The Chesapeake Bay Foundation Wednesday announced its ninth annual watershed photo contest. Photo submissions are being accepted now through April 12.

Photographers of all skill levels, ages 13 and up, are encouraged to participate to win the top cash prize and have their photo featured in CBF’s award-winning publications.

The contest promotes awareness of conservation issues relating to the Chesapeake Bay and local rivers and streams. This year concepts and topics for photographers to consider include: beauty, recreation, history and legacy, and agriculture. Photos can illustrate a wide variety of topics, but all must include water in the photo.

“We constantly are impressed with the caliber of the photos submitted. It’s wonderful to see how connected and aware people are of our great rivers, streams, and the Bay,” said Jennifer Wallace, CBF Managing Editor and contest organizer.

All winners will receive a cash award ranging from the top prize of $500.00 to $100.00. The first prize winner also receives a premium spot in the CBF 2014 calendar. All winners will also receive a one-year membership to CBF and will have their photos displayed on CBF’s website, in a CBF e-newsletter, in CBF’s 2014 calendar, and in CBF’s award-winning magazine, Save the Bay.

Judging will be conducted by a panel of CBF employees on the basis of subject matter, composition, focus, lighting, uniqueness, and impact. The public will also be able to vote online for their favorite photo in the Viewers’ Choice Gallery.

Last year the judges had their work cut out for them with more than 500 entries. Participation in the Viewers’ Choice Award was outstanding, too, with more than 6,000 votes cast.

Contest rules and details are available online.

3/18/2013