Gov. Jim Justice today unveiled the winning photos from his Almost Heaven Photo Contest. The two-week-long contest generated more than 7,200 photo submissions and helped to round out the West Virginia Tourism Office’s photo gallery for future marketing efforts.
The 11 photographers behind the top photos will each receive $500, and their photos will be featured in the Tourism Office’s new Almost Heaven advertising campaign.
“Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to review thousands of photos from across our great state, and I must say that seeing this large outpour of images makes me prouder than ever to be a West Virginian,” Gov. Justice said. “I’d like to personally thank each and every person who took the time to submit and share with us their photos.”
“Because of you, the Tourism Office now has the photos they need to take our new Almost Heaven advertising campaign to market, and I can’t wait to let the secret about West Virginia out of the bag and share with the world our scenic beauty and all of the great things there are to see and do right here in our backyard.”
The winning photos feature classic scenic landmarks like the Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park, beautiful wildlife shots of bucks and swimming fish, stunning sunsets, sweeping vistas and outdoor recreation images. From the Hatfield-McCoy Trails to Canaan Valley, these photos represent the diverse areas and offerings of the state.
Photo contest winners include: William Brezinski, Teresa Johnson, Shirley Warner, Heather Tillema, Brad Rice, Kevin Jack, Gerald D. Martin, Justin Harris, Reuben Browning, Joe Sharp and Cameron Ellis.
To view the gallery of winning photos, click here.
