Northwest Exposure Photo Contest FAQ

Have questions about the 2023 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest? See if we’ve answered them here! You can also check the official rules for more info.

When does the contest start and end?

The contest kicks off on August 17, 2023 and ends at 11:59pm on October 17, 2023. All photos need to be submitted by that time for consideration.

Can I submit a photo taken before 2023?

Yes, photos can be taken from 2023 or any year prior though we do encourage more recent entries.

Can I submit two photos to the same category?

For the main contest categories (Trailscapes, Hikers in Action, Flora & Fauna and Trail Family) only one photo may be submitted per category. Bonus categories (Instagram and East of the Cascades) allow unlimited entries.

Can I change a photo after it’s been submitted?

Yes, to replace a photo you’ve already submitted please re-submit your new version to the same category. The old photo will be replaced with the new version automatically in that category. For the Instagram category, the photo last uploaded and tagged will be your official entry.

How much editing is allowed?

There are no restrictions on editing your photos prior to submitting them, though more natural scenes are encouraged and judged more favorably. We want to showcase the beauty of the landscapes and trails in Washington as they appear in nature.

Can I submit photos of other people I meet on trails?

Yes, though if a picture contains the face of another hiker that can be recognized we do ask that you have their permission prior to submitting the photo.

Do I have to live in Washington to enter?

No, we don’t restrict entries based on the photographer’s location.

Do photos need to be taken in Washington?

Yes, all photos submitted to the contest need to have been taken in Washington state and from a trail or camp.

How are my photos used and do I retain rights to them?

By entering your photo in the Northwest Exposure Photo Contest you grant Washington Trails Association a non-exclusive right (this means you keep ownership of your photography) to publish any submitted photograph in its magazine, website, social media channels, or other materials to help support WTA's mission to promote and protect Washington’s trails and wildlands. They're used for a good cause, and we credit all photos!