Carolina Woman readers submitted extraordinary pictures to the magazine’s annual Photo Contest. Their images display the originality that results when technical excellence meets creative spirit.

The entrants often focused on the wonders of nature. Picture-perfect glimpses of profound beauty were shot from a fresh point of view.

This year’s work was of such a high level that it was difficult to choose top dogs. We thank all the visual creators who submitted. The prize-winners are below, and additional dazzlers will be shown in the months to follow.

– Debra Simon

Grand Prize
"Mountain Cabin Sunset” "
By Tina Morrison of Cary

First Prize
"Pink Lotus"
By Lisa Van Fleet of Mebane

Second Prize
"Frozen in Time – Mebane"
By Mikel Sanfilippo of Mebane

Third Prize
"One Little Heart"
By Eileen Carey of Raleigh

Fourth Prize
"Blue Footed Booby and Baby Booby"
By Ken Rieger of Summit, N.J.

Fifth Prize
"Quartzite and Conifers"
By Kathleen Jablonski of Leland, N.C.

Sixth Prize
"Blue Jean Frog Visitor"
By Christine Shooter of Chapel Hill

Seventh Prize
"Mealtime"
By Clarke Cochran of Indian Trail, N.C.

Honorable Mention
"Amaryllis ‘Sunshine Nymph,’ Coral Echo"
By Joleen A. Stephan-Mease of Charlotte