Picture captures memories

A visit with his 98-year-old grandfather in Uvalde, Texas during the summer of 2010 provided Robert Gomez with both a cherished memento and a prize-wining photograph for the FotoWeek DC International Awards Competition.

Gomez's portrait of his grandfather, Daniel Gonzales, won third place in the Student Single Image category and will be on display from Nov. 4-12 in Washington D.C at the fourth annual FotoWeek Central festival. Gomez, a first time photo competition entrant who learned about the contest from a friend, said he never thought he would win, but is now inspired to enter more competitions.

"Photo competitions are a good way for photographers to get their work noticed," Gomez said.

The FotoWeek DC website lists its annual festival, where winning photos are displayed, as its biggest event, having received more than 40,000 visitors in 2010. Having their work on display on the organization's website, also provides exposure for student winners such as Gomez.

Currently studying history at the University of Texas at Austin, Gomez has completed the requirements for an associate of applied science in photographic technology at Austin Community College.

"ACC has an excellent photography department," he said. "Students don't need to go to a major university. ACC prepares you to start working in the field."

Gomez said that the images produced by ACC students can stack up against the work of any professional.

Upon completion of his education, Gomez said he plans to run his own business specializing in commercial photography, and perhaps use the history degree that he is pursuing as part of a teaching career in the future.

Gomez said his interest in photography goes back to when he started taking pictures in high school and that he has always had a passion for photography. He pursued that passion during the four years he spent in the Air Force before coming to ACC.

"During my travels I always had a camera with me," Gomez said.

Having a camera with him last summer in Uvalde, Texas, allowed Gomez to capture that specific moment in time with his grandfather which was one of their last together. Daniel Gonzales died this past July. Looking back on that time they spent together, Gomez said, "I'm glad I was able to make the time for that visit."

Gomez's work may be viewed online at www.robertggomez.com

For information about FotoDC Week's festivals and competitions, and to view the work of competition winners visit www.fotoweekdc.org .