Midnight May 31 the deadline for entries via email
The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, based in Osprey, has announced the return of its virtual Summer Photo Contest.
“Entering its fourth year, this annual event invites photographers of all ages and experience levels to share their original work showcasing the natural beauty of the Sunshine State,” a news release explains. As in years past, the exhibition will be entirely virtual with website and Facebook displays, the release adds.
“Works submitted for this online juried exhibition must have been taken in Florida within the past year and fall into one of the following four categories,” the release points out:
- “The Big Picture: It’s a big beautiful world we’re living in! Landscapes or waterscapes, this categoryis for those majestic views and sweeping vistas that showcase Mother Nature in all her glory.
- “The Art of Nature: A celebration of abstract expressions in nature and science, this category is for close-ups, angles, patterns, motion, or other unique perspectives of the natural world.
- “Fabulously Florida: What makes FloridaFloridato you? Whether it’s plants, animals, or people — this category highlights the Sunshine State and those who call this special place home.
- “Winged Life: Birds, butterflies, and bees, oh my! This category is dedicated to the winged creatures and feathered friends we all love to photograph — in flight, perched, or in action!”
Additionally, a Youth Perspective category has been created specifically for photographers age 15 and younger. “Youth Perspective submissions must still fall into one of the four categories above, “the release notes.
Up to three photographs may be submitted per person, the release says. The Foundation must receive them via email no later than midnight on May 31, the release emphasizes.
Jurors will review all submissions and select 10 per category for display in online galleries on the Conservation Foundation website and on Conservation Foundation Facebook page, the release says.
The 2023 jury comprises noted photographer Kerri Gagne Deatherage; fine artist Mary Louise O’Connell; and award-winning commercial photographer Robert Nishihira.
“The virtual competition will award prizes to category winners as selected by the jury,” as well as People’s Choice winners determined by popular vote on Facebook, the release notes. For details, entry rules, and submission forms, visit conservationfoundation.com/summerphoto.