Young photographers across Lambton County are invited to capture a story through the lens as the 2025 Teen Photo Contest officially opens for submissions.
This year’s theme, Stories in Focus, challenges teens to express emotion, imagination, and humour through photography. The contest is a collaboration between Lambton County Library, the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery (JNAAG), and Lambton College.
Open to residents aged 13 to 18, the contest accepts up to five photo submissions per participant between April 2 and July 6. Winners will be announced on July 19.
Submission categories include Comedy, Drama, and Fantasy. Each category winner will receive a professionally printed and framed version of their photo. One grand prize winner will also receive a $100 prize of their choice — options include gift certificates or a private virtual session with award-winning Canadian photographer Peter Power.
“Previous participants have gone on to study photography and film, and some have even returned as contest jurors,” said Vanitia Campbell, Public Services Coordinator - Youth Programs & Outreach with Lambton County Library. “We look forward to celebrating this year’s exceptional submissions.”
A jury of industry professionals will select 25 entries to be displayed at JNAAG from August 1 to October 4, alongside works by Vancouver-based artist Adad Hannah. His featured piece, Blackwater Ophelia (2013), was created in Lambton County with support from local artists.
The gallery will host an opening reception and awards ceremony for teens on August 1.
“The Teen Photo Contest is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate young artists and support their creativity,” said Rose Canino, Exhibition Support and Education Coordinator at JNAAG. “For teens, having their work featured in a professional gallery can strengthen future scholarship or exhibition applications.”
In the lead-up to the contest, free teen photography workshops will be offered at JNAAG by local photographer Natali Bravo:
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Lighting Techniques – Thursday, April 24, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
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Rules of Composition – Sunday, May 18, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
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Storytelling in Photography (RAAW Program) – July 2 to 4, 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Registration for workshops and full contest details are available at lclibrary.ca/teenphotocontest.
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