The state DEC’s 3rd annual Fall Foliage Photo Contests are underway. The two photo contests are a popular way for New Yorkers and visitors to show off the incredible array of fall foliage throughout New York State during the month of October.
DEC is asking New Yorkers to share their favorite and most creative fall foliage shots showcasing New York State. Photos should be submitted to [email protected] with the subject line “Fall Foliage Photo Contest” or “Conservationist Magazine Photo Contest.” Participants are advised to attach one photo per email entry and include the location the photo was taken (can be general and not specific). Pictures must be of a location in New York State.
Fall Foliage Instagram Contest DEC will share submissions on Instagram throughout the month. On four consecutive Fridays (Oct. 11, Oct. 18, Oct. 25, and Nov. 1), DEC will announce three winners for each week. Each winner will receive a $100 gift card to a sporting goods store, a free year subscription to Conservationist magazine, a copy of DEC’s New York State Wildlife Viewing Guide, a DEC reusable bag, and other swag.
During the week of Nov. 4-8, DEC will hold an Instagram story bracket featuring all 12 winners, and followers will have the opportunity to vote for a grand prize winner. In addition to the prizes mentioned, the grand prize winner will receive a 2025 Empire Pass. The Empire Pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most facilities operated by DEC and New York State Parks including forests, beaches, trails, and more. Conservationist Magazine Photo Contest
Photos must be a minimum of 8.5”x10.75” and 300dpi to be considered. The winning photo will be featured in the October/November 2025 issue of DEC’s Conservationist magazine. The two photo contests support Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, which was launched to encourage New York’s kids and families to enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings by putting their mental and physical health first.
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