Life of TXK Photo Contest Sponsored by State Bank
Overall Winner (ON THE COVER)
Sports Photography
Athletes, teams, and moments of competition that capture the energy, intensity, and emotion of sports in the Texarkana area. Sports photography often requires quick reflexes, fast shutter speeds, and precise timing to freeze peak action and tell the story of the game.
“Chip Shot” by Annie Smith
Inspiration
This was actually my very first time photographing golf, so I went in knowing nothing except the fact that I wanted to capture a unique shot. I started noticing how the sand would spray into the air when players chipped out of the bunker, and that moment really inspired me. I moved to the opposite side of the green to compose my photo and waited for another golfer to land in the sand trap.
Name
Annie Smith
Age
17
Day Job
Student at Texas High School
Camera
Canon R6 Mark II
STATE BANK SELECTION
Low-Light Photography
Events, landmarks, people, and moments in the Texarkana area captured in the quiet hours of early morning or after dark. Low-light photography often requires longer exposure times, higher ISO settings, wider apertures, and manual focus for greater control and clarity.
“Land of Plenty” by Nick Duke
Inspiration
I have always liked photographing rural landscapes. Grain bins, barns, and old farm equipment all make great subjects. This particular bin is not far from my house, so I have photographed it several times in different conditions. One morning, I drove by on the way to work and noticed an almost full moon setting over the fields. I thought if I could get a full moon aligned over the bin, it might make a good picture. A couple of nights later, the moon was full. I got there early, set up my camera, and waited as the moon slowly made its way toward the grain bin. I was there for close to an hour and took probably 50 pictures, but this one was my favorite.
Name Nick Duke
Age 54
Day Job
Rental Manager at Scott Equipment
Camera
Sony A7R III
Photojournalism
Real moments that document life, events, and stories within the Texarkana community. Photojournalism focuses on authenticity and storytelling, capturing candid scenes with minimal interference or manipulation to preserve the truth of the moment.
“Americana” by Michael Wells
Inspiration
As I have branched into the varying genres of photography, my goals began to reveal themselves over the years. When it comes down to it, I love to tell a story. With this particular photo, the likeness of Old Glory’s red, white, and blue with the incredible up-and-coming country musician, Lane Bricker, deep in focus on his craft speaks to determination, perseverance, and Americana.
Name
Michael Wells
Age
27
Day Job
Technology Teacher at Martha and Josh Morriss Mathematics and Engineering Elementary School
Camera
Canon EOS M6 Mark II
Macro Photography
Close-up images that reveal the intricate details of small subjects found in and around the Texarkana area. Macro photography highlights texture, pattern, and form, often using specialized lenses or settings to bring tiny elements into sharp, larger-than-life focus.
“Soft in Bloom” by Hannah Milhorn
Inspiration
I am inspired by the small details, especially in spring when everything feels soft and full of texture. This was a simple moment that stood out to me.
Name
Hannah Milhorn
Age
30
Day Job
Full-Time Photographer and Mom
Camera
Nikon Z 6II
Smartphone Photography
Images captured using mobile devices that emphasize accessibility, spontaneity, and composition. Smartphone photography uses technology to automatically enhance light, detail, and clarity, allowing high-quality images without traditional equipment. It removes barriers, making it easier to capture meaningful moments.
“Then, Now” by James Gillihan
Inspiration
I am a huge fan of black and white photography (Ansel Adams, Anthony Schmidt, etc.). My dad was very nostalgic. He loved old people, old places, and old things, and that is where I get it from. When I passed the museum that night, it reminded me of riding down Texas Boulevard as a kid and seeing the cars on display in the windows. Good memories inspire great images, and great images bring back good memories.
Name
James Gillihan
Age
48
Day Job
Material Examiner, DLA at Red River Army Depot
Camera
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Wildlife Photography
Animals captured in their natural habitats throughout the Texarkana area showcase behavior, personality, and the beauty of the natural world. Wildlife photography requires patience, timing, and respect for the subject’s environment.
“Oh no. I’m caught!” by Robert J. Haley
Inspiration
I love animals and enjoy capturing them in their natural environment. This little guy was happily eating until he saw me. Then he paused and looked at me as if he were in trouble. The look on his face was priceless! I took his photo, then eased away as he resumed his dinner.
Name
Robert J. Haley
Age
56
Day Job
Chief Information Officer at Collom & Carney Clinic
Camera
Canon R8
Aerial/Drone Photography
Photographs taken from above that offer a unique perspective of the Texarkana area. Aerial and drone photography highlight patterns, scale, and landscape in ways not visible from the ground, often revealing new and compelling viewpoints.
“Gator Raid” by Eric Ethridge
Inspiration
Alligators can be hard to photograph because they sit so low to the ground and do not provide many action opportunities. They also blend into the scenery at eye level. I wanted to see what they looked like from above, and I was surprised to find how contrasting they are from that angle. This photo offered a unique symmetry.
Name
Eric Ethridge
Age
42
Day Job
City of Texarkana, Arkansas Media Manager
Camera
DJI Mavic 3
