The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District announced the winners of its 10th annual digital photo contest, and PUNCH Magazine is proud to share this long tradition of showcasing compelling images of nature and capturing the diversity of our open spaces.
This year, photographers of all abilities submitted hundreds of images taken in publicly accessible areas of 24 Midpen open space preserves throughout the South Bay, Peninsula and San Mateo County coast areas. A new youth category added last year encouraged middle and high school students to participate.
“The contest is a fun way for people using everyday technology, like smartphones and digital cameras, to connect with nature close to home,” says General Manager Ana María Ruiz. “We hope people are inspired to explore their public open spaces, perhaps for the first time, and capture those moments of awe and wonder in nature.”
Winners in five categories were chosen by an online public vote on Midpen’s Facebook page. Keep an eye out for next year’s call for entries in March 2020. Learn more about exploring our local preserves and see past contest winners at openspace.org
(OPENING IMAGE)
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
CATEGORY: Plant Life
TITLE: Owl’s Clover in Twilight
PHOTOGRAPHER: Alex Song
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
CATEGORY: Aspiring Photographer
TITLE: Ladybug in Maze
PHOTOGRAPHER: Zoey Lim
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
CATEGORY: Landscape
TITLE: Daybreak on Snow-covered Mount Umunhum
PHOTOGRAPHER: Basim Jaber
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
CATEGORY: People in Open Space
TITLE: Movin’ On
PHOTOGRAPHER: Charles Tu
Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area
CATEGORY: Wildlife
TITLE: White-tailed Kite
PHOTOGRAPHER: Kwon Chiu