Stafford County Economic Development is sponsoring its annual photography contest at the Stafford County Fair, seeking images that may be used on promotional materials and its website.

This year’s contest features four categories — People, Places, Commerce, and a new addition, Business Owners. The People category seeks images depicting individuals interacting through conversation or work. Places focuses on areas, businesses, and unique locations throughout Stafford County. Commerce captures business interactions within cities or beyond city limits but within Stafford County.

The new Business Owner category asks participants to photograph a Stafford County business owner in their natural element at their place of work, accompanied by a two-paragraph essay about how the owner started their business. Winners of the photo and essay combination will receive $50, with additional photo and essay combinations selected receiving $25.

Prize money is awarded in each category, with a $25 prize per category winner. A grand prize winner will receive an additional $25 — $50 total — and have their photo framed and displayed in the Economic Development office. Honorable mention winners receive $5.

All entries must be submitted by 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the Stafford County Fair Building. Photos must be 5x7 inches, mounted on an 11x12.5 studio mount in vertical orientation, taken in Stafford County, and submitted in full color. Exhibitors are limited to two photos per category, six photos total. A release form must be attached to the back of each mount.

Winners will be selected Tuesday evening, July 14, and announced on social media. A digital .jpg file must be provided before prize money is paid.