2026 ECVA Photo Contest

Elko Scenery & Landscape

Welcome to the Elko’s Landscapes Photo Contest! We invite you to capture the rugged, breathtaking, and unique beauty of Elko and the surrounding Northeastern Nevada region. From the majestic peaks of the Ruby Mountains to the vast, open expanses of the high desert, this contest is a celebration of the diverse and stunning scenery that defines our home.

We’re looking for images that tell a story about Elko’s natural world. Whether it’s the towering cliffs of Lamoille Canyon, the serene waters of a hidden alpine lake, a sweeping view of the sagebrush plains, or a quiet moment along the Humboldt River, show us what makes our landscape so special. We encourage you to explore beyond the well-known spots and find a unique perspective that highlights the area’s wild and untamed spirit.

What to capture:

• Dramatic Landscapes: Wide, sweeping vistas that capture the grandeur of the Ruby Mountains, the East Humboldt Range, or the vast desert.

• Intimate Scenery: Focus on the smaller details that often go unnoticed—the texture of a rock formation, the vibrant color of a wildflower, or the intricate patterns in a dried lakebed.

• Seasonal Beauty: From a snow-covered winter scene to the vibrant colors of a desert spring or the golden light of an autumn evening, show us how the seasons transform our landscape.

• Nature in Action: Photos of wildlife in their natural habitat or natural events like a dramatic storm or a stunning sunrise.

• Historical and Natural Fusion: Capture images that blend Elko’s rich history with its natural setting, such as the old Pioneer Trail winding through a canyon or the weathered wood of a historic ranch cabin against a rugged mountain backdrop.

This is your chance to showcase your photographic talent and share your love for Elko’s incredible outdoor spaces. We can’t wait to see what you’ve captured!

Elko Life & Culture

Welcome to the Elko Life & Culture Photo Contest! We’re inviting you to capture the vibrant spirit of our community. This contest celebrates the people, traditions, and everyday moments that make Elko a truly unique place to live.

We’re looking for images that tell a story about life in Elko. This can be anything from the rich heritage of our Basque and Native American communities to the excitement of the annual Cowboy Poetry Gathering, or even just a candid moment at a local coffee shop. Your photo should show us what Elko’s culture is all about.

What to Capture:

• Community & Events: Photos that highlight our local gatherings, festivals, or events. Think rodeos, county fairs, or small-town parades.
• Traditions & Heritage: Capture the essence of our cultural roots, whether it’s through traditional food, music, or storytelling.
• Daily Life: Show us the simple, beautiful moments of living in Elko. This could be a photo of a local business owner, kids playing at a park, or a family enjoying a meal together.
• Rural & Urban Contrast: Explore the unique blend of our city life and the surrounding rural lifestyle. Show us how they coexist and define our community.
• People of Elko: The heart of our culture is our people. Submit portraits or candid shots that capture the character and diversity of Elko residents.

This is your chance to showcase your photographic talent and share your love for Elko’s incredible community. We can’t wait to see what you’ve captured!

Elko Wildlife & Nature Up Close

Get ready to capture the wild side of Elko! We’re inviting you to focus your lens on the amazing wildlife and small, beautiful details of our natural world. This is your chance to showcase the stunning creatures and unique flora that make our region so special.

We want to see images that bring us closer to the heart of Elko’s outdoors. Think beyond the big landscapes and focus on the intimate moments and intricate details. Whether it’s a wild horse galloping across the range, a close-up of a vibrant desert wildflower, or the texture of a snake’s skin, show us the raw, beautiful reality of our natural habitat.

What to capture:

• Wildlife Portraits: Capture a candid moment with Elko’s native animals—a majestic hawk perched on a branch, a mule deer grazing at dusk, or a beaver building its dam.
• Macro Nature: Focus on the tiny wonders. We’re looking for close-ups of insects, dew drops on a spiderweb, the detailed patterns on a butterfly’s wing, or the delicate petals of a high desert bloom.
• Nature in Action: Show us a dramatic scene—a fox on the hunt, a bird taking flight, or the power of a rushing stream.
• Historical and Natural Fusion: Capture images that blend Elko’s rich history with its natural setting, such as the old Pioneer Trail winding through a canyon or the weathered wood of a historic ranch cabin against a rugged mountain backdrop.

This is your opportunity to share your passion for the outdoors and reveal the incredible, often-unseen beauty of Elko’s wildlife and nature. We can’t wait to see what you discover!