Clayton High School senior, Michael Noble, recently entered and a won a photography contest. He was awarded the Silver Key for both his portfolio and 4th of July photo, which is awarded to only 10 percent of all entries. Our Globe writer, Chris Sleckman, recently sat down and talked with him about it.
How did you become interested in photography?
I originally took pictures of cycling events. I liked the pictures after the race the most and then decided I wanted to pursue photography.
What process do you go through to get a good photo?
I usually like to have a story to go with my photo. So I find a story or subject I like and then I try and shoot it. If it turns out good, I consider that a success; if not, I try again. I try to refrain from editing or using Photoshop too much for my photos.
What contest did you recently enter and win?
I entered a scholastic scholarship contest. I was looking around for ways to earn scholarship money and all I had to do was submit 10 pictures for my portfolio. Then you can choose any individual picture to be entered in a different contest. And I just recently found out that I had won the Silver Key for both my portfolio and my 4th of July photo (pictured below). I also received some scholarship money.
 Tell me the story behind the award-winning picture.
My dad is a judge, and he thought that on top of the courthouse would be a good place to shoot. So we went up there on the 3rd of July and I saw that it had a perfect view of the Arch, so I decided it would be a good place. Then we went back there on the 4th of July, and I took the winning photo.
Do you plan on pursuing photography throughout college?
I plan on going to Western Kentucky University for photojournalism.
What type of photography is your favorite?
I like taking sports photography.
Do you have any advice for somebody interested in becoming a photographer?
It is fun activity to do; it takes a while to learn all of the camera settings, but once you do it is a really fun hobby or career.
(Photo by Michael Noble)
