A COMPETITION has been launched to find the best shots of the South Downs National Park.
Stunning views of landscape, wildlife and cultural heritage are being sought as the National Park’s photography competition returns for 2022 with the theme of “Near and Far”.
Judges will be looking for breathtaking images that capture close-up views of the National Park, showcasing the beauty of nature in intricate detail.
Photographers are also invited to snap dramatic expansive views of the landscape that show off the size, scale and majesty of the South Downs landscape, whether it be hills, valleys, sky, rivers, woodlands, towns and villages, or historical buildings.
Award-winning photographers Rachael Talibart, Finn Hopson and Carlotta Luke will be on this year’s judging panel.
Rachael said: “I am looking forward to seeing lots of wonderful photos from this very special part of the world. I hope people will take the opportunity to show us not only the big vistas but also the little details that together make the National Park such a rewarding place to visit or live.”
The photos can include any of the majesty of the South Downs and the first place prize is £250, with a runner-up prize of £150, and third prize of £75.
Also for the first time, there is now a mobile phone photo category being introduced by the National Park Authority, meaning you could win the prize of £75 just through snapping photos of the South Downs wildlife with your smartphone.
There are also two youth competition categories available. The prize for 10 years and under will be a den-building kit, while the winner of the 11 to 17 category will win a family pass to a Go Ape Treetop Challenge or a Go Ape Forest Segway Experience.
Judge Carlotta said: "I’m very excited about this year’s theme of near and far.
"This theme gives so much scope for beautiful images that capture the intimate details and the wide open vistas of the National Park. I hope it will inspire people to look both closely and broadly at our inspiring South Downs.
"I can’t wait to see what the young budding photographers send us in the youth categories. I am also really pleased that we now have a mobile phone category. Now there are no excuses not to send in your photos!”
Entries close at midnight on Monday, October 31. Go to southdowns.gov.uk/care-for/photocompetition2022
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