Image: Sea Scallops at Sunrise by Diane Suner

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast and presenting sponsor Elizabeth Moore announce the People’s Choice winners for their second annual Summer Photo Contest exhibit. Photographers of all ages and experience levels were invited to submit their original work showcasing the beauty of natural Florida. Jury members included presenting sponsor, Elizabeth Moore; noted photographer, Mary Lundeberg; noted photographer, Grant Jeffries; and fine art painter, Mary Louise O'Connell.

Over 300 entries were received for consideration. Following jury selection, community members were invited to vote for their favorites by liking/loving the images in the Conservation Foundation Summer Photo Contest Facebook gallery. Voting took place June 21 through August 21 and the most liked/loved image in each category received the honor of being recognized as People’s Choice. The photo with the most likes/loves overall received distinct recognition as People’s Choice Best in Show. With almost 1,000 likes on Facebook, the overwhelming winner was Diane Suner’s photograph, Sea Scallops at Sunrise.

“Photography is a uniquely personal way to connect with nature,” says Conservation Foundation President Christine P. Johnson. “It’s always a treat to look at the photos submitted and see how differently people view and experience our natural world. We congratulate this year’s winners and look forward to the continued growth of our annual virtual event.”

The full gallery can be viewed at conservationfoundation.com/summerphoto or by visiting Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast on Facebook. 

Image: Sea Scallops at Sunrise by Diane Suner