Are you a photographer with an eye for natural beauty? If so, then Outdoor Alabama magazine would love to see your photos. The magazine’s 2014 Photo Contest is underway, with photos being accepted through October. Entries must be submitted on a CD-ROM or a DVD and accompanied by an official entry form, which can be downloaded at www.outdooralabama.com/outdoor-alabama/photo_con.cfm.

The contest is open to any amateur photographer except employees of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and members of their immediate families. An amateur is defined as someone who does not earn a living from photography. Photographers may enter up to 10 photos, which may be in the same category or spread among different categories.

The categories include: Alabama State Parks, Birds, Mammals, Reptiles/Amphibians/Fish, Other Native Wildlife, Scenic/Pictorial, Nature-Based Activities, Wild Flora, Youth Ages 6-12 and Youth Ages 13-18. The winning entries will be published in the February 2014 issue of Outdoor Alabama and exhibited across the state in several different venues.

According to Outdoor Alabama Editor Kim G. Nix, the key to getting a good photo is a mixture of good technique and selecting subject matter that draws the eye. “People always ask what we’re looking for in a good photo. The first thing I tell them is to make sure the picture is in focus. That’s really the first criteria in our selection-a sharp photo.

Next, try to isolate your subject so that bird, plant or person is the main focal point. Compose the photo so there’s not a lot of competing background,” she said.

“This photo contest encourages people to explore the outdoors with their cameras. We’d really like to see more youth involved in the contest. We have special categories for them so they are competing against others the same ages,” she added.

Entries must be postmarked by Oct. 31, 2013. For more information, call 800-262-3151, write to Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest, 64 N. Union St., Ste. 106, Montgomery, AL 36130, or email Kim Nix at kim.nix@dcnr.alabama.gov.

To view winners of the 2013 photo contest visit www.outdooralabama.com/photos/oaphotos/13winners/.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.