Photographers of all skill levels are invited to submit their work for the 2026 Viewfinder Photography Competition, which offers over $1,200 in total prize money and opportunities for publication in The El Dorado Insider. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a weekend wanderer with a camera, or someone who simply loves capturing the moments that make life meaningful, now is the time to take those photos you’ve been thinking about and share them with your community. Submissions are due by January 27 with the exhibition open to the public February 2 and running through March 1.
With more than $1,250 in prize money on the line—and the chance to see your work published in The El Dorado Insider—this bi-annual competition is your moment to step up, show off your skills, and let your creativity shine. Don’t sit this one out. Take the shot and be part of one of SAAC’s most beloved artistic traditions.
As longtime supporters of this SAAC tradition, The Diamond Agency and The El Dorado Insider are once again sponsoring the competition. This year’s Sponsor’s Purchase Award theme, “America 250,” invites photographic interpretations celebrating our nation’s 250 years of freedom and the enduring spirit of patriotism within Union County. The winner of the “America 250” Purchase Award will receive a $250 prize, and their work will be featured in The El Dorado Insider.
Additional cash prizes include $500 for Best of Show, $250 for First Place, $150 for Second Place, and $100 for Third Place. Awards will be announced at the artists reception hosted on Thursday, February 12, 5:30 to 7:00pm. All winning entries will also be considered for publication in The El Dorado Insider quarterly magazine.
“As one of the proud sponsors of the annual Viewfinder photo contest, we are excited to help celebrate the talent and creativity of photographers across our community. This year, our $250 Purchaser’s Award will honor the upcoming ‘America 250’ celebration. This category invites participants to capture images from across Union County that reflect patriotism, American flags, or meaningful symbols of our nation. From home-town traditions to powerful moments of community pride, we look forward to seeing how local photographers portray the American spirit through their lenses,” said Don Hale of The Diamond Agency. “The Diamond Agency is honored to support this South Arkansas Arts Center tradition and is excited to showcase the talent and photography that tells the story of Union County—and America—in a memorable way,” continued Hale.
Photographers may use any type of camera, and prints may be produced on any medium. Basic corrective editing, whether completed in a darkroom or digitally, is permitted, but graphic manipulation is not allowed. Submitted works must not have been previously shown in the Viewfinder Competition. Each photographer may submit up to two framed photographs to SAAC by January 27, 2026. The entry fee is $10, and all SAAC members receive one free entry.
