Snowy night at Notre Dame shows off the season

Just three weeks before Christmas, the first appreciable snowfall of the season was transforming the University of Notre Dame campus.

"My mom, sister and I were scurrying across campus to attend the Advent Lessons and Carols at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart," said Chris Babb of Wheaton. "It was snowing hard."

The basilica is located next to the Main Building, which is topped with the iconic golden dome, that evening illuminated by both lights and reflective snow crystals.

As they approached, Babb pointed the lens of her Olympus Stylus Tough 1030 SW at the impressive sight.

"I whipped it out of my pocket and kept moving," she said. She captured just a single frame, urged by her companions to hurry.

"They were like, 'Let's go, we're going to be late,'" she said.

The resulting shot is the winner of the Daily Herald's December Photo Finish contest.

"Nice composition and good exposure of a snow scene at night," said DuPage County Photo Director Bev Horne. "It really captures the mood of the scene."

Babb said she is glad she paused long enough to take the photo.

"When the spirit moves you, take the picture and you'll be surprised what you'll get," she said. "Talk about the Christmas spirit."

Babb, a longtime hobbyist photographer from Wheaton, is a former Delta Air Lines flight attendant who currently works part-time for the Wheaton Park District. As the winner of the December contest, she will receive a $50 gift certificate for PJ's Camera in Glen Ellyn.

"I bought my camera at PJ's nine years ago," she said.

The Olympus has proved to be versatile and durable, she said.

"This camera can withstand the elements better," she said. "I needed something that could be dropped or get wet. I always throw that camera in my bag."

Babb said she rarely edits her photographs.

"It's very basic with me. I do love nature. That would probably be my number one (subject), along with family gatherings," she said.

Creating a portrait of the University of Notre Dame holds special significance, she said.

"My dad had gone to Notre Dame. He graduated in 1950," she said. And two of her three sons have attended school there.

Babb said she decided to submit this photo because of how it evokes the essence of the Christmas season.

"I liked just the lights in the picture. It looked almost spiritual," she said. "I am so excited about winning the photo contest. I never expected any of this when I submitted my photo. I'm very honored."