GO Laurel Highlands seeks images for annual photo contest

Visitors to the Laurel Highlands expressed an increased interest in exploring the region’s outdoors this past year, amid the social distancing that was a priority during the height of the covid-19 pandemic.

Wherever their interests have led them, visitors and residents alike who captured images of their surroundings will have a chance to share the images by entering the 17th annual Laurel Highlands Photo Contest.

Photos taken anywhere within the 3,000 square miles covered by Westmoreland, Fayette and Somerset counties may be entered until July 31 in the contest sponsored by GO Laurel Highlands, also known as the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau.

The contest attracted anywhere from 800 to 1,200 submissions in past years, according to Anna Weltz, director of public relations and community relations for the Ligonier-based organization.

“We didn’t get a ton of images last year,” Weltz said, but this year’s contest could see an increase in responses. “A lot of folks tried some new adventures.”

Because of restrictions that canceled many gatherings last year, there is no specific category for special events in this year’s contest. Photos may be entered in one of three broad categories: People (Portraits and Experiences), Plants and Animals (Nature) or Places (Attractions and Landscapes).

Though many images were entered over the years from such popular and scenic destinations as Ohiopyle State Park, Weltz noted, “Every picture and every angle is different. We live in such a charismatic region.”

There is no limitation on the date when photos were taken or the number of submissions per photographer, but the images must be in color and may not be of private property.

A panel of judges will select the top images, which will be published in the organization’s Destination Guide and on its website, golaurelhighlands.com. They also may be included in promotional campaigns and displayed in special exhibits.

Some entries from past contests are featured in a new tourism-related display in the terminal at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Unity.

First place in each of the contest categories will receive $500; second place, $200; and third place, $100.

Participants should submit high-quality digital image files named to include the photographer’s identity and the site and town where the photo was taken.

Details are available at golaurelhighlands.com/about-us/photo-contest or by calling 724-238-5661.