Fine art photographer Elaine H. Pearsons of Columbus has won first place for the black and white category in the Carolina Gallerys Photography Invitational, with her image, Having a Ball. Until recently, Pearsons has been known for her intensely colored images, as well as her form of hand-altered, dimensional work.

During the last year, working with Mike McCue on his new book project, Tryon Architecture and Landscape, Pearsons says she discovered that she was deeply moved when her chosen color photographs were converted into black and white. After 30 years of dedication to color, I now comprehend and rejoice in the wonder, beauty and elegance of the black and white form. Her winning image was taken at Tryons 2009 New Year’s Eve dropping of the ball at the clock tower on Trade Street.

To view all winning images from Carolina Gallery Invitational go to: http://www.carolinagalleryart.com/default2.asp, click on photo invitational and scroll down. The Carolina Gallery is located at 145 West Main Street, Spartanburg, S.C.