News Photographers invited to get snappy and capture Maidstone’s stories
Photographers are being invited to showcase Maidstone through their own eyes as part of a photography competition launched by Visit Maidstone, celebrating the landscapes, culture, heritage and everyday moments that make the borough special.
Titled “Capture Maidstone’s Stories: Through Your Lens”, the competition is open to anyone aged 16 or over who lives in or is visiting the UK, from amateur enthusiasts to professional photographers. Entrants are encouraged to submit authentic, inspiring images that reflect Maidstone’s unique character, from peaceful countryside and historic landmarks to vibrant community life and hidden gems.
Photographers can submit photographs into one or more of five themed categories:
- Nature & Landscapes – Showcasing Maidstone’s countryside, waterways and villages, capturing seasonal change, wildlife and the rich biodiversity found across the borough.
- Moments in History – bringing Maidstone’s past to life through landmarks and heritage
- Life in Maidstone – capturing the people, culture, events and diversity of the borough
- Hidden Gems – showcasing lesser-known places and perspectives
- Tastes & Traditions – reflecting local food, drink and social moments
Photographs must be taken within the Maidstone borough and can be submitted in landscape or portrait format, with up to five images per person. Submissions will be judged by a panel led by Alex Hare, an acclaimed tourism and professional photographer who has provided much of the imagery for Visit Maidstone.
Cllr Stephen Thompson, Cabinet Member for Healthier Stronger Communities at Maidstone Borough Council, said: “Maidstone has so many incredible stories to tell, shaped by its people, communities, heritage and natural environment.
“This competition is an opportunity for residents and visitors to share what makes our borough special to them, while helping us celebrate pride in place and strengthen Maidstone’s identity as a great place to live, visit and enjoy.”
Winners will be selected for each category, alongside an overall winner. The overall winner will receive £250, with £50 prizes awarded to category winners. Selected entries will also be featured on the Visit Maidstone website and social media channels, helping to promote the borough to a wider audience.
The deadline for entries is 30 June 2026.
For more details and to enter, visit the website.
By entering the competition, photographers grant Visit Maidstone (Maidstone Borough Council) permission to use submitted images for promotional purposes, with full credit given to the photographer.
Full terms and conditions can be found online.