Capture the Real Florida: Turn Your State Park Photos into Prizes

Love snapping pictures while exploring Florida's breathtaking state parks? Your photos could turn into cash and prizes! The Florida State Parks system has launched its 2024 "Capture the Real Florida" photo contest, and all you need is your camera or smartphone to enter for a chance to win big!

Whether you're an amateur, professional, or just enjoy photography for fun, Florida’s 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites offer incredible landscapes, wildlife, and unique experiences for you to capture. And now, you can transform those amazing shots into exciting prizes!

“Florida’s state parks are full of beauty and wonder, and we are so excited to see them through your lens,” said Chuck Hatcher, Director of Florida State Parks. “Whether you’re a professional or just doing it for fun, we encourage everyone to get out there and experience the many unique natural and cultural resources at Florida State Parks. We can’t wait to see what you capture!” 

How to Enter: Submit your best photos taken at any Florida state park between November 1 and December 31, 2024. You can enter up to eight photos, spread across the following categories:

• Scenic Landscapes
• Wildlife Wonders
• State Park Adventures
• Small Wonders
• Waterscapes
• Parks Overnight
• Plants/Flowers
• Birds

Participants can compete in one of three divisions: professional/hobbyist, student, or mobile phone. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges, and grand-prize winners in each division will be chosen by a special blue-ribbon panel.

Prizes Include:

• B&H Photo gift card
• Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass
• A promotional package featuring a branded stand-up paddleboard

This year, there's also a People’s Choice Award, where the public can vote for their favorite photos in each division, with winners receiving additional promotional prizes.

Winning photos might also be featured in Florida State Parks calendars, websites, publications, and even in Welcome Centers, giving your photography widespread recognition.

Don't miss your chance to turn your passion for Florida’s great outdoors into money and prizes. For full contest details and to submit your photos, visit the Florida State Parks photo contest website.
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Get out there, snap your best shot, and let Florida’s natural beauty work for you!