Student recognized in national photojournalism competition

By Lauren Lamb
University News Service
February 24, 2009

Colter Ray, a junior at Texas State University-San Marcos isn’t afraid to get down and dirty in the name of a good photograph. Ray was recently named the 12^th place finisher in the sports and news photojournalism category of the national Hearst Journalism Awards Program.

As the associate photographer for Texas State, Ray often photographs various sport and special events on campus. And while he loves to be close to the action, Ray said the most rewarding part of his job is finding a unique perspective to get the right photo.

“I’ve been known to lie on my stomach underneath the baseball stadium bleachers or use the catwalk above Strahan Coliseum to get a good shot,” he said.

But all his hard work isn’t just for personal gain said the public relations and recreation administration major from The Woodlands.

“Sure, I entered the Hearst competition because the recognition is good, but every time I get my name out there, I get Texas State’s name out there too, and that’s just as important to me,” said Ray. “I was pretty unsure of my chances of even placing, but I’d do it again because it’s a good opportunity for me and the school.”

When he isn’t photographing school events or doing freelance work, Ray serves as a student government senator, president of his residence hall and member of the Residence Hall Association.

So, does this student behind the lens aspire to be the next Ansel Adams? Not necessarily. “I’m sure I’ll always be doing something with the camera, but I actually hope to get in to community relations or sports marketing after graduation,” said Ray.