The Maine Gerontological Society and the UMaine Center on Aging have teamed with the Maine Community Foundation and the Elder Abuse Institute of Maine on a statewide photography contest, “Focus on Real Aging in Maine” (F.R.A.M.E.).

All photographers, both professionals and amateurs of all ages, are invited to submit images for consideration to help celebrate and promote positive and realistic images of the diversity of aging experiences in Maine. Submissions will be accepted from Wednesday, March 10, through Sunday, May 9.

Professional photographer Jason Paige Smith will hold two Zoom webinars, one for amateur photographers and one for professionals, to offer tips and guidance. Details of the terms and conditions of the contest will also be discussed at both sessions, to be held Wednesday, March 10, at the following Zoom webinar links:

Amateur photographers, 10-11:30 a.m., registration at maine.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwtce-qrTkiEtbtYkOI1FS5Mf3dKA3oiUd9.
Professional photographers, noon-1:30 p.m., registration at maine.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lce2orjsvEtTiZympgVPwEyMX_gEvarNl.

People can take part by submitting their photograph of at least one person aged 50 or older. The picture can be intergenerational, of the submitter, or of their family and friends.

An array of Maine professional and amateur photographers will judge the contest. Seven prize packages will be awarded, including three for professional photographers, three for amateur photographers, and one people’s choice award. Prizes include contributions to winner’s charity or nonprofit of choice, cash awards, and gifts from various Maine businesses.

First place: is $1,000 donation, a Maine State Vehicle Park Pass (value: $105), and $200 cash. Second is a $500 donation, Box of Maine gift box (value: $65), and $150 cash. Third is a $250 donation, Ragged Coast Chocolate, 18-piece Farmers Market Collection (value: $49.50), and $100 cash. People’s Choice is a $250 donation, Lobster Buoy Birdhouse Co. Suet Feeder (value: $44), and $100 cash.

In addition to highlighting and celebrating the real lives of older Mainers, Maine Gerontological Society will create a library of new, relevant, and age-friendly pictures with qualifying entries that will be available free of charge for limited non-commercial use on websites and in other publications by individuals and organizations.

For contest details, terms and condition, and to enter, visit the society’s website F.R.A.M.E. — UMaine Center on Aging – University of Maine at mainecenteronaging.umaine.edu/f-r-a-m-e/.

Also visit the society’s Facebook page to like and follow MGS and to share the contest news with others.