C. Aluka Berry named 2008 SCNPA POY

State photographer Chris Aluka Berry was named the 2008 South Carolina News Photographers Association’s Photographer of the Year during The 60th annual Southern Short Course in News Photography seminar held in Charlotte, NC. Gerry Melendez of the State was runner-up and Alan Hawes, Charleston Post and Courier, took third place.

Ken Ruinard of the Anderson Independent-Mail was the SCNPA clip contest Photographer of the Year. Sefton Ipock, Anderson Independent-Mail was runner-up. Gerry Melendez, The State was third.

Berry also received Best in Show for his feature story on Wateree Correctional Institution inmate, Joshua Reynolds, titled “Second Chances.”

The State took Staff of the Year.

I also forgot to post the illustration winners. There where only two honorable mention awards in the category. Tim Dominick, The State  for his “Connected” illustration and Rebecca J. Ducker, Florence Morning News for her  ”religion in sports.”

Congratulations to all the winners! The judges had great things to say about the work. I hope to post the judges comments soon.

Gerry