Photographer chooses her top 10 photos of the year
Editor’s note: Union Democrat photographer Shelly Thorene had a busy year keeping up with fires, storms and protests along with the lighter side of life including fairs, festivals and parades. Below are her favorite photos of the year.
1. Washington Fire — The reporter, Giuseppe Ricapito, and I had just gotten to the intersection of Highway 108 and
South Washington Street and I saw this woman heading away from the fire on a bicycle. I have covered fires before but this one scared me. There were explosions and the fire jumped over Washington Street while we were there. This image speaks to me of vulnerability.
2. Dia de Los Muertos — In this image you can see the juxtaposition of modern technology (the cell phone) and a time honored cultural ceremony.
3. Rapp’s Run — In this photo, friends celebrate a win, but it was determined later the race was tied.
4. Sheriff’s Posse — This portrait is a favorite of mine because it shows the pride of an older woman continuing to do what she loves.
5. Mother Lode Fair — The fair is a photographer’s dream come true. The relationship of the children and their animals always touches my heart.
6. Calaveras County Frog Jump — I am relatively new to the area and had never been to the frog jump. The event is fun to photograph and this image of a father with his daughter is my favorite.
7. Freedom Rally — This event turned volatile, and I was just a few feet from the fight that occurred. At times like this, a photographer just keeps clicking away.
8. Polar Express — The train ride was a first for me and this little girl captured my attention in this magical moment when she reached over to touch the story book.
9. Camp Hope closure — I sometimes use my cell phone instead of my large, digital 35mm camera as a way to be less intrusive. I try to strike a balance between telling the story and being respectful to the subject.
10. Jaron Brandon, Bull of the Woods — I have photographed county supervisors in El Dorado County and here in Tuolumne County and can honestly say never before had I been given the opportunity to see one in a boxing match on a log. Just when you think you’ve seen it all!