What makes Albany home to you? Is it the vibrant energy of a downtown street, the quiet history of a century-old building, or the shared laughter at a local festival? The Albany Visitors Association (AVA) is now accepting entries for its 19th Annual Photography Contest, calling on residents and visitors alike to capture the heart of our community through their own lenses.
This contest is more than just a competition—it is an opportunity to have your personal vision of Albany featured in official city marketing, from visitor guides to social media campaigns that inspire travelers to discover our region.
The Opportunity: Tell Albany’s Story
Whether you’re a professional with high-end gear or a hobbyist with a smartphone, your unique “eye” helps define our city. The AVA is seeking fresh, original images taken within Albany and surrounding Linn County during 2024, 2025, or 2026. This is your chance to turn a everyday moment into a celebrated piece of local history.
Official 2026 Contest Categories
To ensure every perspective is represented, the contest features seven specific categories. Which one speaks to your style?
- Downtown: Capture the energy, charm, and unique character of Albany’s historic downtown district.
- Events: Showcase the excitement of our local festivals, parades, and community gatherings.
- Restaurants: Highlight local flavors, from your favorite neighborhood eatery to the bounty of the Albany Farmers’ Market.
- History: Celebrate our rich heritage through shots of historic architecture, landmarks, and heritage sites.
- Locations: Feature our iconic parks, scenic trails, small businesses, and favorite urban haunts.
- People: Tell a story through candid or posed shots of the locals and visitors who make our community shine.
- Youth: A dedicated category for photographers aged 17 and under (free to enter!).
Recognition and Awards
Your creativity could earn you more than just bragging rights. The AVA will award a Champion and Reserve Championfor the overall contest, as well as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in every single category. Plus, the community will have their say through the People’s Choice Award, determined by a public vote.
Your Vision, Simplified
To make sure nothing stands between you and your art, the entry process is now entirely digital. You can upload your work, handle the $2 per photo entry fee, and even send digital model release links to your subjects directly from the portal. It’s a streamlined way to get your work from your camera to the community.
- Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
- Youth Entries: Photographers 17 and under can submit up to 10 photos for free.
- Submit Your Work: albanyvisitors.com/2026-photo-contest
