This image is of a student-athlete, Cameron Sturgell, who was not only a 4.0 student at Missouri University of Science & Technology but also an all-conference linebacker for the football team. Cameron has the unique major of mining engineering, along with a minor in explosives engineering. The blend of his academic focus and success, along with his on-field performance, created an opportunity to show how unique our school and programs are. I worked with Cameron, his coach, and one of our explosives professors to coordinate a day to create the amazing images. Staff at the mine pitched in to move boulders, set lines for the explosives, and manage the detonations. I used a series of three different cameras, with one camera triggering the other two using remotes. Each of the cameras was wirelessly synced to different sets of strobes. The setup allowed me to maximize each of the explosions and create photos with different focal lengths and light. I also set up two video cameras to record the explosions. The work was used as a news piece during football season, in our new welcome center, in some of our recruiting materials, in an annual report, and on social media. It was also used to promote Homecoming to our miner alumni.
From the Judges
This photo stands out because it blends real, high-stakes practical effects with meticulous, creative intent, using actual explosives to ground the image in authenticity. Every detail reinforces the story, while the flawless technical execution and the subject’s expressive presence elevate the photo into an award-worthy piece.
