Between news about the latest gadgets and tech, Gizmodo is known for hosting some really creative shooting challenges for amateur and professional photographers alike. As seasons and trends change, so do the challenges. Since New Year’s Eve is a celebration of light in places all around the world, it only seemed natural that editors would issue forth a challenge to photographers who happen to be celebrating. The challenge, fittingly enough, involved a technique that became pretty popular during 2011. Photographers were challenged to capture the evening using the long exposure method, for 15 seconds to 30 minutes.

The challenge left the window open for those who could find the spare time to capture some lights and those inspired enough to make it their night. As usual, anyone could enter so long as the picture is taken during the contest time limit. Each photographer, from different locations, submitted something that captured a little piece of their new year and a little of something from 2011. For those unaware, long exposure photography has an interesting way of capturing light. Fireworks, glow sticks, disco lights, and any point of light prone to movement are captured, depending on the camera exposure, as they move, sometimes creating a pathway of light. With long exposure,  photographers can even snatch pictures of words written in the air with glow sticks. This challenge’s winner, a photo by Lindsay Trudeau, captures a couple in the middle of their New Year’s kiss, bathed in the gold light of some Christmas tree ornaments. It’s at once surreal and captures the magic of the moment--a new year, romance, and a goodbye to a season of light.

As usual, the challenge brought forth plenty of creative and fun entries. With each is a description of how the photo was taken and a brief breakdown of the scene in the photo. Some capture bustling crowds and others focus on playing with light. Fireworks, party dance floor, street lights, and Christmas lights all make an appearance. To see more, check out Mark Wilson’s article. Wallpaper sized versions of each photo are available at their Flickr page!