Noel Chenier/Telegraph-Journal
A colorful Vanessa Belyea poses for a photograph outside the Hampton Courthouse after taking part in the Hampton High Graduation Grand March on Monday evening. - Noel Chenier (admin)

From:	Noel Chenier (admin)	(Fri 23 Jun 2006 08:50:27 AM PDT)
So this photo made a lot of people in Hampton unhappy, because they felt she wasn't a proper representation of the school...most likely they were more upset their daughters in their prom dresses didn't make the paper... thoughts?

From:	Ayoka Bubar (abubar)	(Sat 24 Jun 2006 04:58:55 PM PDT)
If they hated the picture, I feel bad for how they probably treat the person IN the picture...I've seen a million generic prom pictures, they're boring.

From:	(nleblanc)	(Mon 03 Jul 2006 06:45:10 PM PDT)
Noel I think it's a great shot. It is bright and truthful and is a slightly different look at the artifically sweetened prom scene. I like it, alot. Imagine people in 2006 shying away from a little punk rock prom happiness. I guess that is blue collar NB for you!

From:	Georges (glong)	(Tue 04 Jul 2006 05:33:49 PM PDT)
My comment part 1: Anthony Adams stated: "Photography should be an internal process. The subject should stir emotions in the photographer." The subject in your shot must have stirred in your emotions because she stood out – caught your eye and got your interest. Probably without saying a single word, this young lady told the world “look at my colors of true expression and sense of accomplishment” - no question it was a Kodak moment.

From:	Georges (glong)	(Tue 04 Jul 2006 05:34:04 PM PDT)
My comment part 2: Photographs are supposed to stir up emotions for both photographer and viewer. These emotional responses as you know, can be diverse. Of course there will be misinterpretation, especially if a photograph lacks information and context. I have read the text in the Telegraph Journal below your photograph and found both text and context of the story well balance so why the big fuss? Would it be because of conservative or traditional views were not respected (i.e. typical prom photo)? Who knows. Viewers will have opinions. As a photographer, you have no control what they may think or say about your work. At the end of the day, if you are happy with the shot, that's all it matters. p.s. I personaly like the photograph because it is “unique” - one of the kind. Good work.

From:	Linda Morehouse (lmorehouse)	(Sat 08 Jul 2006 01:04:53 PM PDT)
This photo is what the art of photography should do in my opinion-generate a sense of awe. Wonderful. I can't take my eyes off it.