“A good photograph is knowing where to stand.” The words of renowned landscape photographer, Ansel Adams, encapsulate the moral of photography, learning to look from a new perspective. A lesson that is reflected in each of his breathtaking black-and-white photographs. For nearly a century, Adams’ work has been inspiring artists across the globe, including artists here in Gwinnett!
Over the last ten years, the Gwinnett chapter of the Georgia Nature Photographers Association has inspired hundreds of artists through their annual photography competition, Stand in Ansel Adams Footsteps. Inspired by Adams’ famous quote, the competition challenges artists to seek a unique perspective, while emulating the style, look and feel of Adams’ work. Last year, Tricia Lynch won Best in Show for her landscape “Georgia on my Mind.”
This year, the 11th annual Stand in Ansel Adams Footsteps Competition and Exhibition will be held in the Hudgens Center for Art and Learning in Duluth from August 15 to October 24, 2026. The exhibit will display over 130 photographs by local artists, including landscape, intimate landscape and close-up images. Each category will be awarded 1st, 2nd and 3rd place as well as Honorable Mentions, and one photograph will be awarded with Best in Show. Participants will be thrilled to know that Chris Greer, award-winning photographer, author and co-host of the PBS series “View Finders”, will be judging this year’s competition!
This autumn, as the seasons change, take the time to admire the beauty of natural landscapes, as you walk down a hall of black-and-white mountains, forests and lakes. See how each artist captures the unique shapes, textures and details found in nature, showcasing a blend of their personal artistry and Ansel Adams’ style. If you’re looking to celebrate local artists or just looking for inspiration yourself, this exhibit is encouraging the future of photography while honoring the greats of the past, and you won’t want to miss it! Click the link below for more information!