College of Education and Behavioral Sciences News

WKU junior named WHNPA Student Video Photographer of the Year

Thursday, February 22nd, 2024

WKU Visual Journalism and Photography student Brett Phelps, a junior from Bardstown, has earned national recognition from the White House News Photographers Association®.

Phelps, the web visuals editor for the Talisman and a double major in Photography and Strategic Marketing, was named the WHNPA Student Video Photographer of the Year in the association’s annual ‘Eyes of History®’ visual journalism competition student contest judging.

When told about his win by Student Video Chair Bethany Swain, Phelps said, “I am truly honored to have my work celebrated by this prestigious organization and to join a group of individuals I consider heroes in this profession. To be awarded this distinction is immensely humbling, and it reinforces my passion for bringing compelling visual stories to light through the lens of my camera.”

Phelps also placed first in Sports, second in Vertical Social Video, Single, and honorable mention in Long Form Feature. Phelps’ entry included 48 Minutes; A New Road To Travel; Like Father, Like Son; and 48 Minutes Vertical Trailer.

The student contest winners will be honored at the annual ‘Eyes of History®’ gala on June 1 in Washington.

The White House News Photographers Association® is a 103-year-old non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of Washington’s professional visual journalists. The WHNPA aims to provide professional and educational outreach to its members and the community through scholarships, programming, an annual competition and a celebration of the industry at the annual ‘Eyes of History®’ gala.