Get your cameras ready! Submissions for the 2026 Dr. Kim Ingold 4-H Photography Contest are now open!

Named in memory of the late Dr. Kim Ingold, the NC 4-H Photography Contest encourages youth and adult photographers from across North Carolina to capture meaningful moments, explore creative techniques and continue developing their photography skills through 4-H.

This annual competition celebrates creativity and visual storytelling while giving participants the opportunity to showcase their work at the state level. Winning entries will be highlighted during National 4-H Week and displayed alongside the NC 4-H Exhibit at the N.C. State Fair in October.

Participation Categories

The contest is open to 4-H youth (and adults) approved and enrolled in 4-H Online in the following divisions:

• Cloverbud (ages 5–7, non-competitive)
• Junior (ages 8–13)
• Senior (ages 14–18)
• Adult (ages 19+)

Subject Categories

Youth participants may enter photographs in the following categories:

• 4-H in Action
• Nature’s Beauty
• Animals
• Black and White

The adult division features the 4-H in Action category only.

All entries must be submitted by August 14, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Participants are encouraged to review the contest rules, category requirements, judging information and submission guidelines before entering.

Submitted photographs must have been captured by the participant during the contest year (September 2025 – August 2026).

Those interested in participating can also contact their local 4-H agent for questions about eligibility, enrollment and contest participation.

Questions may also be directed to Lori McBryde, who serves as the statewide contact for the contest.

Whether capturing moments from 4-H activities, landscapes, wildlife or creative black and white photography, the contest provides an opportunity for participants to share their perspective and continue building photography skills through hands-on learning and creative expression.