Lake County Gazette

Granite City High School junior Brayden Cook has been recognized by St. Louis Public Radio with Best in Show and Best Sports Feature as part of the 2025 Teen Photojournalist Prize, as announced by STLPR.

Cook's Best in Show entry, titled "Ashes and Rainbows," features Granite City firefighter Coady Sutton controlling a hose above an abandoned auto body shop on East 23rd Street on May 27, 2024.

His Best Sports Feature entry, "Red in the Rain," captures GCHS boys soccer center back Joey Morales picking up cones after a game against Fort Zumwalt West was canceled due to lightning threats on Sept. 23, 2024.

"Brayden is a rising star--his photography work is exceptional, and it's great to see him get exposure in our area," said GCSD9 Manager of District Communications and Transportation Chris Mitchell. "It's exciting to have the opportunity to work alongside someone who shares the same passion, and we thank him for all of his work highlighting the Granite City School District and the City of Granite City. "

Cook will receive an $800 Visa gift card for Best in Show and a $200 Visa gift card for his first-place category. He also receives a master class with STLPR visuals editor Brian Munoz, publication on stlpr.org and STLPR social media platforms, display on Public Media Commons big screen, an exhibition at UMSL at Grand Center, and a framed print of his winning photograph.

Cook serves as the social media manager for GCHS boys and girls soccer teams and boys volleyball team. He is also the owner of BC Photography, a business specializing in aerial and ground photography services.

The STLPR Teen Photojournalist Prize aims to provide professional recognition, publicity, encouragement, hands-on training, and resources to area high school students who demonstrate talent in documenting their world through photography.

To view Cook's winning photos: https://www.stlpr.org/events/photojournalist-prize.