Tips on making an award-winning Missouri State Park photo

Once again, Missouri State Parks joins us in sponsoring the Missouri Snapshots Photo Contest, open to amateur photographers. If you love exploring the outdoors and capturing great moments, this is your chance to show off your work.

Entries will only be considered if they were taken at a Missouri state park or historic site and submitted online at www.ruralmissouri.org/photo-contest by Nov. 15, 2025. Photos will be judged on sharpness, composition, lighting, creativity and how well they fit the category. First-place winners in each of the five categories will receive their choice of a Missouri State Parks getaway package valued at around $500. Second- and third-place winners earn $100 and $50 gift cards, respectively. All top photos will be published in Rural Missouri in February 2026.

This year’s categories are:

• Parks Less Traveled — Highlight the hidden corners or lesser-known parks around the state.

• Adventure & Recreation — Capture the action, from hiking and kayaking to camping and off-roading.

• Park Heroes & Volunteers at Work — Show the people who help make park visits special.

• Learning Something New — Feature educational or unique experiences at the parks, such as cave tours or heritage crafts.

• On The Trail — Celebrate Missouri’s 1,000-plus miles of trails, from footpaths to waterways.

Photo Tips to Stand Out:

• Follow the Rules — Photos must be taken in a park or historic site operated by Missouri State Parks. Photos from federal, city or county parks won’t be considered.

• Timing Is Key — Early morning or golden hour lighting just before sunset can turn an average state park photo into a standout winner.

• Mind Your Composition — Clean backgrounds and high-resolution images are essential. Skip the social media downloads and send in original images.

• People and Pets Welcome — Judges love candid shots of visitors enjoying the park experience.

• Play With Angles — Try low or high perspectives. Drone shots are allowed but must adhere to park rules.

• Dig Through Your Archives — Past photos are fair game in the contest, as long as they haven’t previously won.

Email pnewton@ruralmissouri.coop with any questions. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise shot, snapping your dog on a trail or documenting a ranger leading a tour, there’s a place for your photo in this year’s contest.