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Always alert by Luis Alberto Poma Criollo

In 'Always alert,' the photographer captures a poignant close-up of a bee, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on the vital role these pollinators play in our global ecosystem. By focusing on the intricate details of such a small subject, the image highlights the profound beauty found in the natural world. The composition emphasizes the bee's presence, serving as a visual reminder of the urgent need for environmental stewardship. This award-worthy shot succeeds by transforming a fleeting, everyday encounter into a compelling narrative about sustainability and the interconnectedness of life.

Always alert by Luis Alberto Poma CriolloAlways alert by Luis Alberto Poma Criollo
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
Copyright Β© Luis Alberto Poma Criollo
Light & Composition Photo of the Day

Luis Alberto Poma Criollo

REGISTERED PHOTOGRAPHER

Based in Lima, Luis Alberto Poma Criollo is a dedicated photographer who documents the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of Peru. His work spans from the majestic peaks of the Andes to the vibrant traditions of local festivities, reflecting a deep commitment to storytelling. By exploring the intersection of natural beauty and cultural richness, he creates evocative imagery that celebrates the spirit of his homeland and the delicate ecosystems within it.

Profile View Full Profile
8.7/20
RESONANCE
SCORE
102/500
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Award Reach | Reviews
3,377 views | 5 Reviews
Award Winner Photo of the Day
Award Date August 27, 2023
63.0
AWARD SCORE
Value 11.0
Clarity 12.0
Composition 17.0
Style 12.0
Skill 11.0
Photograph Location
Lima, Peru

AWARD SEGMENT | TAGS

Black & White Photography
Luis Alberto Poma Criollo Photography

Resonance Score Breakdown

Transparency in Award Scoring

Transparency Note: The resonance score (8.4/20) is calculated based on social engagement metrics collected before the award announcement.

Social Shares
2.4/5 points
474/1,000 Social Share
Page Views
5.0/5 points
3,377/2,500 Page View
Reviews
0.0/5 points
0/100 Review
Submissions
1.0/5 points
102/500 Submission
Jury Score: 63.0/80
Resonance Score: 8.4/20
Total Award Score: 71.4/100

Expert Photography Reviews · 5

Marcus Trent Human Truth, Documentary & The Decisive Moment Expert Review
You’ve caught a moment of quiet intensity here. It’s easy to overlook the small, but you forced us to stop and look this bee in the eye. I felt a sudden, sharp jolt of respect for its frantic, tiny life. Because you waited, we’re forced to acknowledge a world that doesn't care about our human schedules. It’s honest work. You didn't just snap a bug; you captured a heartbeat. That’s what matters.
Thomas Hargreaves Earned Photographs, Craft Discipline & the Long Wait Expert Review
Macro photography is often a game of luck, yet one wonders how many hours were spent hovering over that petal before the bee finally settled. It’s a sharp, clean capture, though I’d prefer a bit more grit in the texture. Still, I’ve spent enough mornings shivering in damp fields to respect the stillness required here. It’s not an easy shot to pull off with a phone. He clearly waited for his moment. Well done.
Sophie Delacroix Emotional Narrative, Viewer Response & Psychological Impact Expert Review
Before the eye identifies the bee, a sudden stillness settles in the chest. It’s the tension of that singular, jagged wing, caught in a vibration I can almost feel against my own skin. I’ve returned to this frame three times today; each time, the creature’s frantic, armored alertness makes me hold my breath. It’s a small, sharp reminder of how fragile our shared pulse really is. I find myself checking the air around me.
Clara Whitfield Award Criteria, Legacy & What Makes an Image Endure Expert Review
Most macro shots of insects are clinical, but this one feels urgent. I’ve seen thousands of bug close-ups, and they’re usually just technical exercises. What separates this is the bee’s gaze; it’s looking right at us, demanding accountability. It’s a small, fragile life caught in sharp focus. Honestly, it makes me feel a bit guilty for how often we ignore these tiny architects. In thirty years, this reminder of what we’re losing will matter immensely.
James Rokeby Camera Craft & Technical Execution Expert Review
f/1.9 at 4.74mm, 1/100s, ISO 100. A mobile sensor struggling against physics. The Xiaomi’s aggressive sharpening algorithms have turned the bee’s thorax into a digital smear. It’s a technical compromise that fails the subject. I’ve spent years analyzing optics, and it’s frustrating to see such a vital insect rendered as a noisy, over-processed artifact. The intent was macro, but the hardware wasn't up to the task. It’s a missed opportunity for actual clarity.
Reflections on this Photograph
By Amelia Cross

The Weight of the Small

There was a summer when the garden hummed with a frequency so constant it became the background music of my life. It was the sound of a thousand tiny wings, a vibration that felt like the earth itself was breathing.

Read the reflection →
By Marta Vidal

The Hum of Small Things

I keep a small, dried sprig of lavender pressed between the pages of a ledger from 1954. It has lost its scent, and the purple hue has faded into the color of dust, yet it remains a heavy anchor to a summer I never lived.

Read the reflection →

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