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Penguins on a beach with mountains in the distance
Penguins on a beach with mountains in the distance

Lone Tree Photo Show

Exploring the Light

The 24th Annual Exploring the Light Photo Show will be from March 26 – June 21, 2026. The show is presented by the Lone Tree Arts Commission and the Lone Tree Photo Club, with support from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). See the world through a different lens with the Exploring the Light Photo Exhibit at the Lone Tree Arts Center. Local photographers come together to create a visual collage of different styles, subjects and sentiments.

Apply to the Call

 

Important Dates

December 29th – Call for Entry opens – Apply Here
February 11th – Deadline / Entry closed
February 12th – February 15th – Jurying
February 16th – Notification
March 24th – Drop-off Images: 3:00pm – 6:00pm
March 27th – Opening Reception: 4:00pm – 6:00pm
June 22nd – Pick-up Images: 3:00pm – 6:00pm

2026 Categories

• Landscape
• Animals
• Portraits
• Sports
• Still Life

Jurying and Awards

Individual images submitted via CaFE TM are juried by a blind jury review process. Invited images are juried for awards based on final presentation of artwork including the image quality, content, frame, mat, and tile. Photographer identification will be hidden from view when jurying. Total cash awards are estimated at $3,350. Best of Show as well as first and second place winners in each category will be awarded gallery space for several weeks after the show at the Lone Tree Arts Center. Awards include first, second, and third place in each category, along with Best of Show and People’s Choice.

Entry and Fees

Photographers must apply via CaFE TM by the entry deadline of Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Up to 3 entries may be submitted by an individual. A non-refundable $37 entry fee is required. Fees may be paid via credit card on CaFE TM.

Opening Reception

Friday, March 27th, 2026 from 4pm-6pm

Join us to celebrate the opening of the Exploring the Light Lone Tree Photo Show. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and hear brief remarks!

2026 Juror – Cliff Lawson

After his retirement Cliff took up his old photography hobby which eventually turned into a second career. He is now a noted portrait photographer specializing in high school seniors, families, and corporate headshots. He said he will do a wedding if they pay him a half million dollars…cash and no refunds. He holds advanced degrees and certifications from the PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF AMERICA—Certified Professional Photographer, Master of Photography, and Photographic Craftsman.

He is also a graduate of the judging school for the Professional Photographers of America and has been judging at local camera clubs for the last 10 years.

Almost nine years ago he started a personal project of making portraits of military veterans. Over time it has grown far beyond his original concept and to date he has photographed just over 200 veterans from WWII up through the Iraq and Afghanistan era. His veteran portraits have won several national and international awards. You can view his work at: www.coloradoveteranportraits.com

A photo of Cliff Lawson