CLEVELAND, Ohio — Each year, amateur photographers from across Ohio showcase their best pictures of Lake Erie, competing to capture its beauty in a single shot.
After reviewing the submissions, the Ohio Lake Erie Commission announced its winning photographs for its 34th annual contest.
“These photos capture the spirit of Lake Erie in all its forms,” said Joy Mulinex, the executive director of OLEC. “From wildlife encounters to vibrant community life, every year this contest reminds us how deeply people are connected to Lake Erie and how important it is to continue to protect and restore the entire watershed.”
The contest helps to highlight the lake, bringing awareness to its environmental, economic, and cultural importance to the region.
The Judge’s Favorite honor was awarded to “Great Morning with a Great Blue Heron” by Bridget Papagianidis.
Additional winners of the contest include:
Fireworks on Lake Erie – Scott Dommin, Vermilion (taken in Vermilion)
Racing Past Conneaut Lighthouse – Richard McBride, Conneaut (taken at Conneaut Township Park)
Follow the Leader – Dianne Rozak, Marblehead (taken at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area)
Sails, Fireworks, and Headlines – Doug Tayek, Shaker Heights (taken at North Coast Harbor, Cleveland)
A Perfect Day for the Beach – Judy Hanna, Akron (taken in Vermilion)
Up, Up, and Away – Tom Bognar, Sagamore Hills (taken at Edgewater Park, Cleveland)
The Love of Two Sisters – Tricia Pugh, Massillon (taken at Headlands Beach)
Matt the Surfer – Mike Pinzone, North Royalton (taken at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park)
View the winning photos and learn more about the contest here.