Central ND News

Gov. Kelly Armstrong has announced the winners of the 21st annual North Dakota Governor's Photo Contest. The announcement took place during the North Dakota Travel Industry Conference in Minot. The event was attended by North Dakota Commerce Tourism and Marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman and North Dakota Council on the Arts' Rhea Beto.

This year, the contest received 732 entries from 136 photographers. The competition celebrates North Dakota's natural beauty and the unique experiences found within the state through the eyes of talented photographers. Gov. Armstrong noted, "This year's Governor's Photo Contest brilliantly captures North Dakota's year-round beauty and vibrant experiences." He further commented that the talent displayed in the submissions will significantly help in promoting North Dakota as a top travel destination.

The 2025 contest introduced a new format, emphasizing the state's diverse climate with categories based on the seasons. Photographers were recognized for capturing North Dakota's stunning scenery and captivating activities throughout the year.

The Best in Show award went to Marshall Lipp for his photograph titled "Storm Passing in a July Morning Sunrise." The image captures Sweet Briar Lake in Morton County as the sun appears after a summer storm.

Winners for the fall category included:

- Fall Scenery: Clint Fleckenstein from Bismarck with "A Brilliant Autumn Tree Over an Earth Lodge Village."

- Fall Activities: Sashay Schettler from Bismarck with "Early Fall Ride on the Lewis and Clark Riverboat."

Spring category winners were:

- Spring Scenery: Jessica Schmidt from Mandan with "God’s Grace Overlooking the Missouri River."

- Spring Activities: Chad Martin Olson from Minot with "Western Meadowlark Singing its Prairie Song."

Summer category winners included:

- Summer Scenery: Marshall Lipp from Mandan with the winning Best in Show photograph.

- Summer Activities: Miranda Lindstrom from Amenia with "Checking out the Post Cemetery."

Winter category recognized:

- Winter Scenery: Melissa Bingham from Dickinson with "Wild horses."

- Winter Activities: Marshall Lipp again featured with "A Selfie Under the Northern Lights."

These photographs will be displayed on the 18th floor of the North Dakota State Capitol throughout May. Thanks were extended to the American Automobile Association (AAA) for their partnership in supporting the Governor's Photo Contest.

A description of all winners and honorable mentions, as well as the complete gallery, can be accessed at the provided link.