Snap your South Downs happy place
Photographers are being challenged to snap uplifting images that capture the beauty of the natural world in this year’s South Downs National Park photo competition.
The theme for 2021 is ‘Nature Makes Me Happy’ and judges will be looking for photos of the landscape, wildlife, rivers, coastline, woodland, a piece of history, or people enjoying the national park.
Open to amateur or professional photographers, the broad theme could also cover those ‘happy places’ in the South Downs that replenish the soul.
Nick Heasman, countryside and policy manager at the national park and chairman of the judging panel, said: “We’re excited to be able to launch our 2021 photo competition and we’ve got a fantastic theme this year that we think will really resonate with people.
“It’s been a challenging 12 months for so many people, but one thing is for sure – nature brings a smile to the face.
“Those experiences in the natural world, whether it be walking in a beautiful green space, seeing a majestic bird in the sky and going for a jog in the woods, have really inspired people.
“We’ll be looking for images that capture how uplifting the South Downs can be.
“We’ll also be keen to see if people can depict their ‘happy place’ in a spectacular photograph.”
Award-winning photographers Rachael Talibart, Finn Hopson and Carlotta Luke also return to the judging panel.
The top prize will be £250, with a runner-up prize of £150, third prize of £100 and fourth prize of £50.
The youth competition also returns this year for budding young photographers – with categories for those aged ten years and under and 11 to 17.
There will be a prize of a family pass to Marwell Zoo for the ten years and under category, while the prize for 11 to 17 category will be a family pass for a Forest Segway outdoor adventure ride at Go Ape. Entries close on October 31. For more information and to download the entry form visit www. southdowns.gov.uk/care-for/ photocompetition2021/