Thoughts on the Critical Mass 52

Today, the 52 finalists have been announced in the Critical Mass competition. You can see the list, the rules, and the voting techniques here.

I looked at 180 portfolios which had 10 photographs in each. Of these 180 portfolios, I gave 14 of them a WOW score, the highest score possible and 38 of them a YES+ score, which is the second highest score possible. Out of the ones that I gave a WOW and a YES+, a total of fifty two, 19 were included in the Top 52. Not bad.

I must admit that there were quite a few surprises and a few disappointments.

I was very surprised not to see the following in the top 52:
Hollis Bennett
Ian van Coller
Elizabeth Fleming
Natalie Young
Susana Raab

All of the above showed very strong work, and if I were to single out one person, it would be Hollis Bennett whose work was quite amazing and I think a bit under the radar and seriously under priced (buy it now).

I plan on contacting all 14 photographers whom I gave a WOW vote to, so that I can showcase them here on Fraction. I also plan on writing about the lack of personal vision/style. There was a lot of work that looked alike and I'm not the only one who thinks so. But that is for later.

For now, congrats to the 52 finalists.