2024 Photo Contest

31 CATEGORIES • MULTIPLE AWARDS

Over $8,000 in Prizes Available

Scroll Down To View Categories

You are able to enter up to five (5) photos per entry, provided that none of them were entered in a previous year’s edition of the contest. Please note that if you enter a photo in one category, it may not be entered in another – you can only enter it once. All photos entered will be considered for the Best Overall and Fan Favorite prize. For a complete list of FAQ’s, click here. For complete photo contest rules and criteria, click here.

CONTEST NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES
Closes on October 18, 2024

Grand Prize For Best Overall Photo:

Lindale Grand Getaway

• Slumber in style with a night in the Miranda Lambert Suite at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott.
• Enjoy two complimentary wine tastings at Red 55 Winery (with souvenir glasses).
• Toast with a bottle of Red 55 wine autographed by Miranda Lambert.
• Dine out with a $100 gift card from LaCascio’s Scratch Italian restaurant.
• $300 as best photo winner.
• Sweet finale? A candy bowl from the historic Lindale Candy Company.

Some of Lindale’s finest, wrapped in one unforgettable escape! The grand prize is being sponsored by Visit Lindale.

Other Prizes available:

• $250 Best Photo in Each Category
• $100 Fan Favorite Photo

In addition, all five category finalists as selected by the judges will receive a Tex Heritage prize package.

Entering the contest is FREE, but the Texas Heritage Trails participating would greatly appreciate your support. As 501(c)(3) charity organizations, donations are always welcome and go to support our efforts at promoting Texas tourism. If you would like to support our cause, please click here for a number of ways in which you can donate.

Here Are The Categories We Are Accepting Entries For:

Everything East Texas

Share your photos that capture the heart of East Texas. Maybe it’s your family’s land, your favorite fishing spot or the kids experiencing their hometown past times. Share the places or moments in time that represent our neck of the woods. This category includes the following counties: Angelina, Anderson, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Gregg, Franklin, Hardin, Harrison, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Marion, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk, Red River, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Walker, and Wood.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

The Beauty of Conroe

Conroe has it all. The beauty of the lake, parks, a quaint downtown, and a growing community. Share with us what Conroe and the surrounding area means to you.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Friends and Fun in Nacogdoches

Celebrate everyday life in historic Nacogdoches! Take photos that represent things to do, and the fun you can have in the oldest town in Texas. From college students to business owners, we welcome a variety of different views of Nacogdoches and the surrounding area.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

In And Around Kilgore

Kilgore, AKA “The city of stars” would like you to submit your photos of the attractions, museums, festivals, places, people, and scenes that can only be experienced in Kilgore and the surrounding area.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Palestine's Unique Life

Share your photos of all the unique things to do in Palestine…like riding the vintage trains at the Palestine Depot, enjoying the Fairy Garden trail, visiting downtown, or experiencing the nature that surrounds Palestine.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Magic of Fall/Winter in East Texas

Share your photos that capture the beauty of ETX in the Fall/Winter The changing leaves and occasional snowfall turn East Texas into a beautiful backdrop for activity in cooler weather. Share what you do when the cooler weather comes around. This category includes the following counties: Angelina, Anderson, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Gregg, Franklin, Hardin, Harrison, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Marion, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk, Red River, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Walker, and Wood.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Historic Sites of East Texas

East Texas is home to many historic sites including those designated by the Texas Historical Commission. Submit photos from your visit and be a part of sharing our rich history from the past. This category includes the following counties: Angelina, Anderson, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Gregg, Franklin, Hardin, Harrison, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Marion, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk, Red River, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Walker, and Wood.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Spotlight on Lindale

Lindale, the hometown of Miranda Lambert, is growing – while maintaining its small town charm. Show us your photos of Lindale and the surrounding area.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Tyler Attractions

Tyler, Texas is growing and flourishing right before our eyes. Take photos of the beautiful life in Tyler, Texas as you see it. This might be eating at a restaurant, enjoying live entertainment, public art displays, and more! Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

The Great Outdoors of East Texas

East Texas has some of the most beautiful state parks, lakes and state forests in all of Texas. We want to see how you view these amazing areas – the lakes, camping, fishing, outdoor recreation, and the wildlife…to name a few. This category includes the following counties: Angelina, Anderson, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Gregg, Franklin, Hardin, Harrison, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Marion, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk, Red River, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Walker, and Wood.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Life In The Hill Country

The hill country region of Texas is known for its rolling hills, scenic landscapes, and diverse natural beauty. We want to see how you view these amazing areas – the charming small towns, wineries, and state parks.…to name a few. This category includes the following counties: Atascosa • Bandera • Bexar • Blanco • Burnet • Comal • Frio • Gillespie • Hays • Kendall • Kerr • Lampasas • Llano • Medina • Real • Travis • Uvalde • Williamson • Zavala

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Kerrville Culture, Culinary & Creativity

Art, culture and innovation drive the Kerrville we know and love. Visitors of all ages can craft a diverse and unique experience with every visit. Share with us what inspires you when you’re in Kerrville, Texas!

