Hot Topics     Home and Family     After School    

DEC’s 3rd annual Fall Foliage Photo Contests



Show off your photography skills

3rd annual Fall Foliage Photo Contests


DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar announced the return of DEC’s 3rd annual Fall Foliage Photo Contests. The two photo contests are a popular way for New Yorkers and visitors to show off the incredible array of fall foliage throughout New York State during the month of October.

DEC is asking New Yorkers to share their favorite and most creative fall foliage shots showcasing New York State. Photos should be submitted to social@dec.ny.gov with the subject line “Fall Foliage Photo Contest” or “Conservationist Magazine Photo Contest.” Participants are advised to attach one photo per email entry and include the location the photo was taken (can be general and not specific). Pictures must be of a location in New York State. 

Fall Foliage Instagram Contest 
DEC is sharing submissions on Instagram throughout the month. On four consecutive Fridays (Oct. 11, Oct. 18, Oct. 25, and Nov. 1), DEC will announce three winners for each week. Each winner will receive a $100 gift card to a sporting goods store, a free year subscription to Conservationist magazine, a copy of DEC’s New York State Wildlife Viewing Guide, a DEC reusable bag, and other swag. Be sure to get your photos submitted right away.


During the week of Nov. 4 - 8, DEC will hold an Instagram story bracket featuring all 12 winners, and followers will have the opportunity to vote for a grand prize winner. In addition to the prizes mentioned, the grand prize winner will receive a 2025 Empire Pass. The Empire Pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most facilities operated by DEC and New York State Parks including forests, beaches, trails, and more.

Conservationist Magazine Photo Contest 
Photos must be a minimum of 8.5”x10.75” and 300dpi to be considered. The winning photo will be featured in the October/November 2025 issue of DEC’s Conservationist magazine

For more information, visit DEC's website.



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Nourish family connections with every bite

    Boost social, emotional and physical health with egg-inspired recipes

    Dine together, shine together. Weekly sit-down meals with family can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel more connected – all while sharing delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare food. read more »
  • Lasers: A safer alternative to weight-loss drugs?

    Information to help you make the decision that is right for you

    Weight-loss drugs have skyrocketed in popularity because of their quick results and use among celebrities and influencers. J.P. Morgan predicts that by 2030, 30 million Americans will use them. read more »
  • Celebrate cozy season with a creamy, comforting meal

    Super soup that is easy to make

    A snug sweater, a crackling fire and a meal that warms you from the inside out are perfect ways to spend a cool autumn evening with the people you love. read more »
  • Simple, flavorful fall dessert

    A yummy recipe your family will love

    If your family’s taste buds have grown tired of apple-inspired fall desserts, simply look toward another quintessential autumn flavor: pumpkin. Quick and easy to prepare using a spice cake mix that provides all the flavor without the stress, this cake can be dressed to impress at a fall gathering or served after weeknight dinner. read more »
  • A go-to sweet potato side

    Treat yourself and your family to this simple dish

    Sweet potatoes seem to scream “fall,” especially this roasted version that pairs well with a wide variety of family favorites like fried chicken. It can be your go-to recipe when comfort cravings call for a savory (not sweet) side. read more »
  • Keep cold and flu season at bay

    4 top tips from experts

    It doesn’t take much for cold and flu symptoms to take over. Even a mild case of the sniffles can make navigating everyday life's demands difficult. It’s virtually impossible to avoid germs altogether, but you can ensure you’re ready to fight off an infection, whether a minor cold or a full-blown case of the flu. read more »
  • What you don't know can hurt

    3 facts about updated COVID-19 vaccines

    Four and a half years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are once again enjoying time with friends and family and doing their favorite things. However, the virus that causes COVID-19 keeps changing, so it’s still important to stay up to date on your vaccinations. read more »
  • Fall respiratory virus vaccines

    What pregnant people need to know

    Fall brings cooler days and more time indoors. This makes it easier for viruses like influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to spread. These illnesses can be especially risky for pregnant people and newborns. read more »
  • The truth about women and heart disease

    7 steps you can take

    Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States. Although it is largely preventable, each year more than 300,000 women, or 1 in every 5, die from heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. read more »
  • Tips to be prepared for cooler weather

    The cold makes it easier for viruses to spread

    Although cold weather isn’t directly to blame when you get sick, it creates an environment that makes it easier for germs and illnesses to thrive. Understanding how cooler temperatures affect your chances of getting sick may be your best approach for preventive care. read more »