Capture the Chill: 2024-2025 Winter River Photography Challenge

The National Great Rivers Museum (NGRM), in collaboration with Meeting of the Rivers Foundation (MTRF), is currently accepting submissions for their fourth annual “Winter on the River” Photography Contest.

MTRF seeks artists to illustrate the charm of winter by the river for a community photo competition, which will be showcased at the NGRM starting January 11, 2025. All submitted works will be displayed as part of this exhibition until the conclusion of the winter season.

In a new development from previous years, MTRF is thrilled to introduce a youth category for local individuals aged 13 to 17, in addition to the adult category, at a reduced rate.

Similar to prior years, adult photographers may submit up to three images for an entry fee of $10.00 per photo, while youth participants are now able to enter up to three photos for a lower entry fee of $5.00 per photo. All revenue will support the mission of MTRF in advocating and inspiring lifelong environmental stewardship for the Mississippi River and Great Rivers system.

“This modification from last year is thrilling because it enables us to establish a category distinct from adults, where youth can compete with peers of similar abilities,” stated U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Specialist and contest coordinator Elise Ratcliff. “This will provide young participants with their own arena to excel, rather than competing against seasoned adult photographers. We anticipate a strong turnout in the youth category this year to broaden outreach to a more varied audience.”

The contest welcomes photographers of all abilities. Submissions must be mailed or delivered to the National Great Rivers Museum no later than January 6, 2025. Contest criteria, rules, and registration can be accessed online at

Voting will be conducted by local judges through in-person voting at the National Great Rivers Museum. The public will also be invited to cast their votes. A cash award will be presented in the adult category for Best of Show ($100) and Runner-Up ($50). The youth category will similarly receive a cash prize for Best of Show ($50) and Runner-Up ($25).

“The Winter on the River photography contest provides a fantastic opportunity for the local community to participate in promoting river stewardship,” remarked Ratcliff. “The exhibition not only highlights local talent but also showcases the unique and significant features of the Mississippi River that are vital to this region. National Great Rivers Museum and Meeting of the Rivers Foundation eagerly anticipate facilitating this competition and presenting remarkable local photography at the museum for everyone’s enjoyment.”

For further details, please contact Elise Ratcliff at 618-462-6979 or visit www.mtrf.org.