OSPREY, FL (May 5, 2026) Big Waters Land Trust is delighted to announce the return of their virtual Summer Photo Contest. Photography celebrating Florida’s natural landscapes takes center stage in this juried exhibition sponsored by Sarasota Scene Magazine. Entering its seventh 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.
Submissions are accepted 5/1-5/31 and must have been taken in Florida within the past year and fall into one of the following four categories:
- In Love with the Land: This category is for landscapes showcasing nature in all her glory.
- The Art of Nature: This category is a celebration of abstract expressions in nature and science. Images may include close-ups, angles, patterns, motion, or other unique perspectives of the natural world.
- Beautiful Waters: This category highlights the beauty of Florida’s waters and is dedicated to the unique rivers, lakes, and coastlines that define the Sunshine State.
- 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 ten per category for display in online galleries on the Big Waters Land Trust website and Facebook page. The virtual competition will award prizes to category winners as selected by the jury, as well as People’s Choice awards as determined by popular vote on Facebook. Jury-selected category winners will be featured in the July/August issue of Scene Magazine. This year’s esteemed jurors include photographer and writer Mary Lundeberg, renowned photographers Harry Sayer and Barbara Banks, and Darcy Kelly-Laviolette, Executive Creative Director for Sarasota Scene Magazine.
For additional details, entry rules, and submission forms, visit bigwaterslandtrust.org/spc26.
About Big Waters Land Trust
Big Waters protects Florida’s land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they work 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. Their vital work strengthens Florida’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.
