By Andi Anderson
The 2023 INFB Photo Contest, hosted by the Indiana Farm Bureau, has concluded with the unveiling of its talented winners. This inaugural contest provided a unique opportunity for INFB members aged 18 and above to share their perspectives on agriculture and rural life in Indiana through the medium of photography.
The competition saw a remarkable collection of over 300 entries submitted during the contest period, which ran from August 1 to September 30, 2023. A panel of independent judges meticulously evaluated the photographs based on several criteria, including the focus on agriculture or rural life, image sharpness, overall image quality, subject matter, composition, technical excellence, visual impact, and creativity.
The winners of the 2023 INFB Photo Contest are as follows:
First Place: Marie Kohlhagen, Jasper County ($250 prize) Second Place: April Lamb, Kosciusko County ($150 prize) Third Place: Linsie Middlesworth, Grant County ($100 prize)
Marie Kohlhagen, the first-place winner, captured a heartwarming moment on her family's Rensselaer farm in Jasper County. Her photograph featured her two youngest children gazing out at the wheat harvest on the Fourth of July. As a photographer with her own business, MK Photography and Design, Kohlhagen was elated to participate in the inaugural INFB Photo Contest and regarded it as an opportunity to combine her passion for photography with advocating for the future of agriculture.
April Lamb, the second-place winner, depicted a young girl's exploration of a pumpkin patch, while Linsie Middlesworth, the third-place winner, portrayed a young girl feeding cows. These photographs collectively showcased the rich tapestry of agriculture in Indiana, spotlighting row crops, specialty crops, and livestock sectors. The images also celebrated the younger generation's active involvement in daily farm activities, signifying the future of agriculture.
In addition to the monetary prizes awarded to the winners, the three winning photographs will be prominently displayed at the 2023 INFB State Convention, taking place from Thursday to Saturday, December 14-16, at the Grand Wayne Convention Center in Fort Wayne.
For a visual journey through the winning photographs and a glimpse of the vibrant world of agriculture and rural life in Indiana, visit www.infb.org/PhotoContest2023.
Photo Credit: photos-gettyimages-karandaev
Categories: Indiana, Business, Crops, Livestock