A Night to Remember: Celebrating Youth Creativity at the Emotions in Nature & Wildlife Photography Contest

A Celebration of Young Talent

On Friday, April 25, 2025, Kidz n Cameras hosted the Emotions in Nature & Wildlife Photography Contest & Award Ceremony, a heartwarming celebration of young photographers showcasing their passion, creativity, and skill. With over 70 submissions, this event highlighted the power of youth voices in art and photography.

The ceremony brought together more than 150 attendees, who supported and celebrated these budding artists. We were thrilled to announce our contest winners and honorable mentions across three age categories: 3rd-6th Grade, 7th-9th Grade, and 10th-12th Grade.

Meet the Winners

Below are the winners and honorable mentions in each category. Each of their submissions stood out for their creative vision, emotional depth, and technical skill.

✨ 3rd – 6th Grade Category

Honorable Mentions:

View fullsize

Cassidy Finn: "Heart of the Earth"

View fullsize

Cassidy Porter: "Hooked by the Magic"

View fullsize

Emery Simons: "Elk Meadow"

View fullsize

McKenzie Peterson: "Bloom into You"

View fullsize

Peighton Goodman: "Papa's Legacy"

View fullsize

Phillip Sizemore: "Bridge Between Seasons"

Top 3 Winners:

View fullsize

🥉"So Many Colors" by Violet Morrison

View fullsize

🥈"In the Garden" by Charlotte Jesse

View fullsize

🥇"Foggy Morning at the Pines" by Olivia Kelley

✨ 7th – 9th Grade Category

Honorable Mentions:

Felix Ortiz: "Peaceful Sunset"

Grant Boomer: "Keeping the Movement"

Maddie McKinnis: "Grandmother's Pond"

Zane Porter: "Golden Echoes of Laughter"

Top 3 Winners:

🥉"Whispers of Spring" by Karis Behl

🥈"My Peace" by Elizabeth Bemis

🥇"The Squirrel Stares" by Thomas Belnap

✨ 10th – 12th Grade Category

Honorable Mentions:

Austin Krug: "Itsy Bitsy Bug"

Brendan Turnbaugh: "Tanyard Waterfall"

Calla Bowling: "Maiden Flight"

Gretta Dietrich: "Reflection on Little Sugar Creek"

Ian Osmon: "A Curious Branch"

Madelyn Jesse: "Why the Long Sky"

Piper Gilchrist: "Yellow Haze"

Sebastian Robards: "Between Earth and Sky"

Top 3 Winners:

🥉"Distinction" by Blake Dickson

🥈"Silent Resilience" by Riley Crow

🥇"Sana Sana Colita De Rana" by Kate Ruan

Support Future Artistic Excellence

As we reflect on the success of this contest and look ahead to future events, we are reminded of how important community support is in making these experiences possible. If you’d like to help us continue empowering youth through photography, please consider making a donation.

Your support goes a long way in shaping the future of these young artists and ensuring that their voices are heard. To make a donation, click the link below:

Donate to Kidz n Cameras

[Insert Image Gallery Block here]

Thank You for Your Support

We couldn’t have done this without the generosity and encouragement from all of our supporters, volunteers, and attendees. Your contributions are helping foster a love for photography and the arts in these young creatives.

We are excited to announce that the Emotions in Nature & Wildlife Photography Contest will become an annual event, and we look forward to seeing even more talented photographers join us in the future. Thank you for being part of this amazing journey!

Watch the Ceremony!

We’re excited to share both the full ceremony video and the highlight reel below so you can relive the incredible moments from the evening. You’ll get a chance to see the winners, honorable mentions, and the inspiring stories behind their work.

Kidz N Cameras | Emotions in Nature and Wildlife Award Ceremony | Full Ceremony Video

Kidz N Cameras | Emotions in Nature and Wildlife Award Ceremony | Highlight Reel

[Watch the Highlight Video]

Gallery of Contest Entries

Now, take a moment to browse the full gallery of entries from the Emotions in Nature & Wildlife Photography Contest. These images reflect the raw beauty and emotional depth captured by our talented young photographers.

3rd-6th Grade

The lovely spring trees by Aaliyah Lowder

I love nature! But we have a love hate relationship due to mosquitoes and the pollen. But I love it because

of the beautiful trees and my favorite color is pink. Things are growing and blooming.

The Wonderous Waterfall of Arkansas by Ava Hood

The waterfall made me feel peaceful and calm. I tried to capture that in my photo.

80,000 Tulips by Campbell Draine

This photograph shows the beauty of the recently bloomed tulips while our family visited Neal Family Farm in Rogers. We were there to enjoy some sun after a rainy day, and to pick flowers for our teachers and our home.
I love plants and animals so I thought this would show both the colorful beauty of the flowers and the peaceful grazing of the cows nearby. The calm blue sky and lines of soft clouds were perfect for this shot.

Hooked by the Magic by Cassidy Porter

I know what you’re thinking. This fish isn’t that big. It’s not that impressive. Beautiful, but nothing that spectacular to write about. But, as with all big fishing stories, this story is also delightful. And guess what? It’s not exaggerated at all.

During the summers in Arkansas, we love to go to the creeks. We cool off in the ones around our house, the ones we can ride our bikes to and especially the ones we can hike and swim through. This particular barefooted creek experience is magical. More magical than the normal magic of a creek with a few kids in it.

