A photograph taken in Madison has earned top honors in the Birds category of the 2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest, as the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced this year’s statewide winners.
Christopher Baker captured first place in the Birds division with his image of a great blue heron photographed in Madison.
The annual contest highlights some of the state’s best photographers while showcasing Alabama’s natural landscapes, wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities.
“Alabama is a uniquely beautiful state that offers a wide variety of outdoor photo options,” said ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “From our abundant natural landscapes and native plants and wildlife to the many outdoor recreation opportunities that are available, Alabama is a photographer’s paradise. The images highlighted in this year’s contest once again showcase the reasons why Alabama is such a great place to live and work. Congrats to all of the winning photographers.”
Sponsors of the 2026 contest include Alabama State Parks, the Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officers Association and the Alabama Tourism Department. Winners will receive a prize pack and have their work featured in a traveling exhibit in 2026. Exhibit dates and locations will be posted at outdooralabama.com once finalized.
Other first-place winners included:
- Joe Miller for “Sunset at Cheaha State Park” in the Alabama State Parks category
- Matthew Crowell for Lake Guntersville in Scottsboro in the Scenic category
- Jordan Whitis for a white-tailed buck at Lake Guntersville State Park in the Wildlife category
- Drew Senter for Natural Bridge in Winston County in the Sweet Home Alabama category
In the Young Photographers division, 17-year-old Fisher Cook swept first, second and third place with images taken in McCalla, Dauphin Island and Birmingham.
A full list of winners and the 2026 winning images can be viewed at outdooralabama.com/photocontest.
