Florida State Parks has announced the winners of its 2025 Capture the Real Florida Photo Contest. The contest, which received thousands of entries from across the state, recognized outstanding photography in five categories: Landscapes, Waterscapes, Wildlife, Park Adventures, and Historic Encounters. The Historic Encounters category was added this year to mark America’s 250th anniversary.
Each category awarded a Grand Prize, Runner-Up, and People’s Choice Award. Grand Prize winners received a $1,000 B&H Photo gift card, a Florida State Parks Annual Pass, a stand-up paddleboard, and a hammock.
The winning photos are available for viewing on the Photo Contest webpage. In addition to online display, the photographs will be featured at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park during its Winter Waterland celebration.
Director of Florida State Parks Chuck Hatcher said: “Every year, our visitors capture breathtaking moments that remind us why our state parks are among the most treasured places in the country. Thank you to everyone who shared their images. I invite all Floridians to get out and discover our state parks and maybe even grab that perfect shot.”
The Grand Prize recipients for each category are:
– Landscapes: Shane Carrol for “Not Alone” at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park in Sanderson.
– Waterscapes: Dawn Campbell for “Early Dawn” at Silver Springs State Park in Ocala.
– Wildlife: Michelle Huguet for “Eyes of the Forest” at Myakka River State Park in Sarasota.
– Park Adventures: Heather Bossowski for “A Camp Sunrise at Gamble Rogers” at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area in Flagler Beach.
– Historic Encounters: Valleri Ames for “Echoes of Bulow Plantation” at Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park in Ormond Beach.
The photo contest is organized with support from Tyler Technologies, which manages reservations for overnight stays at Florida’s state parks.
Photographers interested in participating next year can begin taking photos starting January 1, 2026. The submission portal will open in November 2026.
Florida’s network includes 175 award-winning state parks, trails and historic sites offering diverse opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
