2023 Hit Me With Your Best Shot Bird Photography Competition and Exhibition

Gallery by the Lake Inc. announces its fifth annual Gulf Coast Bird Photography Competition to celebrate the joys and benefits of birdwatching, draw attention to the diversity of bird life and habitat across the US, and showcase the work of wildlife photographers in North America. The competition culminates in an exhibition from September 29, 2023 to November 25, 2023 in the Gallery by the Lake Inc. gallery space on the second floor of Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Awards will be announced at the opening reception on September 29. Accepted artwork is required to remain in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition, and accepted images will be showcased in an online gallery at https://www.gallerybythelake.org.

Photography must feature birds as the main subject. Digital enhancement should be limited to color, shadow, cropping, and reasonable use of AI sharpening software. No alteration of original image background is allowed. Photography should follow Audubon Photography guidelines regarding bird safety and dignity. Pictures must have been taken on or after April 1, 2020. Accepted works must be framed and back wired with wire reaching no higher than 3" from the top of the frame. Image size should not exceed 18" x 24" or equivalent with matted and framed work not larger than 24" x 30".

Each photographer may submit 3 entries for a $35 non-refundable entry fee. Up to 5 additional entries may be submitted for $5 each. Two categories are offered: Open Category (all cameras, especially those with interchangeable lenses) and Fixed-lens Camera Category (for photographs taken with less expensive cameras with fixed, non-removable lens). A total of $1,350 in prizes will be awarded: $300 for 1st Place, $100 for 2nd Place, and $75 for 3rd Place in each category, plus $400 for Best in Show. The contest will be judged by BWD Magazine editors Dawn Hewitt and Bruce Wunderlich. Photographers of all ages, amateur and professional, are eligible. Notification of acceptance is July 12, 2023. Accepted works must be received by September 15, 2023. Return of artwork begins November 30, 2023.