Pulitzer Prize Winning Analysis

In this analysis, we analyzed a Pulitzer prize-winning photograph and photographer. We deconstructed the visual elements they chose to capture in their photograph, and the emotional impact on their image, and we dove into their photography history.

I chose Damon Winter’s photo of Barack Obama during his presidential campaign that he took for The New York Times. In the photo, Winter utilizes negative space in showing former president Barack Obama exiting the backstage for his rally at the University of Cincinnati. Using negative space creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, in not knowing who the person is yet understanding their importance with where they are heading. Winter also uses the rule of thirds, by having the main subject in the left-most portion of the frame. Another way Winter uses the rule of thirds is by having the color on the right-most side of the photo, and since in our culture we read left to right, we start on the left, then look towards the right towards the color. Winter also uses leading lines on the right-most part of the photo, as the curtain leads your eyes up toward the open arena and waiting crowd, and with the light on the left wall leading your eyes to Obama's outline.

Damon Winter has worked for the New York Times since May 2007. He works in documentary, editorial, and travel photography. His work on Obama’s campaign was his first time winning the Pulitzer Prize, yet he was a finalist in 2005. Winter has covered the last four presidential campaigns, conflicts in Israel and Afghanistan, the 9/11 Attacks, and several Olympic events.