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

The Natural Beauty of Boerne

Showcase the natural beauty of Boerne, Texas! Renowned for its natural beauty, the area is surrounded by rolling hills, clear creeks, and abundant greenery, rugged limestone terrain, and woodlands. 

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Friends & Fun in Boerne

Boerne is celebrated for its local cafes, eateries, breweries, wineries, and its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere filled with outdoor and cultural activities. We’re looking for photos that capture the essence of this vibrant town, whether it’s tasty food shots (with or without people), the unique environments of these establishments or scenes from festivals, farmers markets, and community events that bring friends together. Show us the fun and everyday life you experience in Boerne!

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

San Marcos Through Your Lens

Capture the beauty, adventure, and vibrant spirit of San Marcos! Whether it’s the scenic landscapes, local events, or hidden gems, we want to see the city through your lens. Show us what makes San Marcos special to you and enter your best photos for a chance to share your unique perspective.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Fun in Bandera

Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” Bandera offers a range of Western-themed activities, from horseback riding on scenic trails to watching a live rodeo. Share how you are embracing the town’s rich cowboy heritage and enjoying the rugged beauty of the area.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Magic of Fall/Winter in the Hill Country

Share your photos that capture the beauty of the Hill Country in the Fall/Winter. The rolling hills are dotted with vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold as the leaves of oak and maple trees change color, providing stunning views, especially along scenic hill country drives. Share what you do when the cooler weather comes around. This category includes the following counties: Atascosa • Bandera • Bexar • Blanco • Burnet • Comal • Frio • Gillespie • Hays • Kendall • Kerr • Lampasas • Llano • Medina • Real • Travis • Uvalde • Williamson • Zavala

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Best of Texas Independence Trail Region

Show off your best photos of this 28-southeast Texas county area from the upper Texas coast of Galveston down to Port O’Connor, to Refugio and Goliad, to San Antonio and up to Bastrop and Brenham and Washington on the Brazos to just east of Houston in Liberty & Chambers counties. Show us your favorite historic site or place, gorgeous downtown, beach, wildflowers, food or festival! We want to see it all! This is your chance to show us what you love about this glorious part of the Lone Star State! This category includes the following counties: Austin • Bastrop • Bee • Bexar • Brazoria • Caldwell • Calhoun • Chambers • Colorado • DeWitt • Fayette • Fort Bend • Galveston • Goliad • Gonzales • Guadalupe • Harris • Jackson • Karnes • Lavaca • Liberty • Matagorda • Refugio • Victoria • Waller • Washington • Wharton • Wilson

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Multi-Cultural Heritage in Victoria

Capture the unique vibe of Victoria, Texas! Showcase the rich history of the downtown architecture, the thriving arts scene at the museums and art walks, the cultural music festivals, and dining experiences at our locally owned eateries.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Picture Brazosport

Share your photos showcasing the beaches, fishing, birding, unique attractions, museums, events, restaurants, and scenic spots that make Clute, Freeport, Lake Jackson, and Surfside Beach unforgettable. Feel free to include people in your shots, too! Let your images show us why Brazosport is the ultimate getaway!

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Foodie Finds in Pearland

Show off your culinary adventures in Pearland, Texas! Capture the mouthwatering dishes, vibrant dining atmospheres, and hidden gems that make Pearland a foodie’s paradise. From local eateries to cozy coffee shops, share your favorite spots and the delicious meals you’ve enjoyed.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Postcards from Pearland

Share your unique perspective on Pearland, Texas’s destinations! From the iconic Pear-Scape Trail to Pearland’s memorable events, share your favorite Pearland moments through your own lens.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Beyond the Backyard: Fun Things To Do Outdoors in Baytown

Capture your outdoor adventures in Baytown, Texas. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, biking, or exploring nature, show us the fun activities that take you beyond the backyard.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Sweat & Success: Sports Moments in Baytown

Capture the grit and glory of Baytown sports. From big wins to hard-fought efforts, show off the sweat, passion, and success that make Baytown’s old and young athletes’ shine.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Play in Bastrop County

With almost 900 square miles and lots of open roads within our County limits, there’s plenty to do, eat and places to stay. Two state parks, the Colorado River, Lake Bastrop, three historic downtowns, family friendly activities, outdoor adventures, delicious dining, relaxing stays, and so much more in this treasure trove of a County. How do you play?

