February 2024 - 2

WELCOME
(Photo by Mark Gocke/WGFD)
Inspired
By Tracie Binkerd, editor
s we release another photo issue, I find myself in a state of
awe. The talent displayed in these pages is truly incredible.
Wildlife and outdoor photography is no easy task. Outdoor
photographers often spend hours with one subject to build trust
and capture wildlife in their natural environment behaving as wild
animals do. Many photographers hike miles to experience wild places,
often before sun-up, in difficult terrain and combating wind,
snow and rain all the while.
Something great about this contest is that it's open to everyone.
While many of the images in these pages are the result of years of
hard work and perseverance, other images show the natural talent
of beginning photographers just cutting their teeth in outdoor
photography. Truly, photographers don't have to be professionals
to get a once-in-a-lifetime shot.
Judging was tough this year, as always. With 3,023 entries, judges
really had to narrow it down to the 99 photos that made the cut.
This year's judging panel consisted of three Wyoming Game and
Fish Department employees and two community members. Game
and Fish judges included myself, Creative Director Patrick Owen
and Statewide Information Specialist Stephanie Estell. From the
public, Pete Arnold and Kelsey Giroux brought their photography
and art expertise to the table. After several rounds of judging for
each category, followed by discussion and each judge independently
2 | February 2024
A
scoring photos on impact, lighting, composition, technical quality
and creativity, the final decisions were made. With so many breathtaking
photos to choose from, some of those that didn't make the
cut were still outstanding images.
This year's contest inspired me in many ways. It encouraged me
to get out with my camera more often and reminded me to bring
my camera everywhere; you never know when the right moment
will come along. As I look through the pages of the photo issue, I
have a strong pull to explore more of the state, hike deeper into
the backcountry than I ever have, explore new areas and experience
something new.
Photographers shared their lives and experiences the best way
they can - through the camera lens. I've got to say, our outdoor
photographers saw it all this year. Some photographers spotted
interesting animal behavior like a cow moose swimming with her
calf as a grizzly approached, a hummingbird with a flower on its
beak or lekking sharp-tailed grouse battling in the spring. Others
adventured to beautiful locales to show Wyoming's amazing scenery
or stayed out late hoping to capture the northern lights on
the few occasions they were visible in the Cowboy State this year.
Photographers captured the beauty of Wyoming's plants and fungi
while taking advantage of the varied outdoor activities people can
enjoy here.
Yes, these images inspired me. My hope is these images will leave
you with a lasting impression as they have me.
February 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of February 2024
