Young photographers invited to capture Longford's beauty with lots of prizes on offer

Longford County Council has announced the launch of the Explore Longford Young Photographer's Competition, a joint initiative between Longford Library Service and Longford Tourism designed to encourage children to discover and document the county's natural beauty through their lens.

The competition, open to children aged 6-13 years, invites young photographers to submit one photograph showcasing any aspect of County Longford. Entries will be accepted from the competition launch date until Saturday, August 30.

Three exciting prizes await the winners, all celebrating Longford's outdoor attractions. The first prize winner will receive a guided electric bike tour for a family of up to five people with Ethical Tours, Ballymahon, valued at €225. Second place secures a family pass for four to Alan's Yippee Kayaking for supervised kayaking on the Royal Canal, worth €100. The third prize winner will receive a €50 National Book Token.

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The winning photographs will gain additional recognition, with first and second prize entries being printed as greeting cards and sold through Longford Tourism Office, giving young photographers the chance to see their work reach a wider audience.

A selection of the finest entries will feature in an exhibition at Longford Library, launching with a prizegiving ceremony on Friday, September 26.

Paddy Mahon, Chief Executive of Longford County Council, said, "This competition offers our young people a wonderful opportunity to see their county through fresh eyes. Photography teaches children to notice the extraordinary in the ordinary - whether it’s a sunrise on the River Shannon or the architectural details of our market towns. We're excited to see Longford through the perspective of our youngest residents."

Outgoing Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Mark Casey, added, "Children possess an innate curiosity about their surroundings that often reveals hidden gems adults might overlook. This competition not only develops creative skills but encourages families to explore together, strengthening connections between young people and the landscape that shapes their identity. Every photograph tells a story, and we can't wait to discover what stories our young photographers will share."

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The competition forms part of the council's broader commitment to engaging young people with their local heritage and environment whilst developing creative skills.

Children aged 6-13 years are invited to enter the Explore Longford Young Photographer's Competition by emailing their entry to photocompetition@longfordcoco.ie Strictly one photograph entry per child.