My friends and I showed up, unprepared to make our own magic. I felt the cool water up my legs, the rough and pointy Arkansas rocks on my feet, smelled the earthy scent around me, soaked up the sunshine on my face and looked around at the bright and rich colors all around me. I wanted to spend some time here just taking it all in, so I said out loud to my friends who were there with me, “Aww man! I wish I brought my fishing pole!!”

I bet you can’t guess what happened next! My friend Eleanor looked down at her feet. And there, below the surface, wedged next to some rocks was a tiny fishing pole! WHAT??? It was covered in green, mossy algae. The reel wouldn’t spin very easily. So, we scrubbed it clean with our fingers in the creek. We gave it a few hard spins and cast it into the water a few times. Then we found a nice deep spot in the water and sat on the riverbank, just like it’s previous owner would have done.

And that’s when we got a bite. We couldn’t believe it! A normal summer day at the creek is always a good time, but this time, it was epic. Friends, a little wish, and then this little guy, giving us a thrill and reminding us that creeks are magic, and Arkansas is where all the magic happens.

In the Garden by Charlotte Jesse

"In the Garden" is a photo that expresses the emotions of peace and gratitude, this photo captures peace because his facial expressions show the dog relaxed and not worried on life. This photo also represents for me personally gratitude for my dog because he is my inspiration for starting photography and is prepared for any photos at any time.

Merida's Spell Cake by Delilah Shepherd

I was hiking on a Devil's Den trail with my family, looking at a blue jay singing his merry little song on the

forest floor. While I was looking at the bird, I saw this nut shell on a mossy rock and it reminded me of

Merida's Spell Cake (from the movie Brave). Seeing the nut with the dark inside with tiny white speckles ,

and dough-like outer shell, made it seem so much like the magic cake that turned Merida's mum into a

bear. Remembering this scene made me feel the magic of the forest.

I wondered how the shell got so evenly cracked. Was it by a human, a squirrel or a bird? I don't think I'll ever

know the answer, but I can always keep my eyes open for the creature each time I visit the forest.

Elk Meadow by Emery Simons

I captured this lone bull elk feeding in Ponca Valley near the Buffalo River. The dense cool fog rolled through the valley and the heard of elk prepared to bed down for the evening. The lone bull stood watch over his family as the sun retreated its warmth. The temperature dropped as the blanket of fog tucked them in for the night. This photo captures the protective instinct of a father watching over his family, standing guard over them as they rest.

The Hidden Passageway by Emma Ray

As I was on a hike with my family, I walked around a bend and saw this hidden passageway. I was so curious in what could be up there. This natural staircase to a hidden world was calling me to explore. All I wanted to do was climb up and pretend to be in a magical land. But my Mom said “No way- there are probably snakes up there”! My imagination was stumped so I took this photo to remember the feeling of curiosity and wonder. I love to explore outside and pretend to be things such as an archeologist or a chef! This hike made me feel like I was in a storybook land. Maybe one day I can go back and explore up the passageway!

Heart of the Earth by Finn Cassidy

I took this photo of the Open Heart sculpture at Compton Gardens & Arboretum in Bentonville, Arkansas. I wanted to take this photo because it makes me happy. When I spotted this out in nature, it made me think of all the good things the earth gives us.

I love the way the sunshine bounces off the front of the statue. It gives a sense of a brand new day. The sunlight represents new opportunities. I took this photo at the beginning of spring when things start to come alive and start to bloom.

Through the open heart, I feel like the sculpture represents love, fresh air, plants, animals, and beautiful places in the gardens to explore. It looks like the arms grew right out of the ground and the earth is giving us all these wonderful things.

Bloom into You by McKenzie Peterson

I saw this beautiful tree blooming in a forest of bare trees at Beaver Lake. It looked so different from all of the other trees around it. Even though it was surrounded by all of these bland trees, it was not afraid to bloom at its own pace and be unique. It inspired me to be myself, stand out, and not be afraid of what others think. This tree symbolizes that nature can inspire us to be better versions of ourselves and have fun just being you. It taught me that I do not need to follow the trends like everyone else and it is ok to be different while also being part of a group.

Foggy Morning at The Pines by Olivia Kelley

My family loves to camp at the Pines, part of the Beaver Dam of Arkansas. My favorite time to camp is during the fall. I love to hike and take pictures of different things along the way, from bugs to leaves to scenery.

I enjoy being in nature because it brings me great joy. By taking photographs, it gives me a sense of happiness that I can hold on to and share with family and friends.

I took this picture because I love to capture nature’s beauty while we are camping. This picture represents the calming and peacefulness of the great outdoor.

When I sit and admire nature’s beauty, I feel a sense of harmony with mother nature. This picture shows the inner peace of me, calm but yet flowing along like the river.

Everyone should get out and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The 'Golden' Hour by Parker Day

I took this picture because I really like flowers and two it made me feel happy because if you look at my picture they are very bright colors and that is why I took his picture.

Papas Legacy by Peighton Goodman

I have a deep appreciation for my Papa, he is incredibly kind and truly the best. Despite having battled cancer, he continues to prioritize others. In his spare time, he started a farm, and I cherish the moments I spend helping him with it. Recently, while feeding the cows, I captured a special moment. Their names are Sunny and Coco, and they are both very sweet—definitely gentle creatures that wouldn't hurt a fly.

