The Forest Preserves of Cook County is accepting entries for its 2026 Photo Contest, which celebrates the beauty, wildlife, recreation and changing seasons found throughout the preserves while showcasing the unique perspectives of the people that explore them. The contest opened July 31 and runs through August 16.
Photographers may submit up to five images captured within the Forest Preserves, including Brookfield Zoo Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Garden. Winning photographs will be featured in the Forest Preserves’ 2027 wall calendar, social media channels and other publications. Photos should feature Forest Preserves landscapes, plants, insects, birds or other wildlife, and people enjoying the outdoors.
Fifteen winning images will be selected through a blind judging process, including one calendar cover photo, 12 monthly featured photos, one Brookfield Zoo Chicago photo and one Chicago Botanic Garden photo.
Winners will receive 10 copies of the calendar along with a prize package that includes tickets to Brookfield Zoo Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Garden, a one-night cabin stay, a kayak rental, a Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park experience, a round of golf and more.
For more information, email [email protected], visit fpdcc.com/things-to-do/photography-filming/photo-contest or follow the Forest Preserves’ Facebook page.
