OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Colorful, creatures and calm are words that describe the award-winning images from this year’s Florida SpringsFest Photography Contest.

The Appleton Museum of Art at the College of Central Florida (CF) and the Silver Springs State Park partnered to organize the contest which is designed to celebrate Marion County’s beautiful natural springs.

The public was invited to submit photos taken at Silver Springs.

Organizers say the contest was open to all ages and a total of 269 photos were submitted across the three categories: Color; Flora and Fauna; and People.

Dave Miller, an Ocala-based photographer and videographer, and co-owner of Maven Photo + Film, judged the entries.

“Art and nature are incredibly important to Florida residents and visitors, alike. This is a great way to bring the community together while conserving and enjoying this beautiful piece of the state,” said Park Services Specialist Ruth Fletcher.

The winning entries are on display at Silver Springs State Park and the Appleton Museum of Art through April 30. Regular admission fees apply to see the photo display.

Photography Contest Winners

Color Category
First place: Monique Kelley
Second place: Karl Smith

First-place winner in the Color category was this submission by Monique Kelley. Courtesy: Monique Kelley via Appleton Museum of Art
Second-place winner in the Color category was this submission by Karl Smith. Courtesy: Karl Smith via Appleton Museum of Art

Flora & Fauna Category
First place: Zachary Shaul
Second place: Sharon Howard

First-place winner in the Flora and Fauna category was this submission by Zachary Shaul. Courtesy: Zachary Shaul via Appleton Museum of Art
Second-place winner in the Flora and Fauna category was this submission by Sharon Howard. Courtesy: Sharon Howard via Appleton Museum of Art

People Category
First place: Dawn A. Campbell
Second place: Kailey Lentsch

First-place winner in the People category was this submission by Dawn A. Campbell. Courtesy: Dawn A. Campbell via Appleton Museum of Art
Second-place winner in the People category was this submission by Kailey Lentsch. Courtesy: Kailey Lentsch via Appleton Museum of Art