Bowland life through a lens

This month sees the launch of a special photography competition to celebrate Bowland as a newly named National Landscape during our 60^th anniversary year.

The Forest of Bowland photo competition – Life through a Lens - is a fantastic opportunity for photographers to showcase their skills in capturing the essence of this beautiful area.

With three categories to choose from - people, nature, and place - participants can highlight the distinct beauty of the Forest of Bowland. Whether it's the warmth of community life, intriguing wildlife, or the unique character of local landscapes and places, each category offers a chance to tell a different story through the lens.

Winners can expect exciting prizes and the honour of having their work featured in various publications and online platforms associated with the Forest of Bowland. 'Life through a Lens' is not just a competition but a celebration of the Forest of Bowland, its seasons, and its significance as a National Landscape.

Whether you're a seasoned photographer or an enthusiastic beginner, it’s a chance to celebrate the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and activities in the area.

Tony Lund, Forest of Bowland National Landscape Partnership Manager said, "Our national name change in November 2023 highlighted that the Forest of Bowland is one part of a living patchwork of landscapes where outstanding beauty isn't only found in nature, but in our thriving local communities". 

The competition will run from 1^st August to 30^th September 2024, with shortlisted entrants and winners announced early October.

Tony continued, "This photo competition is an opportunity to celebrate rural life in all its different forms – whether that's the special character of a village, farming life, magnificent landscapes, wonderful wildlife or people enjoying the area – whatever sums up Bowland life for you!   The summer months are a great time to get out with your camera, but if you don't get a chance over the next few weeks, we're also happy to accept photographs taken in previous seasons."

Local businesses – all Forest of Bowland Sustainable Tourism Network members - have been generous in prize donations. These include Hayloft accommodation (with secret garden and hot tub) for one night at Laythams Holiday Lets Retreat; A night's stay for 2 people at Gibbon Bridge Hotel;  A night in a shepherd’s hut (2 people) from Bowland Escapes; A night's stay in glamping pods at Wenningdale Escapes; A meal for 2 at the Traddock, Austwick on the 10 course tasting menu and a bottle of wine; Lunch for 2 people at the Fleece Inn, Dolphinholme; A £50 voucher from Bee Creative Designs; A family day pass from the Bowland Wild Boar Park and a £30 voucher from The Cabin, Barley.

There will also be a People's Choice Award which the public can vote from the shortlist of photos across the categories.  The winner will receive a £200 James' Places gift voucher kindly donated by Ben Scott Contracting Ltd.

Feedback from this year's exhibition featuring the shortlisted entries from 2023 captured the imagination of the public with the following comments: 'Fantastic collection of mesmerising images. Bravo!' and 'Choosing a favourite was nearly impossible!

Competition entries can be uploaded on the Forest of Bowland National Landscape website at:

www.forestofbowland.com/bowland-life-through-lens

Photos must not be submitted to any other competitions or initiatives. Remember to check the specific competition details for submission deadlines and terms and conditions.

Happy snapping!