By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau Communication Director: In Arizona, we have some of the most dramatic scenery right on our own farms and ranches. So, you should be ready to share this with the world!

Silouette Cowboy photo by Kaylin Tally.

Submissions are still being accepted for the American Farm Bureau Federation and American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture’s 2015 Farm Bureau Photo Contest. The contest is open to all state and county Farm Bureau members and staff above 18 years of age at the time of entry, including professional photographers.

“The winter months offer many opportunities to get great pictures of farmers and ranchers working safely on the farm,” said Kim Baker, AFBF’s assistant director, creative services. “We want to showcase what life on the farm is really like, and these authentic photos will help tell agriculture’s story.”

Photo submissions will be used to accurately portray today’s agriculture and the safe practices of farmers and ranchers. Additionally, submissions will also be used for future publications, promotions and social media by AFBF and related companies. All photos submitted must exemplify safe practices on the farm or ranch.

The contest is open for submissions until March 31, 2016. Photos may be entered in four categories: Farm Families, Farm Labor, Technology and Consumer Outreach. Monetary prizes will be awarded to the top three placing photos from each category. First place winners will be awarded $150, second place, $100 and third place, $75.

Contest winners will be announced April 15, 2016, on Farm Bureau’s social media platforms and website.

Quick Tips for Great Photos

Remember to consider the following tips when taking photos; advice from Kodak.

  • Remember to look your subject in the eye.
  • Become a picture director, in other words set up the shot.
  • Use a plain background.
  • Use flash outdoors.
  • Move in close
  • Move your main subject(s) from the middle
  • Lock the focus.
  • Know your flash’s range.
  • Watch the light.
  • Take some vertical pictures.

For more information on how to register and to view the contest rules and regulations, visit the 2016 Farm Bureau Photo Contest webpage at http://www.fb.org/programs/photocontest/.

Questions about the contest may be sent via email to photocontest@fb.org.

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