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Magic of Fall/Winter in the Lakes Trail

Share your photos that capture the beauty of the Lakes Trail in the Fall/Winter. Known for their lakes, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage, share what you do when the cooler weather comes around. This category includes the following counties: Bosque • Collin • Cooke • Dallas • Denton • Ellis • Fannin • Grayson • Hamilton • Hill • Hood • Hunt • Johnson • Kaufman • Montague • Navarro • Parker • Rockwall • Somervell • Tarrant • Wise Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Hello Spring/Summer in the Lakes Trail

Share your photos that capture the beauty of the Lakes Trail in the Spring/Summer. Maybe it’s hanging out downtown, your favorite fishing spot or experiencing a ballgame. Share the places or moments in time that represent your hometown. This category includes the following counties: Bosque • Collin • Cooke • Dallas • Denton • Ellis • Fannin • Grayson • Hamilton • Hill • Hood • Hunt • Johnson • Kaufman • Montague • Navarro • Parker • Rockwall • Somervell • Tarrant • Wise Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Arlington – A World of Wonderful

Arlington has seen a lot of growth across the city. But Arlington is still the biggest small town in Texas with a strong local community. We want your help capturing what there is to see and do in Arlington. From games and concerts at our world class stadiums to authentic international cuisine to beautiful parks, outdoor art, and murals, show us your World of Wonderful, here in Arlington, Texas.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Gotta Go To Glen Rose

Glen Rose, Texas – a haven where the allure of natural beauty intertwines with the warmth of small-town hospitality. Whether you’re showcasing the footsteps of dinosaurs in the ancient riverbeds of Dinosaur Valley State Park, featuring the wildlife safari at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, or enjoying our historic downtown square, show us what makes Glen Rose so special.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Family & Fun in Historic Downtown Terrell

Share your photos of individuals and families visiting, shopping, dining and participating in events in Historic Downtown Terrell.

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Historic Sites of Central/SouthEast Texas

The Hill Country and Independence Regions of Texas are home to many historic sites, including those designated by the Texas Historical Commission. Submit photos from your visit and be a part of sharing our rich history from the past. This category includes the following counties: Atascosa • Bandera • Bexar • Blanco • Burnet • Comal • Frio • Gillespie • Hays • Kendall • Kerr • Lampasas • Llano • Medina • Real • Travis • Uvalde • Williamson • Zavala • Austin • Bastrop • Bee • Bexar • Brazoria • Caldwell • Calhoun • Chambers • Colorado • DeWitt • Fayette • Fort Bend • Galveston • Goliad • Gonzales • Guadalupe • Harris • Jackson • Karnes • Lavaca • Liberty • Matagorda • Refugio • Victoria • Waller • Washington • Wharton • Wilson

Winner in this category will receive $250.

This category is sponsored by:

Photo Contest FAQ's

Photos fitting into any of the contest categories will be eligible provided that they were taken in a county that encompass the Texas Forest Trail Region, Texas Hill County Region, Texas Lakes Trail and the Texas Independence Trail Region in Texas. 

Photos from any year are eligible for entry provided that they have not been entered in an earlier year’s edition of the contest. If you have good photos taken in the past, you are urged to enter them.
The contest is restricted to digital photographs, but you may convert your non-digital photos to a digital format to make them eligible for entry.

Yes, any photographer is eligible to enter the contest as long as the photo was taken in  Texas.

Yes, all photographers are welcomed and encouraged to enter, including winners of previous contests.
We can’t promise you this, but every attempt will be made to give credit when reasonably possible.

A panel of Texans will evaluate each entry for creativity, wow factor, and theme related composure.

You will be able to enter up to five (5) photos per category, provided that none of them were entered in a previous year’s edition of the contest. That means you can enter a total of 60 photos – so get that camera out!

This year, we will be running our contest from September 16, 2024 through October 18, 2024.

Photos must be submitted in .jpg format. Large format photos (original size) are requested as they provide better clarity and resolution of the photo.

Any manipulation of images must be limited to cropping and minor adjustments of color and contrast. Any other manipulation will make the photo ineligible for entry.
You must be the original owner of the copyright for your photo to be eligible for entry, and you will retain this copyright. By submitting an entry, you will give permission for royalty-free use of your entered photograph for publicity, display, and fund-raising.

The winners will be announced once the contest closes. Check back on texheritage.com for updates on the contest.

Please feel free to contact us via our contact page by clicking here
For complete photo contest rules and criteria, click here