Bridge Between Seasons by Phillip Sizemore

This photo captures the brief period of time between the hot Arkansas summer and frigid cold of winter. Fall in the Ozarks is a fleeting moment that is rich with the changing colors of leaves. Not only is the blanket of colors that drape the rolling hills beautiful to see, it reminds me of how beautiful it is to let things go. Just as the trees let their leaves go, there's a beauty in letting things in our lives have their moment and then pass away. It creates value in the moment and reminds us to always be present.

So Many Colors by Violet Morrison

Sadness, madness, and happiness altogether.

7th-9th Grade

Purple Flowers by Chloe Shepherd

I took this picture while walking around a botanical garden on a sunny spring day. They had a LOT of bloomed flowers, and that made me excited to take pictures of them. Some of the pictures were not good, but I improved my lens focusing skills, and some pictures turned out really good.
I liked that these flowers are tilting with other flowers in the background that I could blur out. The color scheme was spring and happy with the different shades of green and purple and I thought that I could take this picture and make everyone who saw it feel happy as well.

My Peace by Elizabeth Bemis

Through this photo, I want the audience to have a sense of peace. The blooming flowers of the tree, accompanied by the memorizing sunset in the backdrop radiate serenity. I hoped to capture the harmony of nature and Arkansas in this photo, showcasing Arkansas' natural and beautiful features.

The fact that I found beauty in the peace of this photo is significant to me personally. Being a teenager, I go through many struggles that put stress on my life. However, in this photo, I could feel a sense of calmness in my mind. That calmness and comfort is what I wished to convey to viewers. Everyone should have that feeling.

Droplets Delivering Delight at Devil's Den by Emily Turnbaugh

When I first saw the beautiful waterfall, it gave me an overwhelming sense of peace and calmness. It made me feel like the only thing that mattered in that moment was the quiet pitter-patter of the water droplets as they hit the ground. I immediately captured a photo of it, wanting to savor that moment forever.
Since unfortunately not everyone is able to visit Devil's Den State Park to see the magnificent falls, I still want them to experience it. Since many people enjoy visiting Crystal Bridges, I would like for them to see it through my photo. My hope is that they will be able to feel the emotions when looking at the cascading water just as strongly as I did. My goal is that if they are going through something or even if they’re just a little stressed out, I want them to look at this and have all their worries melt away. For them to simply be in the moment. That is what I want out of this photograph.

Peaceful sunset by Felix Ortiz

The image of the sunset evokes a sense of tranquility and reflection. The vibrant pink and orange hues blend seamlessly, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that can make anyone pause and appreciate the beauty of nature. The street with the crosswalk symbolizes a journey, inviting thoughts about the paths we take in life. As the sun sets, it often brings a feeling of closure to the day, prompting introspection about what has transpired and what lies ahead. The parked car suggests a moment of stillness, allowing the viewer to soak in the serene landscape. This scene captures the fleeting nature of time, reminding us to cherish these quiet moments of beauty amidst our busy lives. Overall, the sunset serves as a reminder of hope and the promise of new beginnings with each new day.

Keeping the movement by Grant Boomer

The emotional significance of this piece to me is how the squirrels of NWA constantly keep the movement. No matter where or when, the little guys are there, keeping the forests active and alive for us to enjoy. Every day when I walk home or when I go outside, there are always a few squirrels around me. They bring noise and beauty to my surroundings and remind me that everything around us has life and complexity. That little reminder is important to me because without it, the areas around me feel dead, especially in the winter months when the greenery can’t bloom and show out. What the plants can’t do, these amazing squirrels make up for. They prove that even in the bleakest of times there is life all around us. I choose to represent myself with this art so show life and movement in the natural state.

Gaias Reaping by Graydon Davidson

In this photograph I named “Gaias Reaping” I tried to depict a sense of new beginnings, or life sprouting from the death of an animal. “Gaia” as shown is the personification of earth, or the mother of all life. The reaping(crying) is represented by Gaia’s beautiful creation ceasing to exist, and then providing for new life to grow once more following its final breath. These emotional hold personal meaning to me for several reasons. I believe that people can have new beginnings, second chances if they choose to follow the right path once more. No direction is set in stone, you will always have the option to climb back uphill, swim back to the surface, no matter how far you’ve descended. Another way this photo represents new beginnings is from death itself. Loss is something that everyone will experience in their life, it rips and tears, pulls you down and strips you of your happiness. Doesn’t mean it’s the end. The greatest, most successful people in the world have had to take some sort of massive downfall-the ones that are successful are the people who choose to take a stand, force themselves to break free of the chains binding them and become even stronger, positive individuals. Ripe to do incredible things in this lifetime. Finally, my inspiration for this photo was originally Native American folklore or any type of deity related to life and or death.

Rebirth in Motion by Jaxson Bare

One of my favorite things about Arkansas is that we get to enjoy all four seasons. Sometimes all in the same day. The cherry blossom tree means that spring has sprung and summer is just around corner. I love seeing the bright pink blooms changing the scenery from the darker browns and grays of winter. This particular photo of a cherry blossom that has fallen from the tree and is floating down the creek reminds me of how fragile life is and how quickly things can change. Who knows? Maybe this will be the beginning of a new tree further downstream.

