PHOTO CONTEST 2025 LANDSCAPES
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Grand Prize Winner | Not Alone
Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park | Landscapes
Shane Carroll
"In 2018, I discovered the hobby of birding—a pursuit that involves exploring nature to locate different bird species, whether native to or migrating through Florida. It was through birding that I first discovered Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, an excellent habitat for woodpeckers and home to the threatened Red-cockaded Woodpecker.
On July 6, 2025, although I was unable to find that particular bird species, the longleaf pine flatwoods made it easy to spot this lone White-tailed Deer. It noticed me long before I noticed it. I stopped in my tracks, took the photo "Not Alone", and simply enjoyed the moment of our shared gaze. There are countless experiences like this to be found throughout the Florida State Park system."
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Runner-Up | Sweet Mornings
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park | Landscapes
Anthony Verdi
"I am an amateur photographer and writer in Gainesville, Florida. I got sober four years ago and it has given me the opportunity to explore new hobbies and places and meet great new people. Having met a new fellow sober man who worked with the parks, we took a morning stroll and came across the serene moment. Serenity is a huge part of my sobriety journey. The trails around Gainesville and the prairie have helped a ton to me as I’ve been able to experience a new side of life."
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People's Choice | Golden Prairie
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park | Landscapes
Rose Cape
"Hi! I’m Rose! My family and I camp at Florida state parks often, and I love capturing different aspects of nature through photography! The state parks are wonderful places to grow my photography skills!
I’m so thankful and excited to have won People’s Choice award in this amazing competition!"
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Finalist | Alley of Green
Blackwater River State Park | Landscapes
Harold Beasley
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Finalist | Gazebo and Gardens
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park | Landscapes
Kristina Gavigan
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Finalist | Tropical Palette
Rainbow Springs State Park | Landscapes
Gabriela Young