2026 Women's Photography Circle Photo Contest Winners
There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing the world through someone else’s eyes.
Each year, this collection reminds us that photography isn’t just about technical skill—it’s about perspective, courage, and the willingness to pause long enough to truly see. From quiet, intimate moments to bold, story-driven frames, these images reflect not only talent, but heart.
This year’s winners stood out for their ability to create something that lingers—images that make you feel, wonder, and look a little closer. We are so proud to showcase their work and celebrate the voices behind the lens.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who entered. Your participation not only supports and uplifts fellow female photographers, but also helps us continue building meaningful partnerships with our generous sponsors who make opportunities like this possible.
First Place Landscapes: Kate Kennedy
Moonscape Milkway - "This image was taken in the Utah Badlands in March 2026, at Moonscape Overlook."
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Second Place Landscapes: Pam Whisenhunt
Shadows of Dawn - "The first hints of morning slip across the ice, catching a winter shoreline in a soft, moody glow before the sun breaks."
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Third Place Landscapes: Amy Osness
Rooted in Light - "After a long, muddy drive through a cold grey rainstorm, we arrived at this overlook just as the day was slipping away. For hours, the landscape had been hidden beneath low clouds and sheets of rain, and it seemed unlikely the storm would give us anything more than a wet hike and a view of fog. But as sunset approached, the clouds began to break, and the entire canyon transformed. Warm light spilled across the cliffs, a rainbow emerged from the storm, and for a few brief moments the desert glowed with color and life. This image captures that fleeting reward—the kind of moment that can’t be planned, only hoped for. The twisted juniper, shaped by years of wind and weather, stood like a witness to the storm’s passing, framing a scene that felt both wild and serene. For me, this photograph is about patience, persistence, and the unexpected beauty that often comes just after the hardest part of the journey."
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First Place Wildlife: Keri Jones
Rough & Tumble - "Out on the open tundra, two cubs broke the stillness with a burst of energy. What started as playful nudges quickly turned into a full wrestling match, their movements clumsy but full of intent. They lunged and pushed, rolling together in a tangle of fur and oversized paws. In one fleeting moment, they tumbled mid-roll, caught between balance and chaos, embodying both innocence and instinct."
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Second Place Wildlife: Carmody Baker
Morning Light - "This rhino came charging, then stopped, bathed in beautiful light."
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Third Place Wildlife: Noriko Buckles
Stretching My Wings - "On a recent trip to Columbia I encountered many hummingbirds. They are small, fast and very territorial. It was very challenging to photograph them, but I was lucky to capture this Rufus Hummingbird just at it was ready to take off.
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First Place Flora & Macro: Ginnie Lodge
The Universe in His Eyes - "Praying Mantis are incredibly calm and curious. I spent a lot of time sitting in the dirt with this one, as it moved about in my flower bed. It was not afraid of my camera with macro lens and flash/diffuser, but often turned to look at me."
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Second Place Flora & Macro: Cari Schawo
Small Things - "Children's hands holding snails."
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Third Place Flora & Macro: Traci Sowersby
Portal to Tulips - "Raindrop reflection of tulips."
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First Place Portraits: Jayashri Vemuri
Golden Silence - "A figure draped in a sweeping metallic gold gown stands poised between towering mirrored steel walls, their bare back and downward gaze evoking quiet introspection. The cascading fabric pools dramatically across the granite pathway, its luminous warmth in striking contrast to the cool, reflective architecture that flanks the scene on either side. Converging walls draw the eye upward toward an overcast sky, lending the composition a sense of infinite depth and grandeur. A solitary figure, bathed in gold against a world of silver and grey — a study in contrast, stillness, and silent strength.
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Second Place Portraits: Brynn Bromley
Suits - "Sci-fi meets skin cancer self-portrait concept. I was dealing with my post-surgery, permanent change to my body, and I imagined if I was an alien or android how I would just switch out the damaged parts for spares. This sci-fi concept allowed me to step back from my emotions and view the situation through a new lens. Creative self-portraits have helped me process so many feelings. Whatever happens physically and/or emotionally, I ask myself, how would I visually represent this challenge in my life?
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Third Place Portraits: Rebecca Snyder
Sleep in Softness - "A quiet nap turned into a moment cherished in time. This portrait was elevated by photographing baby through lace draped around the lens and soft light from a flash to fill his face, transforming the couch into beauty."
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