May 06, 2025

Annual photography contest launched by Ranchland Trust of Kansas

Posted May 06, 2025 4:39 PM
2024 People winner. Photo by Shelly Wonders
2024 People winner. Photo by Shelly Wonders

Ranchland Trust of Kansas

TOPEKA — The Ranchland Trust of Kansas (RTK) is excited to announce the launch of its 14th annual photography contest, inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to capture the natural beauty and working landscapes of Kansas ranching.

The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers.

Participants are encouraged to submit images that reflect RTK’s mission: "To preserve Kansas’ ranching heritage and open spaces for future generations through the conservation of working landscapes.” Photographers may submit up to five photos that highlight the diverse faces, seasons, and scenes of life on Kansas ranchland.

Entries will be accepted through Thursday, September 4, 2025.

Photos will be judged by a panel that includes representatives from RTK and the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA), along with this year’s special guest judge, acclaimed National Geographic photographer and Kansas native, Jim Richardson. With over 35 years of global experience, Richardson brings a distinguished eye to the competition. He and his wife, Kathy, own Small World Gallery in Lindsborg, where his work is showcased.

Winners will be selected in the following categories:

· Grand Prize
· Landscape
· Livestock
· People
· Wildflowers or Other Wildlife
· Sunrise/Sunset
· Youth (ages 5–17)
· KLA Member
· Fan Favorite (selected via Facebook voting)
· Honorable Mention

L’image, a Wichita-based photography and printing company, returns as the contest sponsor. Each category winner will receive an 8”x10” plaque mount of their winning image. The grand prize winner will choose between an 11”x14” canvas or metal print of their photo.

L’image specializes in ready-to-hang displays including plaque mounting, metal prints, laminating, gallery wraps, and traditional framing, helping photographers showcase their work at its best.

For official contest rules and to submit entries, visit www.ranchlandtrustofkansas.org and navigate to the Photo Contest section under News and Events.