North Dakota’s 2024 Governor’s Photo Contest Open For Submissions

In a vibrant celebration of the state's stunning landscapes and dynamic activities, the North Dakota Governor's Photo Contest for Travel and Tourism is now open for submissions.

This annual event, a partnership between the Office of Governor Doug Burgum, AAA, North Dakota Tourism, and the North Dakota Council on the Arts, highlights the talents of North Dakotan photographers while showcasing the state as a top travel destination.

This year's theme, "Celebrating the Seasons of North Dakota," invites photographers to capture the unique beauty and activities available throughout the year.

From the snow-covered landscapes of winter to the vibrant colors of fall, the contest aims to demonstrate that North Dakota is a destination worth visiting in every season.

Eligibility and Contest Rules

The contest is open to all resident photographers of North Dakota. Participants under 18 must have parental or guardian permission.

However, the Best in Show winner from last year and anyone who has won a category in the past two consecutive contests are ineligible to participate this year.

Photographers can submit up to 15 entries, with a maximum of three category tags per entry. Only color photographs taken within North Dakota, preferably within the last three years, will be considered.

Entrants must be the original photographers and copyright holders of their submitted photos, and any drone imagery must comply with FAA regulations. Additionally, photographers must obtain consent from any individuals visible in their photos and provide proof of consent if requested.

By entering, participants agree to grant the North Dakota Department of Commerce, its affiliates, and AAA royalty-free rights to use, display, and distribute the images, with credit given to the photographer where possible.

Contest Categories

Photographers can submit their work under various categories, each reflecting a different season and the activities associated with it:

• Winter Scenery: Images showcasing beautiful snow-covered spaces, frozen lakes, and picturesque downtowns.
• Winter Activities: Photos capturing winter sports and activities like snowmobiling, skiing, ice fishing, and indoor attractions.
• Fall Scenery: Pictures highlighting fall foliage, scenic drives, and vibrant cityscapes.
• Fall Activities: Images of hunting, hiking, bonfires, and other fall activities.
• Spring Scenery: Photos of budding trees, spring flowers, and waterfowl nesting areas.
• Spring Activities: Pictures of birding, fishing, festivals, and museum visits.
• Summer Scenery: Images of green spaces, lakes, blooming flowers, and summer landscapes.
• Summer Activities: Photos capturing outdoor concerts, fairs, festivals, camping, and family road trips.

Submission Deadline

The contest is open for submissions until January 31, 2025. Photographers are encouraged to submit their best work to help highlight North Dakota’s year-round beauty and the myriad activities it offers.

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For more information and to enter the contest, visit the official North Dakota Tourism website. Don't miss this opportunity to share your vision of North Dakota and contribute to showcasing the state's appeal as a travel destination.