Florida State Parks invites photographers to “Capture the Real Florida” from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024, with prizes for best photos in various categories.

An invitation has been extended to photography enthusiasts across the state to participate in a unique contest that highlights the picturesque landscapes of Florida’s 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites. The event, known as “Capture the Real Florida,” encourages participants to showcase the state’s natural beauty through their lens.

About “Capture the Real Florida” 

According to Chuck Hatcher, Director of Florida State Parks, “Florida’s state parks are full of beauty and wonder, and we are so excited to see them through your lens.” He also emphasized the contest’s inclusivity, encouraging both professionals and hobbyists to explore and enjoy the parks’ natural and cultural resources.

The competition is open to all visitors to Florida state parks. The submission window runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024. Photography enthusiasts can submit their entries via the photo contest website.

Participants are allowed to submit one photograph per category, with the opportunity to enter eight categories. These categories include:

• Scenic Landscapes
• Wildlife Wonders
• State Park Adventures
• Small Wonders
• Waterscapes
• Parks Overnight
• Plants/Flowers
• Birds

The contest is divided into three sections: professional/hobbyist, student, and mobile phone. A panel from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection will select first, second, and third-place winners for each division. Additionally, a blue-ribbon panel will choose a grand prize winner from each division, who will receive a B&H Photo gift card, a Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass, and a promotional package that includes a Florida State Parks branded stand-up paddleboard.

For the first time, the contest will feature a People’s Choice Award, allowing the public to vote for their favorite photos in each division. Winners of the People’s Choice Award will also receive a Florida State Parks promotional package.

Winning photographs may be featured in various formats, such as calendars, websites, displays, and publications, and showcased at Florida Welcome Centers.