The photographer Peter Granser, who was born in 1971, has been awarded the Leica Oskar Barnack Award 2004 for his photo series “Coney Island”.

The beach and amusement center, Coney Island, which was built in the 19th century,was to present an America of the future, a technical wonderland directly on the Atlantic Ocean. The amusement parks such as “Dreamland” and “Luna Park” established a new form of leisure for the masses. But what was once a sophisticated stretch to stroll along and amuse oneself, has, over recent decades, turned into a rather shabby place covered in weeds and rust.
http://www.leica-camera.com/kultur/events/...r1/index_e.html

The jury of the Leica Oskar Barnack Award has also given two honorary mentions. Martin Kollar, member of Agence Vu, has been distinguished for his photographic journey through East European countries. With his series “Nothing Special” he has captured many different, sometimes humorous incidents. On their own they are inclined to appear anecdotal, but viewed as a whole they relay a witty portrait of the countries which stand between their own traditions and the influence from the West. A further honorary mention goes to the project “Hotel Marinum” of Magnum photographer, Alex Majoli. His intense B&W pictures describe the special traits of international ports, where there is a feeling of longing and decay.

Constantine Manos is the 2003 winner of the Leica Medal of Excellence. Manos' ten winning images represent recent color work from his ongoing project titled American Color. In this project Constantine Manos has created a set of fascinating images which engage both the eye and mind and invite repeated viewings and contemplation. Photographing mostly in exotic locations and at public events in the United States, such as Venice Beach, Atlantic City, Bike Week at Daytona Beach, and Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Manos presents a kaleidoscopic view of American culture.