When we invited readers to submit their digital images of playground equipment after featuring the photography of Brenda Biondo earlier this summer, the enthusiastic response inundated our inboxes.
Few things are more iconic than the slides, seesaws, swings and jungle gyms that universally define childhood. Biondo reviewed all the entries and chose her six favorites. Here they are, with her comments.
Best Overall Photo
Deb Heier
Denver Beach Court Elementary School, Denver
Biondo: I like the repeating pattern in the shadows and how the curve of the top part of the dome follows the outline of the trees in the background. The geodomes are still fairly common on playgrounds but probably won’t be for much longer.
Most Creative Viewpoint
Collin Kallery, age 12, Castle Rock
Buffalo Ridge Elementary School Park, Castle Rock
Biondo: This viewpoint of a series of rings takes my eye right to the horizon. It also makes me appreciate the challenge the kids face getting to the end!
Best Digitally Manipulated
Christine Zipps, Aurora
Mission Viejo Elementary School, Aurora
Biondo: I really like the bold pattern, strong color, striking contrast and unusual angle of this shot.
Best Abstract
Collin Kallery, age 12, Castle Rock
Buffalo Ridge Elementary School Park, Castle Rock
Biondo: The net looks more like a weaving from this angle, and I like the wispy nature of the clouds.
Best Photo with Children
Jeff Spotts, Highlands Ranch Columbine Elementary School, Boulder
Biondo: You get a sense of motion from how the kids are positioned on this piece of equipment. The colors are great too. I also like the unusual aspect of the kids facing away from the camera.
Best Photo of Unusual Equipment
Jackie Solt, Denver
Asbury Park Elementary School
Biondo: I’ve only seen this type of equipment in Denver — and I’ve never seen it painted like this.
