The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts proudly announces the 18th Annual Valdosta People’s Choice Photo Contest, inviting photographers of all ages and experience levels to capture the spirit of their community through the 2026 theme: “Hometown USA.” This year’s contest is sponsored by Coleman Talley LLP.

As part of the national America250 observance, this year’s contest encourages participants to reflect on 250 years of the American story by showcasing the people, places, traditions, and moments that define Valdosta, Lowndes County. From everyday life to historic landmarks, photographers are asked to interpret what “home” and “America” mean through their own unique lens.

Artists may submit their entries online at turnercenter.org, May 5 through May 30 and all physical photo entries must be delivered to the Turner Center for the Arts, at 527 N. Patterson Street, by June 5.

“This long-standing community tradition continues expanding its impact in 2026 through its connection to the nationwide celebration of America’s semiquincentennial,” said Executive Director Sementha Mathews, Ph.D. "In this milestone year, residents are invited to celebrate local creativity and the national moment by telling their hometown story—one photograph at a time.”

Winners will be selected through public voting and honored at the Awards Reception. Prizes include Best in Show – $500; 1st Place – $200; 2nd Place – $150; 3rd Place – $100; and Youth Best in Show – $100. All top winners will also receive an award ribbon and an engraved brass plate with the name and title of their artwork. Honorable mentions will also be recognized.

Participants and supporters are invited to the Opening Reception on June 15, which begins the People’s Choice voting period. All entries will be displayed in the Turner Center’s Tillman Gallery, where the public can vote for their favorite photographs. Voting will run from June 15 to July 10 and will culminate with an awards reception on July 20, at 6 p.m. All Valdosta People’s Choice activities are free and open to the public.

For more information, call the Turner Center at 229-247-2787 or visit www.turnercenter.org, where the contest guidelines and requirements are conveniently available.