Could a Hopkinsville scene shine in a national photo contest?

Scenic America, a nonprofit that works to enhance the visual character of the nation’s communities and countryside, is inviting photographers of all skill levels to enter a nationwide contest.

The American the Beautiful Photo Contest showcases “the best of American scenic beauty from across the country,” organizers said in a press release from Scenic America.

Each photographer may submit up to five photos between July 1 and Aug. 5.

The contest has nine categories, several of which look ideally suited to images shot in Hopkinsville and surrounding communities. They are:

• Mountains
• Parks and Open Spaces
• Beaches
• Rivers and Lakes
• Trees and Forests
• Highways, Roads and Byways
• Animals
• Cities and Towns
• People

The entries will be judged on these criteria:

• Representation of scenic beauty
• Originality
• Technical excellence
• Composition
• Overall impact
• Minimal altering and manipulation
• Artistic merit

Contest rules and additional information about how to enter are available online.