The 11th Annual Reader Photo Contest's Winning Entries

Travel and photography are perfect complements to each other. At its core, travel is a celebration of diversity — a journey into the heart of cultures, landscapes and lifestyles. Photography, with its ability to capture the essence of a place, becomes the storyteller of these adventures. 

Photography serves as the visual diary of our travels, documenting not only the places we visit, but also the emotions and connections formed along the way. When we’re armed with cameras, we are more attuned to the beauty of our environment, seeking out hidden gems and appreciating the nuances that might otherwise go unnoticed. The act of photographing a destination also fosters a sense of mindfulness. We often find ourselves more engaged with our surroundings — observing the interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors or intricate architectural details. 

Here, you’ll find not only great images from around the world — all taken by our travel advisor readers — but a celebration of the richness that travel brings to our lives. Between the faces, landscapes and wildlife in these scenes, hopefully you’ll be able to feel a moment captured in time and space. Memories to last a lifetime — made one frame at a time.

First Place: Paul Svedersky, Yankee Clipper Travel

“I recently went on a tour of Ethiopia, a place I’ve been dreaming about visiting for years. We were a small group of five and visited a nomadic group of Mursi people. While some in the West might think this look is quite odd — to say the least — the Mursi tribe believes lip plates are quite attractive.

I like the simplicity of the photo, capturing a mother and her child. The child is already adorned with a necklace and an ankle bracelet, and probably accustomed to the plate and body adornments of the mother. Another generation carrying on the tradition that all families have — although this one may be rather unfamiliar to us.

As a travel advisor, I think travel can bring out the best in people and is such an educational experience. Going beyond the known to the unknown expands our horizons in so many ways.”

Second Place: Marcia Dillon, Caprice Travel 

“Located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal, Pashupatinath Temple — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is an ancient place of worship for those of the Hindu faith.

Holy men, known as sadhus, are very significant to Hindus. These sadhus were at the temple to offer prayers and comfort to the families of the deceased who were being cremated across from the temple by the river. This holy site offers wonderful opportunities to observe the funeral and religious rituals of Hindus.

The colors in the photo and the composition with the two holy men are what make this photo work. It’s so interesting to visit these sites and experience different cultures firsthand. Nothing replaces the excitement of seeing these places in person, and having the chance to interact with the people.”

Third Place: Julie Patterson, Wanderfully Planned

“On a visit to Punaluu Black Sand Beach on Hawaii Island, I was able to capture this green sea turtle basking in the sun. I was captivated by the way that the turtle instinctively knew where and how to nestle itself in the black rock and sand for comfort, warmth and safety. In my previous life as a tour guide, leading trips throughout Hawaii, I was able to witness these special, prehistoric creatures — unchanged with time — in both the sea and on land. It was a sight I never tired of.

People travel to see the world, to see the beauty that is different from what they have at home — landscapes, food, culture and animals. I think this photo resonates with people because it brings them into that feeling.”

Honorable Mention: Annie Jones, Telos Travel  

“This photo of a leopard was taken shortly after a failed hunt. I was out on safari in Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve with my family, and we got word that there was a leopard on the prowl. We sat patiently waiting and watching as it kept stalking closer and closer, but after about 45 minutes, it ultimately abandoned the hunt. We followed until it took shelter under a tree for a short rest, where I was able to snap the photo.

On safari, you’re always told that the cats see the vehicle as one large object and not individual people. But when you capture a photo where an animal is staring directly into your lens, it feels like they are looking right into your soul, which can be really humbling. I think some of that feeling comes through in this photo, as well.”

Honorable Mention: Julie Patterson, Wanderfully Planned

“The best view of Yellowstone’s Grand Prismatic Spring is from an overlook that many visitors don’t know about. We hiked the short trail to the overlook and were treated to such an incredible view. I have a 100-600 zoom lens that allowed me to get up-close and detailed shots of the spring, showing a different perspective of a famous feature of the park.

I enjoy planning travel for people, but more importantly, I love having a positive impact on people’s lives — helping them to learn and grow and see the world, themselves and their loved ones with a different perspective.”

Honorable Mention: Jerry Chinn, Sky Travel Network

“I took this sunset photo of elephants at a watering hole in Botswana. Seeing and photographing animals in the wild, living as nature intended, is a rare experience for most people in today’s world. Sadly, it’s also an opportunity that is quickly disappearing. In sharing photos such as this, I hope to raise awareness of what is being lost, and what we need to strive to preserve.

Travel helps me better understand how much people are more alike than different. It’s why I share my travel experiences and want to help others create their own.”

Honorable Mention: Annie Jones, Telos Travel 

“This photo was taken on Kapama Private Game Reserve in South Africa. Kapama is home to Jabulani Safari and HERD Trust — a nonprofit supporting a group of orphaned elephants. One evening, we were enjoying a view of the elephant herd making its way back to the stables from a watering hole, when several zebras stopped by for a drink, right as the sun was setting behind them.

Every travel experience provides something new and exciting. My favorite clients to work with are those who push themselves outside their comfort zones to experience something new, because they always return with stories of how their adventures have changed them.”

Honorable Mention: Jerry Chinn, Sky Travel Network 

“To celebrate our granddaughter’s high school graduation, my wife and I took her to Greece. In Athens, we booked a private tour that included the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where we saw this highly choreographed changing of the guard ceremony.

To me, this photo is an iconic image, and it represents the proud history of the Greek people.”

Honorable Mention: Brenda McCafferty, World Travel Destinations and Cruises

“The vibrant colors in this photo represent the hope of the Cuban people. I’ve never been so close to home, yet felt so far away. We had an amazing experience in Cuba — with superb service and kindness everywhere we went.

Travel opens the mind of all people. I honestly believe Americans cannot appreciate how fortunate we are until we step out of our comfort zone. We live in an amazing world!”