosing the three winning photos, the judges also selected two additional photos for a “highly commended” category.

The overall winner of the competition was Mercedes Vazques for her photo entitled: Place Tracking Nature Lanner Falcon with radio. The judges felt that the composition of the photo is startling. It shows true photographic skill and effort to have taken such a picture. It illustrates a balance of research and nature.

Kevin Fraser came in second place with his image: Device in action. The judges reasoned that this photo is a great example of a beautiful product shot, the light, composition and depth create an atmosphere where there wouldn’t normally be one. It shows the technical elements of research in a beautiful and creative way.

Fiachra Collins image Environmental sensing: Long-term monitoring of gas generated on a landfill facility won third prize. In this case the judges felt the photo is a fantastic composition. It shows the unidentifiable person battling the elements in order to carry out their work. The looming dark sky and harshness of their surroundings create a fantastic atmosphere for the viewer.

The two images that were rated highly commended came from Larisa Florea and Robert Wooley. For Larisa’s image the judges felt that the image is a beautiful composition. The contrast of colours and molecules create a vibrant and energetic image.

In the case of Robert’s image the judges stated that the 3d effect gives this otherwise typical lab scene an energy and excitement that would not have otherwise been present. The picture is accessible to people on so many levels.