The Road in Balance by Kaitlynn Cullens

This photo was taken during a quiet moment at sunset in Winslow, Arkansas, on the back roads to a family member's house. Everything felt calm yet full of energy. I wanted to capture the peaceful feeling I get when I see the sun set behind the hills but with a bit of contrast between the light and dark. The sunlight reflecting on top of the clouds made them look almost heavenly, while the rest of the clouds stayed dark, creating this balance of light and shadow. The trees on the left and the telephone pole on the right gave a sense of framing, almost like nature and man-made objects were working together to hold the scene in place. The dirt road leading to the sunset made me think of the journey we all take, whether it's through life or just driving down a quiet road. I wanted to use that as a symbol to remind everyone that life is a roller coaster or a bumpy dirt road. We sometimes forget to enjoy the ride and appreciate the beauty in the small things of that journey. The stop sign and mailbox remind me that even in the most peaceful nature scenes, there are signs of life and the world around us. I wanted to show how the beauty of nature can coexist with the things we build, creating a sense of harmony and calm yet still vibrant with life.

Whispers of Spring by Karis Behl

This piece is meant to capture the beauty, tranquility, and promise of a new spring. The photo itself is of a newly flowering crab apple tree. The buds that are not yet bloomed represent a cycle of peaceful rebirth that comes with every season, especially during spring.

The emotion that is shown through this piece is that of hope and joy, knowing that this is a time of renewal for all living beings. With this photo I hope to evoke a sense of life and being through the viewer, so they can feel the same personal connection to nature that I had when taking this photo.

Sky Above, Roots Below by Lily Peacock

In my photo, I aimed to capture a sense of peace and wonder. People often become so absorbed in their daily lives that they overlook the beauty of the world around them. By combining the vast night sky with the sturdy trees, I wanted to convey how peace and wonder can coexist. The title "Sky Above, Roots Below" reflects the connection between these elements. While we gaze upward in awe, it's equally important to appreciate the stability provided by the earth beneath our feet. This image serves as a reminder to pause, breathe, and connect with nature, allowing ourselves to be grounded and uplifted simultaneously.

Grandmother's Pond by Maddie McKinnis

This photo was taken at my grandma's house. In her side yard, there's this fence and this pond is on the other side. Every time I was at her house, I would watch the sparkle of the setting sun on the pond and think, “This is a perfect moment.” I've always loved my grandma and summer days at her house will always be memories I will fondly look back on.

I was aiming to capture a moment that makes you feel like you're at grandmother's house, sitting with her on the porch, her in her rocking chair and you on your mini camping chair, at sunset. Or looking out the window while you bake those famous cookies of hers together. I want to keep that moment still and remind you of her smell, the way she dressed, the way her hair sat, and the way she always made you feel. Like home.

A Celestial Canvas Beyond Bare Branches by Niranjan Sabari Nair

The sunset always ushers in silence and marks the day’s end. I was trying to capture the beauty of the sun’s rays before they faded away!

The Waiting Tree by Paityn Peterson

I saw this cool tree on my way home from Beaver Lake with my family. Looking at this tree I imagined it was waiting for something. Maybe it is waiting for spring or the birds and other animals that will soon make their home in the shadows of the branches. Maybe it is waiting for new leaves to grow and flowers to blossom all around it, covering the ground in splashes of vibrant shades of yellow and violet. Maybe it’s waiting for the gentle sounds of laughter made by the people returning for the summer. We are all waiting for something whether it’s a new season or an old friend, we wait with hope for tomorrow.

Morning on the River by Rance Gammon

This photo shows confidence, power and family. This picture shows a group of ducks that are traveling together and makes me think about my friends and family as we are always together. The bird coming in for landing is confident and determined and it reminds me to keep my head up even when challenged. This photo can have a lot of emotions for different reasons. I hope when other view this picture it inspires them.

A Silent Sunset by Scarlett Rivers

In this photo, I wanted to capture the peaceful and cozy feeling of watching a sunset. The bright oranges, pinks, and purples in the sky make me feel warm and happy, but also a little bit dreamy and thoughtful. To me, sunsets are like a reminder that even when a day ends, something beautiful can come from it.

This picture is special to me because it makes me feel calm and connected to nature. When I look at the sky like this, it helps me slow down and enjoy the moment. I hope that when people see my photo, they also feel peaceful and reminded of the beauty all around them.

The Squirrel Stares by Thomas Belnap

I was in a wooded park with a lake, many creeks, and even more animals. I had been following this squirrel for what seemed like hours, watching him dart effortlessly through the trees. As he was climbing, I was quickly clicking the shutter, trying to stay as quiet and subtle as possible while still capturing him in a beautiful and majestic way.

As the squirrel continued climbing, he was constantly searching for places to hide and blend in. His muted gray and brown tones easily camouflaged with the tree, and as I was photographing this behavior, I found it hard to find him.

Soon after, the squirrel rapidly scurried to an area with very few branches and leaves, so I could see him very clearly. Just then, a very special thing happened: he looked directly down at me from his lofty perch in the tree, staring into my eyes. I looked up at him from the ground and wondered what he may have been thinking of me. Did he think I was strange, an oddly shaped mass of color with a large black barrel protruding from my face?

As this squirrel stood still and stared down at me, I felt an emotional connection to him. He seemed scared at first, but as I followed him, I found that he was actually very brave and adventurous. He allowed me to spectate his activities and watch his interesting behaviors.

This image evokes a sense of connection for me; a connection to nature and animals and how amazing our Earth is. People often don’t stop to see the ordinary, but I find that in the ordinary things, you can always discover something magical.

Thomas Belnap by Zane Porter

As the last rays of sun shine across the darkening waters of Beaver Lake, my amazing day comes to a relaxing end. Earlier today, sounds of happiness and laughter echo back through my mind as I remember the many activities we did this afternoon.

