06-05-2025
Area photographers among winners in Governor's Photo Contest
May 5—GRAND FORKS — Two area photographers were honored during a recent event to announce the winners of the 21st annual North Dakota Governor's Photo Contest, according to the state's commerce department.
Candace Berg of Devils Lake and Grant Lannoye of Cando were among 136 photographers who submitted entries celebrating the beauty and the unique experiences. Their photos, along with other winning photos, will be used in the state's tourism and marketing efforts.
Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Sara Otte Coleman, tourism and marketing director in the North Dakota Commerce Department, presented the winning entries during the North Dakota Travel Industry Conference on Wednesday, April 30, in Minot.
The 2025 contest was expanded with the introduction of new categories based on seasons, giving photographers more opportunity to submit entries. Winners were chosen for images of stunning scenery that can be seen through all the seasons, as well as activities and events that draw people year-round.
In the fall activities category, Lannoye received an Honorable Mention for his photo, "Eye on Irvine," a picture taken at Lake Irvine in Ramsey County.
In the summer scenery category, Berg received an Honorable Mention for her photo, "Double the Sunshine." Berg was present at the awards event; Lannoye was not.
The winning entries, selected from 732 photos that were submitted for this year's contest, portray "the beauty of North Dakota's four seasons" and the special experiences visitors and residents can enjoy here, according to an announcement from the commerce department.
The Best of Show Award was presented to Marshall Lipp of Mandan for his photo, "Storm Passing in a July Morning Sunrise," which was taken at Sweet Briar Lake in rural Morton County when the sun broke through the clouds after a summer storm.
"This year's Governor's Photo Contest brilliantly captures North Dakota's year-round beauty and vibrant experiences," Armstrong said in the news release. "The exceptional talent displayed in these submissions will be invaluable in showcasing our state as a premier travel destination."
For a description of the winners and honorable mention award recipients, along with the complete gallery, visit
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The photos will be displayed at the North Dakota State Capitol, 18th floor, through May 31.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) partners with the state Department of Commerce in organizing and executing the Governor's Photo Contest.
