16th Annual Valdosta People's Choice Photo Contest Celebrates Community Spirit

The City of Valdosta is thrilled to announce the commencement of the 16th Annual Valdosta People's Choice Photo Contest in collaboration with the esteemed Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts. As a longstanding tradition spanning a decade, this event continues to inspire residents to encapsulate the essence of life in Valdosta through the lens of their cameras.

The contest, open to photography enthusiasts of all levels, encourages participants to capture the vibrant essence of Valdosta and its surrounding areas in Lowndes County. With categories ranging from the bustling City Life to the serene charm of Country Living, there's a space for every aspect of Valdosta's rich tapestry.

"We're excited to witness another year of creativity and community engagement through the Valdosta People's Choice Photo Contest," expressed Sharah’ Denton, Community Relations and Marketing Manager for the City of Valdosta. "This event not only showcases the beauty of our city but also fosters a sense of pride and connection among our residents."

The contest categories for this year include:

  1. City Life: Highlighting the dynamic urban landscape of Valdosta and its neighboring cities in Lowndes County (Valdosta, Lake Park, Remerton, and Hahira).
  2. Country Living: Celebrating the tranquility and charm of rural life within Lowndes County.
  3. People's Choice Adult: Welcoming all captivating photographs that capture the essence of the Valdosta community.
  4. People's Choice Youth: Empowering young talents (ages 16 and under) to showcase their unique perspectives through photography.

Entries will be accepted until Friday, May 17, 2024. Participants are encouraged to submit their photographs online at http://tinyurl.com/VLDPhotos2024, accompanied by a completed entry form. Each entrant may submit up to two photos, ensuring a diverse array of perspectives.

The excitement doesn't end with the submission deadline. A 16th Anniversary Opening Reception will be held at the Turner Center for the Arts on June 10, 2024, from 5-7 p.m., marking the commencement of people's choice voting. The public can view and vote for their favorite entries at the Turner Center's Tillman Gallery until July 18, 2024.

The culmination of the event will be the 16th Anniversary Awards Reception on Monday, July 22, 2024, from 5-7 p.m., where the overall winners will be announced. Prizes include a $200 cash award for first place winners in each category, along with honorable mentions.

Furthermore, selected photographs will embark on a journey as part of a traveling display across various community locations from August to December 2024, allowing residents to continue enjoying the visual narratives of their beloved city.

To ensure fairness and adherence to contest guidelines, participants are reminded to review the official contest rules, including photo formats, submission guidelines, and copyright requirements. Detailed information can be found on the contest website or by contacting the City of Valdosta Public Information Office or the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

City of Valdosta Public Information Office: 229-259-3548
Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts: 229-247-2787