ENTRY PERIOD
Photo submissions will be accepted between February 7, 2024 and May 1, 2024.
ENTRY GUIDELINES
The mission of the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) is to foster the science and art of natural resource conservation. For the 2024 photo contest, we invite submissions that portray the beauty and conservation of the world’s natural resources.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
We want to see photos that display soil and water conservation and people in action, showcase the beauty of the world’s natural resources, and/or inspire conservation professionals working to ensure the future of our natural resources on both private and public lands. Additionally, providing a descriptive caption for your photo, including how it portrays conservation, will help bring the photo to life for our judges.
Submit high quality (300 dpi or greater), electronic format jpeg or tiff files to emma.harper@swcs.org. You may enter up to three photographs. No printed or mailed photos will be accepted.
Entry emails should include:
- Photographer name and email address
- Location where photo was taken (city, state/province, country)
- Short description (1-3 sentences)
JUDGING
A panel will judge photos based on (1) depiction of conservation, (2) visual composition, and (3) overall appeal.
The top 12 photos selected by the judging panel will be displayed at the 79th SWCS International Annual Conference, July 21-24, 2024, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and two awards will be given.
Rising Together - One winner selected by the judging panel that best depicts conservation ($50 Amazon eGift card)
People’s Choice - One winner selected by popular vote from entries on display at the 79th SWCS International Annual Conference ($50 Amazon eGift card and publication on the cover of the Journal of Soil and Water Conservation)
NOTIFICATION TO WINNERS
Recipients will be notified via email on May 27, 2024, if their photo is selected as the Rising Together winner or to be on display at the 79th SWCS International Annual Conference for a chance to receive the People’s Choice Award.
The People’s Choice Award winner will receive an email and be announced on social media after the event.
DISCLAIMERS
Previously published photographs may be accepted as long as you have retained the rights to allow us to use the photo. If people appear in the image, you are responsible for obtaining and providing necessary releases from the individuals in the photo, if requested.
All entries will become the property of SWCS, and SWCS reserves the nonexclusive right to use the photographs in publications or promotional materials to support our conservation efforts. SWCS reserves the nonexclusive right to sell the printed version of the photographs on display at the 79th SWCS International Annual Conference during the silent auction. You will retain photographer rights and use of the photos. Thank you for your help in protecting our natural resources.