Spot News Photography (under 25,000 circulation)

Winner: Bob Tymczyszyn, St. Catharines Standard

Tymczyszyn shot a captivating, well-composed photo that was the most memorable of the entrants this year. It tells the story of increased hiking injuries in the region during the pandemic — and, in an unexpected way, highlights the fact that no area of life has gone untouched by COVID-19.

Niagara Falls firefighters along with Niagara EMS and Parks police rescue a man who was rock climbing in the area of the Niagara Glen when he fell July 27, 2020, seriously inuring his foot. Bob Tymczyszyn/St. Catharines Standard

Runner-up: Cory Smith, Stratford Beacon Herald

The ability to gain access to a private, emotional moment is important for a news photographer, and this was achieved in the middle of a pandemic with this photo. Smith delivered a powerful shot of a young patient receiving news she would finally get to see her American fiancé after months of waiting and a letter-writing campaign.

Twenty-five-year-old Sarah Campbell of Stratford, Ont., reacts Oct. 3, 2020, while watching the press conference announcing the federal government’s move to broaden the definition of essential family, a decision that would allow her to see her British fiance Jacob Taylor for the first time since February 2020. Cory Smith/Stratford Beacon Herald

Runner-up: Elliot Ferguson, Kingston Whig-Standard

Ferguson captured a somewhat classic breaking-news photo of a downtown flea market fully engulfed by flames. It’s easy to take the effort needed to turn in a shot like this for granted, but Ferguson showed strong news instincts and dedication here.

Firefighters watch flames spew out the upper floor windows Dec. 8, 2020, as fire destroyed the former flea market building in Kingston, Ont. Elliot Ferguson/Kingston Whig-Standard

Go to list of winners

2020 ONAs: Spot News Photography (under 25,000 circulation)