The opening of the Naturescapes 2016 Photography Contest and Exhibition is almost here!

We will start accepting entries on May 2nd. The contest is now in its 12th year and is co-sponsored by the Hill Country Photography Club and the Hays County Master Naturalists.

Goals of the contest and exhibit include increasing public awareness of the importance of protecting our natural world and giving photographers at all levels of experience a chance to capture, share, and receive recognition for beautiful and inspiring images. Suggested subjects include natural scenery, wildlife, plants, and people and pets in the natural environment.

The contest is open to resident and visiting photographers of all ages. A $100 prize will be awarded for Best in Show, $75 for the best Youth Category photo, and $75 for the best Natural Waterscape photo. Up to four $50 Awards of Excellence will be presented for the next most outstanding photographs. Additional Awards of Merit will be presented at the discretion of the contest juror.

We’re very pleased to have the team of John and Kendra Abbott as our jurors. John and Kendra are professional nature photographers, educators and outdoor enthusiasts based in Austin, Texas.

Please visit the contest’s web page for complete information.

Here is the front of the the contest’s promotional postcard featuring Tom Hausler’s beautiful “Ladder-backed Woodpecker“.

Grab your cameras, go outside, and take some photographs! Please help us spread the word about the contest and we hope to see your entries soon!