Photographers in the valley have several contests available to them this summer through which to showcase what they focus on through the lens.

Across the East Kootenay, Wildsight has launched its “Look Outside” photography initiative that encourages people to share photographs of their experiences in the Purcell region. Participants can either share their photos via social media by tagging them #WildLookOutside on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, or vie for prizes and possible inclusion in the 2015 Look Outside multi-media tour by submitting photos to the Look Outside photo contest.

For the contest, both professional and amateur photogs can upload a maximum of five images per month using the online submission form at wildlookoutside.com. Terms, conditions and step-by-step instructions for both streams of participation are all on the website. Locally, “Best Of” photos will regularly appear in The Valley Echo and The Pioneer so don’t miss this chance to see your work published!

Provincially, if you’re an amateur photographer with an eye for wildlife, don’t miss out on the BC SPCA’s 5th annual Wilidlife-In-Focus photography contest,  which raises funds for the society’s Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre (Wild ARC) on southern Vancouver Island, where more than 2,500 orphaned and injured wild animals are cared for every year. Prizes will be awarded for the top three photos in each of two categories: Wild Settings and Backyard Habitats. The contest is open to all adult (age 14 years and up) backyard and amateur photographers residing in B.C. Learn more about this year’s contest and see winners from past contests at spca.bc.ca/wildlife-in-focus. Digital photos are being accepted until September 30th.

Across the country, Nature Canada, in advance of its upcoming 75th anniversary this September, has also launched a nature photography contest designed to get more Canadians connecting with nature during the summer months. The winners will be featured in Nature Canada’s 75th anniversary photo calendar and monthly e-newsletter, and will be inducted into “Nature Photo Hall of Fame” on the Nature Canada website. Check out the contest at naturecanada.ca/photocontest. Photos are being accepted until September 1st.