Submissions to Conservation Foundation’s Summer Photo Contest close May 31

“Queen Butterfly on Thistle Flower” by Christopher Harrington. COURTESY PHOTOS

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast has announced the return of their virtual Summer Photo Contest. Entering its fifth 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. As in years past, the exhibition will be entirely virtual with website and Facebook displays.

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 Big Picture: This category is for landscapes and waterscapes showcasing 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.

¦ Old Florida Charm: Capturing the essence of our rich history, this category showcases the timeless allure and rustic beauty of natural Florida with an emphasis on cultural heritage, ranching and rural communities.

“Corn Snake Enjoying the Salty Air” by Diane Fairey.

¦ It’s a Wild Life: A mesmerizing array of wildlife can be found across the Sunshine State. From birds to bears, this category is for celebrating the beauty, grace and power of our native species.

There is also a Youth Perspective category specifically for photographers aged 15 and under. Youth Perspective submissions must still fall into one of the four categories above.

Up to three photographs may be submitted per person and must be received via email no later than midnight on May 31. Jurors will review all submissions and select 10 per category for display in online galleries on the Conservation Foundation website and Conservation Foundation Facebook page.

The 2024 jury includes award-winning photographer and digital artist Steve White; noted photographer Mary Lundeberg; conservation biologist, educator and wildlife photographer Alberto Lopez Torres; noted photographer Kerri Deatherage; and three-time Conservation Foundation Summer Photo Contest People’s Choice Winner, Diane Fairey.

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. For details, entry rules, and submission forms see conservationfoundation.com/summerphoto.

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast protects land and water in Southwest Florida for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations and government, it works to ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. The foundation’s vital work strengthens Southwest Florida’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at conservationfoundation.com . ¦

The post Submissions to Conservation Foundation’s Summer Photo Contest close May 31 first appeared on Charlotte County Florida Weekly .