Discover Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Through the Lens

At Anza-Borrego Foundation, we believe that nature has the power to inspire, and there’s no better way to share that inspiration than through photography. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a seasoned professional with a camera, our Annual Photo Contest invites you to capture the beauty of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

The Art of Capturing the Desert

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a place of extremes, where the rugged beauty of arid landscapes contrasts with vibrant bursts of life during the wildflower bloom. The Park is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, dramatic mountain ranges, sweeping desert plains, and stunning night skies. Every season brings a unique experience, from the spring wildflower blooms to the golden hues of fall and the dramatic desert skies that winter reveals.

Photography offers a powerful way to appreciate and share this desert beauty. Through the photo contest, photographers share the desert through their lenses, finding details others may overlook, and capturing the essence of a place that, while seemingly barren at first glance, is full of life, color, and wonder.

Why Enter?

This contest is a celebration of the connection between people and the desert. Every year, we are awed by the creativity, talent, and unique perspectives that participants bring to their work. By entering, you’ll not only have a chance to showcase your photography skills but also inspire preservation of this incredible desert environment. The contest highlights the importance of conservation and helps spread awareness about the fragile ecosystems that need our protection.

Winning photographs will be featured on ABF’s website, social media, and publications, giving your work the opportunity to inspire others. Winners will also receive special prizes, including an ABF membership and recognition in our public outreach.

How to Participate

Entering is easy! The contest is open to photographers of all ages and skill levels, and there are multiple categories to explore:

Landscapes: Capture the sweeping vistas, sunrises, sunsets, and awe-inspiring geological formations.

Wildlife: From the majestic bighorn sheep to the smallest desert critters, wildlife photography showcases the diversity of life in the desert.

Plants: The desert is home to unique and resilient plant species. Whether it’s a cactus in bloom or a field of wildflowers, these photos highlight the desert’s botanical wonders.

People in the Park: Document the human connection with the desert, whether through hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the scenery.

Nightscapes: Capture the night sky to share the importance of the absence of light pollution.

Black & White: Enter your best black and white photo!

Cell Phone: We offer a separate cell phone category so that anyone can enter (no fancy camera needed).

To enter, simply submit your photos via our online entry form. Be sure to review the rules and guidelines to ensure your work is eligible. The contest runs from November 1, 2024 to December 10, 2024 so you have plenty of time to submit!

Leave No Trace: Photograph Responsibly

While exploring the Park in search of that perfect photo, it’s essential to practice responsible photography. ABF is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Park, and we encourage all photographers to follow the Leave No Trace principles to ensure that we protect the environment for future generations. Stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect the Park’s delicate ecosystems.

Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting out, ABF’s Annual Photo Contest offers a unique opportunity to connect with the desert, share your artistic vision, and support conservation efforts. We can’t wait to see the stunning images you capture and share with the world.

Start planning your adventure and get ready to capture the magic of the desert!

For more information and to submit your photos, visit our Photo Contest page.