CAZENOVIA — The Cazenovia Preservation Foundation (CPF) recently announced its first annual photography contest, “Capturing the Best of Cazenovia.”
CPF is a private, non-profit organization that works to protect the historical, agricultural and natural resources in and around Cazenovia for the benefit of the community and the enjoyment of future generations.
According to a June 16 press release from the organization, creative photographers of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to submit photos that reflect the unique sights and charm of Cazenovia and highlight CPF’s mission.
Participants are invited to enter up to five of their favorite photographs of CPF properties, nature, scenic vistas, historic architecture, farm landscapes, local events, aerial scenes, or drone images.
“Capture a dramatic image that generates excitement or one that instills peace,” the press release states.
All images should be taken within the Cazenovia Central School District and submitted before the Oct. 15 deadline.
According to CPF, Cazenovia College is planning to host at least one guided photography walk on CPF property in the early fall. The date(s) have yet to be determined.
“The CPF contest is a wonderful way for professionals and amateurs to share their creativity and passion for photography,” said Contest Chair Anne Saltman, who sits on the CPF Development & Community Engagement Committee. “We encourage local individuals, families, and visitors of all ages to explore our beautiful hiking trails and lovely environment. All are welcome to participate.”
A panel of local experts, consisting of current and former CPF board members/volunteers with professional backgrounds in photography, will judge the submissions.
The judges — Saltman, Brooke Dauenhauer, Sarah Cross, Jack Stevens, and Jennifer Wong — will select three semi-finalists in each of the following categories: professionals, adult amateurs, high school/college students, and youths (grade 8 or below). The public will then have an opportunity to vote on the finalists.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the finalist in each category. The professional and adult amateur winners will receive $250, the high school/college student will receive $100, and the youth will receive $50.
Winning photographs will be featured on the CPF website and social media pages. According to the organization, the images may also be displayed in other ways, such as on notecards, in the Cazenovia Public Library, and at the CPF fall fundraiser and next annual meeting.
Wong, who serves as CPF’s executive director, came up with the contest idea as a way to enhance the organization’s photography collection.
“Great photography is the best way to tell the story of what CPF does,” she said. “So, initially, the contest was conceived as a creative way to augment our collection of high-quality images. In running it as a contest, we can also engage the community around these great images and the people who made them. We’re hoping that this will inspire photographers, or would-be photographers, in our community to get out and explore. Maybe they walk a trail they’ve never visited or take a less-traveled road in search of inspiration.”
A $20 entry fee will be charged for professional and adult amateur entries. High school/college students and youth submissions will be accepted free of charge.
For additional information, visit the CPF website at cazpreservation.org.
