SAAC calls all photographers to enter the 2026 Viewfinder Competition

The South Arkansas Arts Center (SAAC) is looking photographers of all expertise ranges to enter the 2026 Viewfinder Photography Competition. The submission deadline has been prolonged to Friday, January 30 at 10am with the exhibit opening February 2 and working by way of March 1. From putting landscapes and intimate portraits to summary photographs, on a regular basis moments, and every little thing in between–nearly any topic is welcome. If you’ve got captured a picture you are pleased with, that is your probability to share it.

Cash awards embody $500 for Best of Show, $250 for First Place, $150 for Second Place, $100 for Third Place and $250 Sponsor’s Purchase Award. Sponsored by The El Dorado Insider and The Diamond Agency, all successful entries will even be thought-about for publication within the quarterly journal. Whether you are a seasoned skilled, a weekend hobbyist, or somebody who merely loves documenting the world round you, the Viewfinder is an open-call exhibition designed to have fun creativity in all its kinds.

Photographers might use any sort of digital camera, and prints could also be produced on any medium. Basic corrective modifying, both digital or darkroom, is permitted; nevertheless, graphic manipulation is just not allowed. Submitted works should not have been beforehand exhibited within the Viewfinder Competition. Each photographer might submit as much as two framed pictures to SAAC by January 30, 2026. The entry payment is $10, and SAAC members obtain one free entry.

“As one of the proud sponsors of the annual Viewfinder photo contest, we are excited to help celebrate the talent and creativity of photographers across our community,” mentioned Don Hale of The Diamond Agency. “This year, our $250 Purchase Award will honor the upcoming ‘America 250’ celebration by inviting photographers to capture images within Union County that reflect patriotism and the American spirit. We are honored to support this South Arkansas Arts Center tradition and look forward to seeing how local photographers tell these stories through their lenses.”

While the Viewfinder Competition is deliberately open in theme, one particular award this 12 months highlights a particular focus: the Best Union County “America 250” Sponsor’s Purchase Award. The sponsor invitations photographers who want to take part to submit photographs celebrating our nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, with interpretations rooted in Union County, from flags and landmarks to moments of group satisfaction.

In addition to the $1,250 in prize cash out there, this beloved bi-annual competitors presents photographers a significant platform to showcase their work. From daring experimentation to quiet storytelling, the Viewfinder is about seeing the world by way of your lens. Winners shall be introduced by choose Philip Gould on the awards reception on Thursday, February 12, from 5:30 to 7:00pm.

For extra info, contact the South Arkansas Arts Center at 870-862-5474 or go to www.saac-arts.org.