Photographer Stacy Niedzwiecki to Represent Muskegon / White Lake in Pure Michigan Photo Contest

PRLog (Press Release) - Mar. 15, 2009 - This exciting new event began the first day of March and runs through June 30, 2009. Ten photographers are competing for $5000 cash (or equivalent) in specific designated locations across the state during this time period. Advanced-amateur and professional photographers were invited to apply. Each entrant was required to submit a 20-image portfolio for review in December of 2008. Approximately 40 photographers applied, and ten were pre-approved to compete. Each photographer has been partnered with a Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) and will photograph in that designated geographic area. The CVB "hosts" the photographer by providing accommodations as often as is reasonable during the four-month event.

“If a picture is worth a thousand words, this is the ideal opportunity to give Muskegon County a chance to speak for itself. There is no better way to capture the wonders of Muskegon as the premier travel destination in Michigan than through the lens of photographer Stacy Niedzwiecki,” says Jill Foreman, Tourism Manager for the Muskegon County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We are honored to have such a talented photographer who is native to the area and in touch with the heart and soul of Muskegon. The Pure Michigan photo contest is an exciting opportunity to promote the treasures of Muskegon County and the unparalleled artistry of Stacy Niedzwiecki.”

The purpose of this photography competition is to provide breathtaking publications with stunning travel and scenic images of Michigan to promote, support and drive tourism in the State of Michigan and to further enhance the Pure Michigan tourism campaign. The mission of the Pure Michigan Photography Competition is to create an outstanding opportunity for photographers and Convention and Visitor Bureaus (CVB’s). “The White Lake Area is so proud to be participating in this competition,” remarks Amy VanLoon, Executive Director of the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. “What a great opportunity to feature our area as a desirable travel destination. We look forward to this unique project with Pure Michigan and working with our amazing photographer, Stacy Niedzwiecki. Our beautiful area has so much to offer and we are excited to see that captured as a result of this photo contest.”

"The Pure Michigan photo contest is a great way for people around the world to share their Michigan travel experiences," commented George Zimmermann, Vice President of Travel Michigan, a business unit of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. "We regularly receive Michigan images from photographers. This contest now serves as a way to recognize the outstanding photographers taking breathtaking images of Michigan."
The beautiful award-winning images taken during the Competition will be showcased online at http://www.puremichiganphotocontest.com and in an annual book, Pure Michigan - Scenic Places, along with the photographer's bio, photo and web site information.

Photographer Stacy Niedzwiecki

Niedzwiecki has been a graphic designer for over 25 years, offering innovative solutions for a wide variety of clients. Her areas of expertise are reflected in a portfolio of logos, brochures, fliers, advertisements, newsletters and event promotion materials. In addition to traditional design projects, she also serves as webmaster for a number of organizations.

Although her core skills remain focused on graphic design and layout, Stacy now leverages her talents in digital photography and digital art. Her fascination with nature’s beauty has found its way through the camera lens, earning high awards in many art and photography competitions. Her work has been featured in the Michigan 24/7 photography book, Whisper in the Woods Nature Journal, the Rockford Squire newspaper, Michigan Blue magazine and the Explore St. Louis Official Visitors’ Guide. She is a member of the North American Nature Photographers Association (NANPA), Greener Photography, the Michigan Audubon Society, the Glen Arbor Art Association and the Outdoor Discovery Center of Allegan County, Michigan.

In August of 2008, two of Stacy’s artworks were selected to hang on display at the Governor’s Residence in Lansing as part of the Governor’s Residence Michigan Artists Program, which is hanging through July 2009. Her most honored accomplishment has been the installation of 63 of her nature images at the permanent art collection in the new Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion, which opened in June 30, 2008 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

“I'm excited to have been chosen for this inaugural photo competition because Michigan offers so much for residents and tourists alike. In this tight economy, I plan to showcase excellent, special – and affordable – recreation within a day's drive.” Niedzwiecki says.
"Being selected to represent Michigan’s beautiful imagery is an honor I’m taking seriously. I’ve already spent hours studying maps, speaking with local residents and working with my CVB team. The Muskegon / White Lake area has a terrific blend of activities, from cultural events, restaurants and lakeshore landmarks to outdoor fun, sports and local flora and fauna. I’m really looking forward to the challenge of capturing it all--and leading us to first place!” Niedzwiecki adds.

The artist offers her work for sale at several retail establishments and online - visit http://www.MichiganMoments.com - a beautiful daily photo exploration of the Great Lakes State.

Experience the Lake Effect in Muskegon County

Muskegon

Like sand or snow, the memories made in Muskegon will not be ones to simply brush off. They'll stick with you long after your visit to the area. The sugar sand beaches and dunes are nationally recognized and they offer a perfect natural playground, but Muskegon is much more than sand between your toes. Your visit or vacation will be taken to a whole new level. Ride miles of thrills aboard the Shivering Timbers Rollercoaster or defy gravity on the Funnel of Fear at Michigan's Adventure Amusement and Waterpark. Experience over 60 rides including the new coaster Thunderhawk. Enjoy a live concert on Muskegon Lake during Summer Celebration. Experience a rare thrill on the luge run at Muskegon's Winter Sports Complex, 1 of only 4 tracks in North America. Visit one or all of three State Parks along the lakeshore for camping, hiking and relaxation. The area also boasts over 60 miles of winding trails for bike enthusiasts. Include history and culture into your visit with Muskegon's Museum of Art, Great Lakes Naval Memorial & Museum and the Hackley/Hume historic site.

Discover more at:
http://www.visitmuskegon.org

White Lake Area

The White Lake Area is comprised of the sister cities, Montague and Whitehall. This beautiful region is located in the most northern part of Muskegon County and stretches along the shore of Lake Michigan. It is often thought of as a 4 season's playground with boating, fishing, hiking, skiing and snowmobiling, golfing, biking, or just kicking back on the beaches. Recreational enthusiasts will find a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy in the White Lake area year round. Favorite attractions include the White River Light Station, Michigan's Adventure Amusement Park, the World's Largest Weathervane as well as historic neighborhoods and downtown areas. Visitors and locals enjoy shopping in quaint and charming stores along with a variety of dining experiences in Montague and Whitehall. The arts abound with ongoing venues and projects along with performances held at the Howmet Playhouse entertaining thousands throughout the year. Community concerts are held weekly at the Montague Band Shell during the summer months while many festivals and activities fill the calendar from season to season. All are invited to come, stay and enjoy the beautiful White Lake area, your 4 seasons playground.

Discover more at:
http://www.whitelake.org

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/10199245/1