Highland Park has announced the launch of its annual Community Photo Contest, aiming to showcase the community’s character and energy. The contest is open to all residents of Highland Park, Illinois, including both professional and amateur photographers. For 2026, eligibility has been expanded to include students in grades 3-8 as well as high school students.
The City’s Cultural Arts Advisory Group will review submissions and select winners and honorable mentions in each adult category. The broader community will also have an opportunity to vote for a “Community Favorite” among adult entries. Winning photographs are set to be published in a future issue of the Highlander magazine. Winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony scheduled for April 23, 2026, at Highland Park High School.
According to the city announcement: “Annually, the City seeks to illustrate the character of the community and capture the vibrancy of Highland Park through a Community Photo Contest.”
For adults aged 18 or older residing in Highland Park, submissions must feature images taken within city limits during 2025. Categories include Arts & Architecture, Daily Life, Environmental themes, and Food Photography—where dishes from local restaurants must be featured. Each participant can submit up to three photos per category and must provide a signed release and waiver form.
Student participation is open under two categories: Elementary/Middle School (grades 3-8) and High School. Students attending North Shore School District 112 schools or Highland Park High School may participate regardless of residency status; however, only photos taken in Highland Park during 2025 are eligible. Parents must submit release forms on behalf of student participants.
High school students who are residents aged 18 may opt into either the adult or student contest but cannot enter both.
Submissions for all categories are accepted from February 13 through March 15, 2026.
Winners will have their work displayed online for public voting on the “Community Favorite,” with photographers encouraged to share voting links within their networks.
