Governor's Photo Contest winners named Posted on 9/30/2009
Scenery winner: Old Main; Duane Strand
For more information contact: Sara Otte Coleman, Director, Tourism Division North Dakota Department of Commerce 701-328-2525 2009
Thirteen winning photos were recently announced in the 2009 North Dakota Governor's Photo Contest. Winning photographers will receive a $200 cash prize for each winning photo and have their work featured in North Dakota Tourism's marketing materials, along with even greater exposure through contest partner AAA North Dakota. The winners were chosen from more than 700 photo entries in the contest, which kicked off in May.
"Our talented amateur photographers are helping visitors and residents experience North Dakota by visually capturing the state's rich and diverse tourism offerings," said Gov. John Hoeven. "It's wonderful to see our residents appreciate the beauty of our state, while showcasing the unique aspects that make North Dakota a great place to live, work and play."
Tourism Director Sara Otte Coleman said the photos were judged on originality, subject matter, visual appeal, and ability to portray North Dakota as a legendary travel destination in the categories of events, attractions, people, scenery, wildlife, outdoor adventure, and culture and heritage.
"This year there was a new category added, culture and heritage, which shows visitors and residents a variety of traditional experiences across the state," said Otte Coleman.
Thanks to a sponsorship from AAA, North America's largest leisure travel organization and one of the world's largest travel publishers, this year's photo contest had some exciting changes. In addition to the increased prize money, originally $100 and now doubled to $200:
Winning photographs will be eligible for display in AAA North Dakota branch offices and may be printed in AAA regional publications.
A new "best of show" photo was selected from the winning photographs, and the photographer will receive an additional $300 cash prize and a free, one-year AAA membership.
"It's an honor to reward the hard work and considerable talent of some of North Dakota's amateur photographers," said Gene LaDoucer, AAA North Dakota spokesman. "It's obvious they have an eye and a passion for what makes this state such a wonderful travel destination."
The contest is held annually and is open to any North Dakota amateur photographer. Next year's contest will begin in May 2010. Winning photos can be seen at the North Dakota Tourism Web site at NDtourism.com.
2009 Contest Winners (by category):
Best of Show: Photographer: Duane Strand, Wahpeton Winning photograph: "Fargo's Finest" (Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitors Center)
