Try this: LALtoday’s Picture of the Year contest

We’re commemorating 2023 the best way we know how — highlighting local photos through our LALtoday Picture of the Year contest.

A sunset over Lake Bonny in Lakeland, FL with a palm tree silhouette in the foreground

We’re always suckers for a lakeside sunset photo.

Photo by LALtoday

Anyone else still writing 2023 instead of 2024? Last year left a lasting impression + we want to commemorate it the best way we know how — through our inaugural LALtoday Picture of the Year contest.

Between our newsletter and Instagram, you’ve already seen tons of our photos, so we want to see (and share) some of yours — and give a prize for the winning shot. Here’s everything you need to know to participate.

The rules + details:

Photo submissions are open today through Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 11:59 p.m. You are allowed to submit up to five photos, but each must have been taken by you during 2023. To sweeten the pot, anyone who submits a photo will receive a 20% discount to use in our online marketplace, Six & Main.

Photo submissions must include a visual element that directly connects to Lakeland. Examples include a photo from a local sporting event, music performance, festival, or other 2023 happening; a picture taken at a local park; or a shot that highlights a landmark in our city. Photos that do not include a local element will not be considered. Additionally, photos that include nudity or offensive language or visuals will not be accepted.

Finalists will be selected by our team and announced in the newsletter on Tuesday, Jan. 23, and you, our readers, will have the chance to vote for LALtoday’s 2023 Picture of the Year. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, Jan. 30 and will receive a $25 gift card to use at Six & Main.

Want some inspo from some of the best photographers in the world? Check out TIME’s Top 10 Photos of 2023.

Submit here.

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