Event information
Date and time
Location
Online
Contact
Questions? Email .
Buds and Blooms 4-H Photography Challenge
Spending time outdoors to photograph buds and blooms offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down and truly observe the changing seasons.
As plants begin to awaken, each bud and blossom tells a story of growth and renewal. Look closely at the details — the texture of bud, the patterns in leaves and the vibrant colors emerging in spring.
How to participate
Register to participate in the challenge.
Take photos between May 13 and June 8.
Select one image (with no or minimal editing) and write one to two sentences on why the photo is important to you.
Submit your one (1) jpg or jpeg image and your statement in one email to by 11:59 p.m. (CST) on June 8, 2026. Type “Buds and Blooms” in the email subject line, and in the email include the participant’s name, grade, state, your one to two sentence statement and attach your photo submission, as indicated in the rules.
Once your email submission has been received and your registration verified, you will receive a confirmation email. Please be patient to receive your confirmation email as a staff member has to manually do this — it is not automated.
Volunteer 4-H photography judges will provide feedback via a slideshow.
Top photos will be recognized with a prize and random prize drawing winners will also receive a gift.
Rules
- All youth (grades K-13) are welcome but must be enrolled in 4-H. Join 4-H!
- 4-H members must be the ones taking pictures.
- Photos must be taken between May 13 and June 8.
- Photo submissions must be completed in one email by 11:59 p.m. CST on June 8.
- Type “Buds and Bloom” in the email subject line, and in the email include the participant’s name, grade, state, your one to two sentence statement and attach your photo submission.
- Everyone who participates in the photography challenge will have their names entered in a random drawing for prizes.
- Volunteer photography judges will provide feedback and recognize the top-quality images.
- Submitted photos and statements will be shared through an online slideshow.
4-H photography project resources provide information and tips on how to take better photos.
Audience
Open to 4-H youth in grades K-13.
Note: Youth must be enrolled in to participate.
Cost
Free
Registration
Register in 4-H Online.
For assistance, refer to the 4-H Online event registration guide or contact your local Extension educator.
Accommodations
University of Minnesota Extension is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. To request accommodations for persons with disabilities, reach out to the event contact two weeks before the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Language
This offering is delivered in English. Interpreter services may be available with an advance request.