At the beginning of my lazy afternoon, we held on for our lives as we laughed and bounced around across the waves in a tube, jumped into the refreshing and cool water as we floated and splashed each other in a peaceful tree lined cove, and wakeboarded with the wind whistling through my hair as the adrenaline pumped through my body. The day left everyone feeling tired yet excited for our next trip (Which was probably the next Friday.) . Now, as our day comes to an end, the amazing memories I have made on this lake echo back to me, and I get overwhelmed with happiness as I think back on the fun things we did with friends and family.

The pink and orange sky starts to fade to a deep purple, and moments like this are a reason to relax and escape from the chaotic and crazy world. The water in this lake provides freedom from the world and gives an adventure to anyone who decides to spend a weekend there. And finally, the dark trees in the distance create a mysterious mood and mix with the happy and joyful feelings of the sun and water. It reminds us that even through the mystery of difficult and unclear challenges that we face in our lives, there is always a way to find a source of light and happiness.

As my great-grandpa Don would say if he were here with us: “It doesn’t get any better than this.” So rather than take these beautiful moments for granted, I want to be sure I treasure each and every one.

10th-12th Grade

Silent Rebirth: Life Amidst Death by Alana Harris

The emotional goal through this photo was comfort within an end in order to achieve a new beginning. I seem to be stuck somewhere in the five stages of grief. Accepting that everything must come to an end it highly discomforting. However, certain things must end for newer, beautiful things to arise.

Resilience by Allison Whitaker

In this piece, I photographed a tufted titmouse eating seed while seated at a feeder. At first glance, it might seem to be a simplistic scene, but it represents the hours of learned patience that can only be shown through nature. When I first set out to take pictures of Arkansas wildlife, I was not fully sure what I wanted to capture. I found myself in front of a bird feeder, where numerous species of birds were visiting for their evening meal. I decided to sit down and observe the flow of wildlife around me. The reason that the tufted titmouse in particular caught my attention was because of its curious nature. While the other, much larger birds flew away instantaneously upon my approach, the tiny tufted titmouse stood his ground and bravely observed my foreign presence, all the while continuing to crack open and eat seeds. I recognized this bird as one of the regulars at the bird feeder. This beautiful moment of mutual curiosity sparked a sense of connection in me. I find it extremely inspiring that despite the creature’s size, the titmouse was the very last to leave the feeder. I wished to preserve the small bird’s resilience through my photograph. As someone who lives in rapidly growing Northwest Arkansas, this moment of patience and stillness was something that I have been unable to find outside of nature.

Landscape by Amari Schwartz

I felt peace. A feeling of content. Something thst calmed my soul just like the beautiful state of arkansas does.

The grass is always greener on the other side by Annie Pahulu

Throughout this picture, I aimed to capture hope. Although at first this appears to be a plain picture of the sunset and a couple trees, upon closer observation, it can be seen that the picture is captured from the perspective of someone watching from the other side of the setting. Although the veiwer can only glimpse at the setting through an opening in the trees, they see enough to have an instilled sense of longing, while still being curious of what is ahead. Overall, this interpretation symbolizes the universal hope for anything that appeals to the eye, even though we may still wonder about it.

Golden Reflections by Apollo Hudson

The photo was meant to be one of happiness and contentment. The sunset rays give off a warm and cozy feeling to the viewer. The bright colors also show off the more joyful side of nature, with the intense hues of blue and orange. This spot holds a personal meaning to me since I have a collection of fond memories of this area. It was always a peaceful and calm area, and the light gave off a warm and pleasant feeling. This picture holds a warmth even though it was taken in the dead of winter, which gives hope for the warmer times of Spring to come.

Itsy Bitsy Bug by Austin Krug

This photograph reveals the small but amazing wildlife that dwells, and is often hidden, among us. As I took the time to observe the area around Bella Vista Lake, I noticed this small, silly-looking bug. I felt a smile creep across my face because I had never seen an insect like this before. I was reminded of the value of taking the time to appreciate the environment around me, especially its wildlife.
As the bug sits on a leaf floating above the water, I am humbled by just how important even an insect like this is to the foundations of Mother Nature, and similarly, the foundations of our own lives. As we grow and learn to navigate our emotions and passions, we can sometimes forget our place in the world. I have questioned myself, “What will be my purpose?”. I do not even know the name or origin of this bug but I know its importance to the environment it lives in. That is similar to us as people in the world. We’re small, but that doesn’t mean our lives are insignificant.
Through this photo, I hope people are humbled by something greater than them, but I also hope that they are reminded that their life is important too. I have to remind myself of that daily. The smile I experienced that day will never be recreated by another person, but I hope to spark that same engagement and interest with the environment around us.

Distinction by Blake Dickson

With a sense of distinction, many wish to watch from afar, hoping to maintain a status of independence. This photo encapsulates this beautifully, showing an otherwise unnoticed friend watching from afar. As a photographer, watching things from a different angle, I carry this with me heavily.

Season's Change by Blythe Heimer

This photograph represents the beauty of spring in Arkansas. After a dull and dreary winter, the first pops of color reappear, and you can’t help but smile. In this picture, I intended to capture the joy of seeing the first flowers that show the best time of year is just around the corner: spring. In the foreground, two white plants vignette the focal point of the image, a sprig of purple flowers in the center. As I was on a walk in the park, I noticed these flowers and sprinted to my car to grab my camera. The gorgeous violet colors shining through the clean, white buds are reminiscent of the shining sun through the trees, I absolutely had to capture them.

