Vote Now! Help Choose the Best Local Photo of the Month!

Cloud Lake, Michigan, USA - As we delve into the heart of Michigan’s vibrant photography scene, a variety of competitions are now calling attention to the talents of local photographers. Recently, News Channel 3 launched its Photo of the Month contest, inviting viewers to submit their best shots from May. This month’s entries celebrate the state’s diverse charm, ranging from breathtaking landscapes to heartwarming moments with pets.

Among the eight compelling photos in the competition are scenes such as preschoolers at the YMCA enjoying a moment with Kalamazoo firemen, captured by Kimblyn Ross, and a mesmerizing sunset by Kyla & Dakota K. Voting will close on Friday at 2 p.m., with results expected by the following Monday, encouraging everyone to participate in recognizing the skill displayed by these talented photographers. Excitingly, viewers can also submit their own photos for next month’s contest, showcasing the community’s creativity and appreciation for visual storytelling.

Scenic Michigan: A New Frontier for Photographers

In addition to local competitions, Scenic Michigan is gearing up for its 2024 Photo Contest, having seen impressive engagement in its previous iterations, particularly the Scenic Night Sky category which garnered over 250,000 views on Facebook. The contest invites submissions that display Michigan’s natural beauty and unique landscapes, allowing for diverse categories such as Scenic Roadways, Scenic Landscapes, and even Un-Scenic Blight, highlighting both the good and the less appealing aspects of our surroundings.

For avid photographers interested in participating, submissions must be received by December 31, 2024. Participants can enter up to ten photos, ensuring each entry captures the essence of the state. Beyond showcasing talent, this contest aims to foster a strong connection between the community and Michigan’s natural heritage, promoting awareness and appreciation of our environment.

Celebrating Nature Through the MNA Annual Contest

The Michigan Nature Association (MNA) has also been a pioneer in celebrating local photography through its Annual Photo Contest, which marks its 15th anniversary in 2025. Since 2011, this contest has encouraged professional and hobbyist photographers to share their visions of Michigan’s natural wonders. Each year, hundreds of images are submitted, portraying everything from stunning landscapes to fascinating flora and fauna.

The MNA’s annual contest not only highlights artistic expression but also underscores the importance of safeguarding Michigan’s natural treasures. Previous winners have included remarkable works like „Bee Leaving Beebalm“ by William Rowan and „East Branch of the Fox River“ by Ken Jacobsen, emphasizing the diverse impressions captured over the years. With an invitation extended to all photographers for the 2025 contest, the MNA continues to champion the environmental consciousness among Michiganders.

With different platforms for showcasing photography, Michigan is bustling with artistic opportunities that reflect the state’s rich culture and natural beauty. Whether through the cozy, community-driven contests like those from News Channel 3 or the overarching contests organized by Scenic Michigan and MNA, photographers in the Great Lakes state certainly have their work cut out. Their keen eyes capture not just images, but stories waiting to be told, reminding us all that there’s something to be said for observing the world through a lens.