The White House News Photographers Association announced that freelance photographer Patrick Smith has been named “Photographer of the Year” and Brooks Kraft won “Political Photo of the Year” in the 2013 ‘The Eyes of History™’ contest judging at the National Geographic Society in Washington. “I am happy, humbled, and proud, to say the very least,” Smith said. “I am fortunate to work alongside and also compete with the very best photojournalists and editors who continually inspire me to document stories locally and nationally. I feel like Getty Images deserves the credit on this one – their trust, support and guidance has been unparalleled.” Kraft’s image of President Barack Obama speaking in the pouring rain during a campaign rally in Glen Allen, Va., was selected as Political Photo of the Year. Kraft said, “It’s a privilege for me to be recognized by my peers with this award in Washington, where there are so many talented political photographers. I am thankful that WHNPA has created a contest that showcases all the outstanding work done during a campaign year for the world to see.”
