e are continually impressed by the incredible pool of talented photographers we have on tap in Aspen, Colorado; so, we created a photo contest on behalf of the Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA) to give the local photographers a venue. The inaugural Aspen Photo Challenge (presented by Aspen Chamber Resort Association & Outside Magazine) took during the peak fall colors from September 26– October 1, 2016.

10 Aspen-based photographers had 5 days to snap images in their backyard and then compete in three categories for cash prizes.

What is the Aspen Photo Challenge?

ACRA and Promo Communications created this event to let local photogs tie dollars to their art and reach a massive social media audience with their photographs. The goal was to vividly portray Aspen through the lenses of Aspen-based photographers. We were looking for a fresh perspective of Aspen illustrated through the images of local photographers. We wanted to engage @AspenCO’s audience with their photography and drive engagement on social media channels. 

 Aspen Photo Challenge Recap:

The 2016 Aspen Photo Challenge, presented by the Aspen Chamber Resort Association with media partner Outside Magazine, concluded the weeklong event at Belly Up with a wrap-up party and award ceremony. Ten local photographers competed on three different categories and had the chance of winning six different prizes. The judges for this year’s challenge were Nicole Birkhold of Birkhold Ink, Tiffany Cook of Aspen Skiing Company, Jim Harris of 5 Point Adventure Film Festival, Jakob Schiller of Outside Magazine, and Andrew Studer and Toby Harriman, two photographers and social media influencers.

Winners for the 2016 Aspen Photo Challenge are:

• Overall winner: Jeremy Swanson
• Overall runner up: Jordan Curet
• Peer-Favorite: Jeremy Swanson
• On the trail category: Jeremy Swanson
• Around town category: Jordan Curet
• Nature category: Jeremy Swanson

Fans had the chance at nominate their favorite Aspen photographer via the Crowd Favorite category. And, the winner of the Crowd Favorite category was: Zach Maraziti!

Participating photographers included:

• Keala Asher
• Seth Beckton
• Dirk Braun
• David Clifford
• Jordan Curet
• Ross Daniels
• Jason Dewey
• Jesse Hoffman
• Zach Maraziti
• Jeremy Swanson

Want to see images from the 2016 Aspen Photo Challenge? CLICK HERE for 10 Beautiful Photos of Aspen Fall Colors from the Aspen Photo Challenge.