Tanyard Waterfall by Brendan Turnbaugh

My photo captures a tranquil waterfall that, in the moment, appears ever peaceful, yet will continue to transport millions of gallons of water throughout its life—far more than any human could ever do. Therefore, I have attempted to capture both the beauty of the waterfall as seen in the moment and the sense of power it holds, rising above the camera itself.
It creates its own path, carving through the land and forming slightly alkaline puddles on the nearby rocks as it flows. This motion is visibly seen in this one, continuing even through twilight when the photo was taken. And yet, despite this constant eating away of the earth, the waterfall allows life to thrive, hosting a suitable environment for rich trees and moss.
In this photo, the waterfall appears as a menacing force upon the earth, yet it also serves as a haven for animals and plants to thrive—one small segment of its long life captured in a photograph.
This is important to me, because it helps me remember that hard work might not have a noticeable result in the moment, but it will create small changes that will greatly pay off in the long term.

Maiden Flight by Calla Bowling

The photo depicts two geese flying across a glowing sunrise. They are taking flight for the first time that day, with the sun beginning to rise. I wanted to capture a sense of freshness in that moment. The sunrise is meant to symbolize starting over and beginning anew. A new day is infinitely different from the day before, and at sunrise everything springs to life, the birds sing, and the trees grow. I felt a sense of peace watching the sun rise and listening to the birds and the bright colors reflecting softly on the water helped bring the feeling of peace into the photograph. Nothing has happened quite yet, but the geese have started their maiden flight. These feelings mean a lot to me because I have a lot of bad days and a lot of good days and the ability to start fresh is a good thing to have. It means that having a bad day does not lead to having a bad week. It means that nothing lasts forever, and eventually something beautiful will come out of your fresh start.

Dew Beginnings by Ellison Hyman

This photo was taken early in the quiet morning. I had gotten up before the sun to experiment with my camera and captured many beautiful photos out in the field. This particular photo from my early morning session stuck out to me the most, as the small blue flower bud popped out among the green grassy background.

To me, this photo is a reminder of the beauty and purity of nature, as the flower has not yet bloomed, representing its fragility and innocence. There are also droplets of dew coating the leaves and grass, which can be a symbol of life and new beginnings.

This photo makes me feel empowered, and when I focus on the little details of the flower bud, or the leaves, it reminds me to find beauty in the little things.

One Tree in Thornbury by Emerson Matushek

This photo symbolizes the importance of nature, whether that be a single tree or a whole forest. While many landscape shots prioritize the beauty of landmarks and vast stretches of land, I chose to place emphasis instead on one of my neighborhood’s trees. This helps to communicate how nature is all around us, and should be admired no matter its perceived grandeur.

There’s a strong contrast in lighting between the tree and the background, our subject being heavily illuminated by a nearby streetlight. This further emphasizes the tree as our singular subject and causes its vibrant greens to pop against the gray night sky. Even despite its implied solitude, the background is lush with other, more obscured trees, further highlighting the subject’s significance in captivity. While one would usually gloss over this tree impersonally, the photograph gives it some time in the spotlight so one can recognize the beauty even just one tree has.

Barren Fork of Water Creek by Emma Morrow

I wanted this photo to capture the emotions of anticipation of and for what this land might be in the future. The grass in this photo is just beginning to green and grow for spring, an example of anticipation for the new life that comes in spring. It is a tranquil but barren scene.

This valley is the Barren Fork of Water Creek that feeds the Buffalo River. A drop of water that falls here goes into our first National River.

This land inspires me to think about how it was formed from a high plain to an eroded valley carved by water.

I was aiming to capture the peace and tranquility in this landscape. I am consumed by nature in this place. I am connected to the formation of the land, the earlier inhabitants, and the plants and animals that are there today.

This weekend we found part of an arrowhead, observed refuse from earlier generations, saw natural springs, watercress, red buds, dogwood, turkey, a snake, deer, and bald eagles in this very spot. These are all part of the diverse ecosystem in Arkansas.

Finding these things inspires my emotions of excitement, awe, wonder, and contentment.

Sunset on 112 by Evie Brashears

My love of the sunset is what inspired me to take this photograph. This photo was taken to capture the emotion that comes from looking at the sunset. Walking out of work to see the sky in all its beauty is a feeling I love to experience.
The dark colors at the bottom of the photo perfectly contrast the colors of the top.
I wanted this photo to make the viewer feel the awe and wonder of the sky.
Whether it's after work on my way home, or just sitting outside enjoying life, the sunset is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty that nature is.

Reflection On Little Sugar Creek by Gretta Dietrich

Reflection On Little Sugar Creek

The beauty of Arkansas is often overlooked. Each season brings breathtaking views—spring and summer bursting with vibrant florals and lush greens. But as temperatures drop and leaves fall, the appreciation for nature’s scenery tends to fade.

One late autumn afternoon, just before winter fully set in, my younger brother and I took a short hike around Little Sugar Creek in Benton County. What seemed like an ordinary outing turned into an unforgettable moment. The trees stood bare, and the flowers had long since disappeared, yet as the sun began to set, the sky ignited with brilliant colors, casting a vivid reflection on the creek’s surface. In that instant, I felt a surge of inspiration. I quickly reached for my iPhone, determined to capture this unexpected beauty.

