Photo: Jennie Oko
“My dad [Gary Marquardt], was teaching my son Frank [now 15] how to drive an inboard boat, and it was a gorgeous night, so my mom and I decided to tag along for the lesson,” says Jennie Oko, explaining the photograph’s scenario. “My dad plays taps at sunset in Spring Park Bay, so he brought his trumpet and played from the boat that night. This picture was taken on the way home.”
It’s often interesting to understand what photographers appreciate about their photos. “I love the colors on the water, but I also really like what you can infer from the picture,” the Minnetrista resident says. “I think it’s clear that Frank’s a novice from his posture and the position of his hands on the wheel, and dad, sitting in the passenger seat wearing his captain’s hat, indicates that he’s passing the torch.”
Oko says, “What I appreciate the most though, is the memory of that night. My parents each have unique and important parts that they play in my kids’ lives, and learning about Lake Minnetonka and boating has always been a rite of passage with my dad.”
Photographer: Jennie Oko
Title: Life Lessons
Equipment: iPhone 15 Pro
Location: Black Lake
Category: People
Award: First Place
