WPS Awards Finalist 2021

​A man was going through a very difficult time in his life. He lost his job, his family, and all of his money. With nothing left to do, he decided to pray. "God, please let me win the lottery.” But the lottery came and he didn’t win. He prayed once again, “God, I know the chance of winning the lottery is low,
but I need it. Please let me win.” But once again the lottery came and went and he didn’t win.
At this point he started to get angry with God, “Listen here God, I need to win the lottery.
You owe me that much.” Suddenly light beams descend from the sky and God appears before him. God then said, “I’m doing everything I can. Could you meet me half way and actually buy a ticket?”

Sometimes I feel like I live like a man from the joke... 
Despite getting extremely positive feedback and beautiful reviews from my clients, as a wedding photographer, it feels nice to hear inspirational words from the industry itself. Winning an award 
for a hard work is ​a heartwarming feeling, but my problem is, I rarely (read: almost never) submit
​my work to competitions. Just like the man from the joke never actually bought a lottery ticket...

​This November, I have finally decided to do something! And guess what? Getting out of my comfort zone and going an extra mile got me rewarded - I have been selected as an official
Top 10 Finalist for the 'GIF' category.

Hosted by the world's biggest summit for wedding photographers, the WPS Awards recognizes talents, modern creatives and storytellers. With a guide that photography craft is a gift, their goal
is to inspire one another while expanding the horizons and personal growth. 

The big reason why I decided to participate in this contest as a destination wedding photographer is because all of the profits have been donated to charity. Ever since Covid-19 struck us, domestic violence reports have soared, so it is crucial that we extend the love and respect for one another. A total of $10,950 USD has been raised through this competition, and I can't be happier that I have contributed, knowing that someone in need ​will be getting that much needed support.

And now, drumrolls please! Here is the awarded GIF.

​Love,

Martina.