well i'm pretty sure that by an actual physics definition, potential and kinetic energy are two different things. kinetic energy involves something already being in motion, which is why the formula is (1/2)mv^2, whereas the formula for potential energy is mgh.
so yes, you are right that the snow that is traveling upward has potential energy. and i guess technically the toaster doesn't really have much true potential energy unless you take into account that it is on a table. but i was under the impression that the topic was more to show something that is ready to release a great deal of energy. a shot of somebody shredding pow and getting a face shot doesn't make me think potential energy in any way. it makes me think of how awesome everything happening in that moment is and all the kinetic energy that has been captured in that shot. when the snow blows up in somebody's face, the energy has already been released.
this is a pretty subjective topic regarding what can be considered 'potential energy,' but i'm just saying that in a [great] photo that has so perfectly captured the action and [kinetic] energy of skiing, i'm not sure the snow having the potential to freeze to his face is enough to classify it as potential energy.
i think bringing up the fact that a pic is off topic is extremely constructive. it will help everybody understand what does and does not fall under the topic so as to get a more fair vote, and could help people in future photography when they think hm, am i sure this is on topic?
just my $.02.