Having spent countless summer hours at the creek, I was familiar with its inviting scenery, but this moment reshaped my perspective. I realized that its beauty wasn’t just seasonal—it was constant, changing, and worthy of appreciation in every phase.

At the time, this photo became a prized possession, something I was deeply proud of. Now, as a high school senior on the cusp of graduation, I see it in a new light. It is no longer just a landscape but a reflection of my own journey. Like the creek in transition, I, too, am in a season of change—moving from the familiarity of high school into the unknown of higher education. This image reminds me that even when life lacks the excitement of full bloom, the quiet, reflective moments are just as vital. They prepare me for the warmth and brightness of the future ahead.

A Curious Branch by Ian Osmon

This image is of an Arkansas native, the Rough Greensnake, Opheodrys aestivus, in situ. This species is diurnal and was woken up by my flash while I was trying to photgraph it. Because the snake was so small in frame, I used a very low aperture and focused on the snakes head effectively blurring the surroundings and drawing attention to the its eyes. This gives the snake a curious look to it. The image reminds me to always be curious and attentive to what goes on around me in my life, just as the snake is in its environment.

No Risk, No Reward by Isabel Gomez

I wanted to show the risks that animals take to survive and how they reside with our presence. With this photo you are able to see what great lengths squirrels go to in order to survive.

Sana Sana Colita De Rana by Kate Ruan

February 22nd, 2024, was the day I got discharged from a week-long stay at a behavioral hospital, with this photography being taken that very day. It marked a new beginning allowing this photograph to be appropriately named after the Latin phrase “Sana Sana Colita De Rana Si No Sanas Hoy, Sanarás Mañana. It means “heal heal like the tail of a frog, If you don’t heal today, you will heal tomorrow” and it is used as a form of comfort. Seeing this frog after being at the hospital felt like a symbol of hope.
With the rays of light allowing for little creators to come out from the long winter to sunbathe. The frogs began to croak a symphony that would make any wise man believe that it had come from a world class orchestra. This start to a new season was accompanied by gusts of wind that brought refreshment from the harsh sunlight. Mother nature embraced me again and brought relief to my homesickness. I could finally take a step back from this war and breath.
My hope is that this can be a reminder to all that stepping back from the hassle of life isn’t detrimental to your identity. If I didn’t step back that day, I wouldn’t have seen how beautiful the small things were. If we don’t step back and look around, we will never get to experience the true wonders of life that are right in front of us.
I want to encourage you to step back, breathe, and explore what makes this world so unique.

Natures Tranquility by Kay Richardson

Capturing this photo made me think of the word “Tranquility”. Tranquility meaning state of peace and calm. like a feeling of stillness and serenity, free from any disturbances or stress.

The gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze,
the soft colors of the sunset,
the calm surface of the mowed corn field
the distant chirping of birds, and
the way light filters through the trees. Being able to take all of this in just by being outside shows the beautiful , unique parts of nature itself. Keeping this short and simple overall the image it self shows the peaceful escape nature actually is in reality.

Why the long sky by Madelyn Jesse

This evokes an emotion of loneliness and isolation due to the vast wilderness stretching endlessly in each direction. The barren landscape seems to swallow that sense of connection we take advantage of in every day life. This feeling is furthered by the fact that the sun is setting, signaling the end of the day and saying goodbye to that last bit of light. As it grows later the shadows deepen leading to a fuller sense of alone.

Fading Memories by Madison Champlin

I didn’t go out and take this picture with an idea or an inspiration. I just wanted to have an excuse to hike in the woods with my dad and practice taking photos. We went to hike at the end of the day with a fading amount of light. As I came upon the top of the trail I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the city and the woods beyond it. I was far enough away from traffic to where it seemed as if the world was put on mute and only the wind and the rustling of leaves could be heard.

As I looked at the tops of the trees that were losing leaves and the sun that continued to set it reminded me of how limited time we have to spend and even just looking at a sunset truly is a fleeting moment.

In my photo I wanted to capture the beauty of the bright skyline overlooking the darkened trees to convey a sense of calmness and peacefulness looking at the sunset and a contrasting feeling of transitioning onto a new time, a sense of being in the moment with the darker trees.

I hope that others that see my photo will feel present at the moment and imagine the most beautiful sunset that they have ever seen and remember how they felt in that time even if it was just a fleeting moment as simple as being at a Walmart or driving with a friend and observing the end of a day together.

Serenity in the Highlands by Marcus Mullins

Serenity in the Highlands, the name doesn’t even begin to bear the truly serenading experience gained from capturing the beautiful artwork created by Mother Nature. While I stood on the edge of the cliff in Petit Jean, Arkansas, on February 25, 2025, I couldn't help but feel at peace. I aimed to truly capture the details that most would overlook in a picture such as this, the weathered rock beneath my feet that had been textured by thousands of years of wind, rain, and time itself. Each crack in the rock having a story of its own. The lush contrast between the verdant trees to the umber trees spread throughout the roaring hills with a sort of dance between light and dark, truly expressing the beauty of what was, to what is. The distant horizon stretching endlessly, blending seamlessly into the sky, reminding whoever takes the time out of their day to appreciate what is all around us, that the world is vast with infinite possibilities that lie ahead. As I stood there, surrounded by nature's raw beauty and the music of the wind, I couldn't help but feel a deep connection to something much greater than myself, an unspoken, yet beautiful, harmony between earth and soul.

