2015: Daniel Berehulak – Freelancer for The New York Times

Western Africa has dealt with many problems in recent history. But Ebola was a problem with a major negative impact that shook the world. Daniel was brave enough to capture the Ebola outbreak for the pivotal four months. He spent a critical time in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea to deliver an amazing story. Of course, the danger was at the highest level. He had to take many breaks and take precautions to avoid contracting the disease. This award is proof that Berehulak was able to show the true colors of Liberia and the Ebola outbreak. It takes persistence, bravery, and excellent storytelling to capture the key details. It affected all mankind and Daniel knew how important it is

2014: Josh Haner – Die New York Times

Haner’s performance in game photography for 2014 was incredible. He made a high-quality photo essay on Boston Marathon bombing victim Jeff Bauman. Jeff’s life has changed since that day since he lost both his legs. His life took a drastic turn and Bauman had to do everything in his power to stay strong and keep going. Josh is a photographer at The New York Times and his work and experience produced the best result in this story. In the essay, Josh showed Jeff’s recovery after the Boston terrorist attack. Jeff spoke about his next steps in life and how he coped with the issue of losing his legs. It’s a story everyone should know, especially the people of Boston.

2013: Javier Manzano – Freelance Photographer

For a freelance photographer, it’s difficult to compete for a Pulitzer Prize. There are few freelancers who have won this category, and Javier is one of them. He was shocked when he found out about it. He works as a freelancer for Agence France-Presse and the last freelancer to win a Pulitzer Prize for photography was in 1996. Manzano’s photography is amazing. He was able to snap a photo of two soldiers in Aleppo guarding their position behind a shed with a sniper. Also the light streaming through the holes in the shed roof (holes due to the bullets) made the photo even better. The place where Javier took the photo is the Karmel Jabl neighborhood in Aleppo. Manzano deserves to be honored with such an award.

2012: Craig F. Walker – Die Denver Post

The war in Iraq had reached a difficult point that many people cannot imagine. The Denver Post Photographer Craig did a great job capturing the life of a combat veteran. The photo essay offers an adaptation of the life of soldier Scott Ostrom. He was diagnosed with PTSD and life after the war was not easy at all. Craig’s 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Game Photography wasn’t his first. In 2010, he won an award in the same category for capturing Ian Fisher, who went from simple high school life to becoming a soldier in Iraq. The Denver Post is proud to have such a photographer on its team because he has clicked on many great photos throughout his career.

2011: Barbara Davidson – Los Angeles Times

Not every photographer is willing to spend two years in LA’s most dangerous communities. But Barbara did an excellent job, winning the Pulitzer Prize in 2011 for it. Barbara visited places like Compton and Watts to capture the odyssey of those cut off by street violence. She could hear stories of many innocent victims. But that wouldn’t have been possible if it didn’t fit into their lifestyle and become part of the community. The parents, pastors and gang members were not intimidated by their presence. She could talk and take pictures of anything that interested her.