Northwest Exposure Photo Contest FAQ
Have questions about the 2025 Northwest Exposure Photo Contest? See if we’ve answered them here! We also encourage you to read the contest rules and check out the tips from our judges.
When does the contest start and end?
The contest kicks off on Aug. 11, 2025 and ends at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time on Oct. 6, 2025. All photos need to be submitted by that time for consideration.
Can I submit a photo taken before 2025?
Yes, photos can be taken in 2025 or any year prior, although we do encourage more recent entries.
How many photos can I submit to each category?
We welcome five photos per photographer to our main contest categories (Trailscapes, Hikers in Action, Flora & Fauna and Trail Family). Bonus categories (Instagram and Random Acts of Kindness) welcome unlimited entries.
Can I provide information about my photo?
Yes! You will have the opportunity to submit a caption for your photo. This is a great chance to share the photo's story and what the photo means to you. We also ask that you include the location of your photo as well as the official trail name, wherever applicable.
How will WTA credit my photo?
We will credit with first and last name provided in your submission.
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. For the Instagram category, the last version 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. However, 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 through hikers' eyes. We do ask that you not use artificial intelligence (AI) to generate or alter any images.
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, you must have their permission prior to submitting the photo.
Do I have to live in Washington to enter?
No, you do not need to reside in Washington to enter the photo contest.
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?
All entrants agree to allow Washington Trails Association to publish any submitted photograph in its magazine, website or other materials to help support WTA's mission to promote and protect Washington’s trails and public lands.
Photos entered are bound under a non-exclusive license, which means you still retain ownership of your image and can use it how you would like. WTA will never sell your image, but your photos may be used in our promotional materials to help us with our work. WTA credits photographers for all image usage on our website and printed materials.