The Endless Horizon by Owen Millsap

This photograph, taken in Jasper, Arkansas, during a car rally with my dad, captures more than just a breathtaking view—it embodies a moment of connection, nostalgia, and tranquility. As the sun set over the rolling hills, I felt the weight of time slow, appreciating the beauty of both the landscape and the memories we were creating. The vastness of the horizon mirrors the journey we share—open, uncertain, yet full of promise. This image holds deep emotional significance for me, representing the peaceful yet fleeting nature of time spent with loved ones, a moment I will always cherish. This was the first trip I took with my dad, we spent around two months working on the car. She is a 1987 Porsche 944s, and many late nights and early mornings were spent working on Linda. One of my dad's best friends invited us to this car rally through the Ozarks with his dad. This was his last father-son trip that he would get to take. From this experience, I learned the importance of cherishing every moment you get with your father, even the small ones, like an amazing valley overlook in Jasper, Arkansas. I only hope I get to do something half as cool as this with my future kids. I find myself very fortunate to have the gift of living in a state as beautiful as Arkansas during my teenage years. I would also like to dedicate this photo to the owners of Overcrest Rally because I would not have had this experience if not for them.

Yellow Haze by Piper Gilchrist

I have always loved taking photos of birds as they are all unique and special in their own way. When I saw this Common Grackle in a little wooded area, I got excited and took a photo of him. I wanted to make this photo graph have a unique and colorful style that can make someone happy. When I looked back down at my camera to see how it came out, I felt pride and confidence, just like how this grackle looked. These emotions are held close to me as it reminds me that I have a talent for photography and to not give up on it.

Silent Resilience by Riley Crow

This photograph captures the silent strength and resilience of a horse bearing the cold, which is a reflection of the hardships animals face in Arkansas. The fresh snowflakes dusting its body are symbolic of the durability she must have for the ever-changing weather of the Natural State, where the land itself is a test of endurance and perseverance.

Arkansas, with its Ozark Mountains and rolling hills, various lakes, lush greenery, and National River, is a place of timeless and immense beauty, yet wildlife still face significant struggles throughout the year.

In this image, Venus is the symbol of endurance and perseverance. Her eyes, calm and unspoken, speak to the silent determination she possesses. This piece is not only about the hardships, but showcases the enduring spirit of the animals of Arkansas. She is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, life continues to move onward, day-by-day and season-by-season. My inspiration for this photograph is capturing all the beauty Arkansas has to offer from my even own backyard.

Between Earth and Sky by Sebastian Robards

As I stood at the edge of the overlook, the world came to a standstill. Sunlight poured across the earth in golden radiance as the sun rose, and a misty sea coursed through the valleys, blurring the lines between earth and heaven. I was taken at that moment by the still force of nature and its ability to transform the mundane into the dreamlike and the deep. The bare, gnarled trees in the foreground stood in stark relief against the soft, otherworldly mist below, making the landscape both earthly and boundless. It was as if I had entered a dream, a dream in which time was slowed and the world was a place of quiet and reflection. This photograph was my attempt at capturing in that moment: awe, peace, and a deep sense of connection with something bigger than myself. The dance between light and dark, the gnarled textures of the trees against the soft mist, all were speaking to the duality that was intimate and global. They were reminding me that beauty in nature is not just in the big things, but in the quiet, ephemeral things that compel us to slow down, inhale, and feel. To me, this is more than a photograph, it is a reflection of our place in the world. It is a testament to the healing, inspiring beauty of nature in equal proportion. With this photograph, I want to convey that sense of connection, invite others to feel that sense of peace and awe. It is a reminder that we belong to something more than our own individual selves, something beautiful, something big, a world that speaks softly in a quiet, soothing tone if we pause and listen.

Nature is Golden by Thomas Aldridge II

I've always had a love for photography and nature in general, particularly in capturing beautiful areas that often go unnoticed. In this photo, I was working with a borrowed Canon EOS RP camera from my Digital Media class, trying to find just that, which I believe I did – a beautiful golden hour sunset with the sun's rays blooming and stretching out on the land. The lush green trees and red pop of the berries blend perfectly into the warm golden glow of the hour, with an equally golden field remaining sharp and detailed in the distance. The moment I saw this scene, though I never set out for a golden hour moment, I knew it was once-in-a-lifetime, and upon successful capture, I spent the next several minutes simply sitting in the field, watching the breeze brush against the bushes and trees as the sun began to set. Truly, it was a beautiful moment, one I wish to better learn to recapture with the proper equipment and experience in the future.

Between The Trees by Viktoria Buckman

The emotional significance behind this photograph is about being able to find beauty in unexpected places. I captured this lilypad pond between bushes and bland trees to showcase that between ordinary scenes, there’s uniqueness and beauty. The shadow created by one of the trees shows the familiarity of hiding one’s uniqueness behind commonality, In comparison, the area of the pond being highlighted by natural lighting from the sun shows lilypads and lilypad flowers blooming. This part is the unique aspect of the pond being in the spotlight. By using contrast lighting, I was able to show that in society, one tries to hide their uniqueness behind common factors to fit in. But when expressed, something beautiful is shown. This holds a connection to me because I believe that in everyone, there is a unique aspect that makes them different from the rest. This has been shown in my personal life when trying to fit in with society by hiding the unique parts of me through hiding behind commonality in society, but when I learned to express myself, I was able to bloom.