Friends of the Forest Preserves Photo Contest Winners Showcase Diversity of Preserves in Cook County

CHICAGO - June 2, 2026 - PRLog -- Friends of the Forest Preserves has announced the winners of its 2025 Photo Contest, celebrating the beauty, biodiversity, and community experiences found throughout the Forest Preserves of Cook County.

The annual contest received roughly 250 submissions representing nearly 50 preserves across Cook County, with entries capturing wildlife, landscapes, plants, waterways, and people enjoying nature throughout all four seasons. Seven youth photographers also participated this year.

Winning photographs were captured at preserves across Cook County, including Axehead Lake (near Des Plaines), Bemis Woods North (near Oak Brook), Burnham Prairie (Burnham), Crabtree Nature Center (Barrington), Eggers Grove (Chicago), Kickapoo Woods (Riverdale), LaBagh Woods (Chicago), Little Red Schoolhouse (Willow Springs), McClaughrey Springs (Palos Park), Spring Creek (Barrington Hills) and the Thorn Creek Trail System (South Suburban Cook County).

"The contest is a true testament to the love people have for the forest preserves," said Sydney Armstead, Associate Director of Engagement. "There were so many unique photos that captured the essence of what we hope to gain from the contest, showcasing the beauty and connection found in the preserves."

Top honors went to Scott Wedell for "Female Hooded Merganser," photographed at Burnham Prairie Marsh; Matt Zuro for "Learning the Ropes (Juvenile Red-tailed Hawk)," photographed at Bemis Woods North; and Timothy Minnick for "Three's a Crowd (Northern Watersnakes)," photographed at Little Red Schoolhouse in Willow Springs.

Additional awards recognized standout photography in bird, flora, fauna, landscape, people, and youth categories. A complete list of winners and photographs is available at: https://fotfp.org/photo-contest/. High-resolution images available upon request.

Contest submissions were judged by a six-person judging committee using multiple rounds of scoring based on quality, uniqueness and creativity.

The winning photographs will be on display during the Friends of the Forest Preserves Photo Contest Reception & Exhibit on Thursday, June 4 at Bramble Arts Loft in Chicago. The free public event offers an opportunity to meet participating photographers, view the winning images, and learn more about Friends of the Forest Preserves. The event is free, registration is encouraged.

Friends of the Forest Preserves also hosts free events, outings, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs throughout the year, offering opportunities to experience many of the landscapes and habitats featured in this year's winning photographs. For more visit: https://fotfp.org/events-calendar/.

About Friends of the Forest Preserves
Friends of the Forest Preserves (https://fotfp.org/), and its 2,500 members, unites people to protect, promote, and care for the forest preserves in Cook County, Illinois to ensure land, water, and life thrive.