Jay Korff-The winners offered us brave, important journalism melded with lush images of far-off lands. However, at times these stories fell victim to slow, flat storytelling.

Joel Eagle-The two stories that placed came from the same photojournalist. The stories were well shot, and well executed, although they sometimes lacked emotion where emotion was present. The other entrants in this category needed to concentrate more on their shooting fundamentals and storytelling techniques.

Regina McCombs-The debate in this category centered on the importance of story vs. the importance of the strength of the photography. There seemed to be a divide in the entries: Some stories were well shot but lacked heart. Others were wonderful stories with good emotional connections, but the photography wasn’t what it needed to be. In the end, the photography won the day.

Erica Simpson-Good, solid shooting for the first- and second-place entries.

Mark Morache-The two stories that won displayed a great attention to detail. The shots were memorable. There was sequencing and great natural sound. I love the detail in the Romania story about the dysfunctional elevator. It's great journalism.