Pam Hansen, of Los Gatos, and Don Vu, of Saratoga, were honored last month for the incredible photographs they took while out in nature, winning a Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District contest that was decided by social media voting.
Each year Midpen hosts a photography contest, allowing the public to submit up to three photos taken at its preserves.
There are six categories: Wildlife, Landscapes, Plant Life, People in Nature, Trail Less Traveled and Aspiring Photographers. It was the 15th year the contest has been held.
This year, Midpen received more than 200 submissions. These were narrowed down to finalists in each category by Midpen staff. The winners were chosen by the public through Midpen’s social media accounts. Each category winner received a $100 REI gift card and a swag bag.
“The contest is a fun way for people using everyday technology, like smartphones and cameras, to connect with nature close to home,” said Midpen General Manager Ana Ruiz.
Vu, of Saratoga, won the Wildlife category for a photo of an owl taken at Rancho San Antonio.
Hansen, of Los Gatos, was the Trail Less Traveled winner, for a photo of a decomposing truck in the wild.
“I run our open space trails every morning, and what I love about being in nature is feeling calmed and rejuvenated, and also, sometimes, completely surprised!” Hansen said in the release. “This truck was one of those ‘wow’ moments!”
