2015 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest Kick-Off

The 2015 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest is now open! This year the contest features five categories, including a new one: Fun on Trail. Whether you're a pro photographer or just picking up a camera for the first time, we'd love to see the adventures you've been on.

From stunning vistas to friends hiking on the trail, we're sure to have a category to catch your eye this year. Below you'll find brief descriptions for each category to give you inspiration for the contest. Once you're ready to enter your photos, head over to our entry form and show us what you have!

Trailscapes - incredible landscapes and the trails that take you through them

This category seeks landscape photos with a visible trail in them. We encourage photographers to make the trail itself a large piece of your composition, though the photo may be taken from a trail instead showing the surrounding beauty. Showcase the natural wonders found in Washington from the trails we love to hike.

Photo by Randall Hodges

Hikers in Action - capture the experience with hikers on trails

The Hikers in Action category is looking for shots of hikers on all kinds of trails. The only requirement for this category is that the photo features at least one person on a trail, the rest is up to you and your creativity! Try to capture hikers in motion or navigating interesting sections of trail. If you can show the energy of the hikers, it will tell a greater story.

Flora and Fauna - woods, wildflowers and all things four-legged and furry

The Flora and Fauna category only requests that you feature plants or wildlife in your photo. This includes insects and other creatures you might encounter on a hike. Remember to practice LNT when trying to photograph plants and wildlife.

Photo by Svitlana Imnadze

Camp Life - fun picnicking, camping and sitting around the campfire

This category is all about kicking back and enjoying camp. Show us how you make a meal or enjoy the company of your fellow hikers around the campfire. The only requirement of this category is that photos be taken in and around camp, whether that be in a designated campground or in the backcountry. Remember, photos must show LNT compliant camps to be eligible for a prize.

Photo by Mike Warren

Fun on Trail - celebrate hiking by showing us what fun on trail means to you

Our new category this year, Fun on Trail seeks photos that show hikers having a good time on trails. Show off your favorite selfie at the top of the mountain, or your friends frolicking on the trail. This is an open category for you to show us how much fun you have while you’re outside. Anything goes, so long as it’s safe, fun and on trail!

The contest runs until October 19, 2015, so be sure all your shots are submitted by that time. If you need some extra motivation, take a look at the prizes we're offering this year, or head over to our FAQ if you have any questions. Good luck!