Observing Kit Briner’s first-prize-winning photograph from the 2024 Easton Photography contest is to imagine the photographer standing outside on a chilly April evening, watching clouds scud across a crescent moon. But wait: the stunning image Briner captured was actually taken in daytime, as he tracked the April 24 eclipse of the sun from his own backyard.
As per tradition, in September Briner presented his winning photograph, “Eclipse # 9,” to First Selectman David Bindelglass , who accepted it for permanent display in Easton Town Hall, where it joins past winners of the EAC Photography Contest.
Briner, an actor, director, playwright, poet —and photographer— is no stranger to the art scene in Easton. As actor, director and producer, he is the man behind “Readers Theater,” a popular plays event staged annually at the Easton Library. He’s also a valued member of the board for Easton Arts Council.
Briner grew up in the Midwest but has chosen Easton as home for the past 45 years. His love of photography began as a teen, when he saved up to buy his first camera, a Yashica SLR.
“I’ve entered many photo contests, but this is the first time I’ve won first prize,” Briner said.
It was April 24, 2024, the day of the solar eclipse. The artist stood with his camera and gazed through the cloud cover, where beyond the bare tree branches the sun revealed itself in a glowing crescent. Stars and earthly bodies aligned, Briner shot the winning photograph. You can see “Eclipse # 9,” along with past first-prize winning photographs taken in Easton, next time you visit Town Hall.
To find out how to enter the upcoming 2025 Easton Photography Contest, go to our website at eastonartscouncil.org. Details and entry forms are available online.
