PHOTO CONTEST 2024 Mobile Phone Winners

First Place | Drifting Through Nature's Canvas

Rainbow Springs State Park | Waterscapes

Blaire Bisbee

"Captured during my first visit to Rainbow Springs State Park, this photo reflects the awe and serenity I felt in that moment. As a Florida native and avid springs and hiking enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours exploring Florida’s incredible state parks. This particular adventure included a stop at Devil’s Den before heading to Rainbow Springs the next day, where we paddle boarded halfway down the run, immersed in its crystal-clear, frigid waters and vibrant scenery.After our paddle, I visited the gift shop overlooking the springs. As I looked down, I noticed a kayaker perfectly positioned, surrounded by nature’s beauty. I quickly captured the shot, which now symbolizes the peaceful yet adventurous spirit of Florida’s State Parks. To me, this image is a reminder that magic often happens in quiet, unexpected moments. Florida’s State Parks continue to offer that sense of wonder, and I look forward to discovering more!"

Second Place | Sunset

St. Andrews State Park | Landscapes

John Hutcheson

"We consider St. Andrews State Park to be our "home park". For years, we took our kids to the park and enjoyed the beauty of the sand, water, jetties, and pier. The kids loved building sandcastles, splashing in the water, going out onto the pier or climbing over the rocks along the jetty. Last year while we were visiting family over Thanksgiving, I found myself wandering back out to the park. I hoped to capture a beautiful sunset, and I was not disappointed. The clouds parted enough to allow this colorful sunset. I stood there mesmerized until darkness settled over the park. Once again, our "home park" had delivered a wonderful experience."

Third Place | Birds of a Feather

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park | Birds

Martin Strasmore

"When I moved to Florida 10 years ago, I didn’t expect to find so many state parks and conservation areas offering places to go to escape the busyness of daily life, and become surrounded by the beauty and stillness of nature. I find the sunrises and sunsets in these places magical. The combination of golden sky, landscape , water, and our majestic birds are what I attempted to capture in this photograph.  Walking into  Fakahatchee swamp through the knee deep water, surrounded by cypress trees and orchids is a unique experience I love. This was taken from the new boardwalk at sunrise."