Nikkels Photography, a SLO-based photographer, introduces her Images of the Year contest for her photos from 2024.

---

As we step into 2025, I can’t help but look back on the incredible journey that 2024 has been! From breathtaking weddings to heartfelt engagement sessions, celebrating milestones like senior portraits, and capturing the joy of growing families, this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. Each session has been a testament to the beauty of life’s moments, and every image feels like a piece of art.

Image of the Year Contest

This year, I’ve had the honor of working with so many amazing clients, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me to document your most cherished memories. To celebrate YOU and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared, I’m thrilled to introduce our very first Image of the Year Contest!

This contest is all about reflecting on the beauty and joy of 2024 while celebrating the wonderful people who made this year so special. Below, you’ll find a collection of handpicked images from this year’s sessions—weddings, seniors, family gatherings, and everything in between.

Now it’s your turn to help us crown the top images of the year!

---

How It Works

Participating is simple and fun!

1. Scroll through the images below and pick your favorite.
2. Leave a comment at the bottom of the page with your vote.
   Example: “We vote for #3 – Sarah and Jason’s wedding!”

Pro Tip: Each comment counts as ONE vote, so invite your friends and family to join in and cheer for their favorite image! (Every vote helps, so spread the word!)

---

The Prizes

What’s a contest without some exciting rewards? Here’s what’s up for grabs:

• Third Place: A $20 gift card to our favorite local coffee shop, Nautical Bean (@nauticalbean).
• Second Place: A $50 gift card to the fabulous Rob & Hammer (@robandhammerrock).
• Grand Prize: A one-hour photo session PLUS a $50 Amazon gift card!

---

Key Dates to Remember

• Round One: Voting ends Saturday, January 18th at midnight. The Top 10 images will advance to the next round!
• Round Two: Voting reopens Sunday, January 19th, and closes Friday, January 24th. The Top 5 images will make it to the final round!
• Final Round: The ultimate showdown kicks off Saturday, January 25th, and concludes Thursday, January 30th.
• Winners Announced: Mark your calendars for Friday, January 31st, 2025 when we reveal the winners!

---

Why This Images of the Year Contest Matters

This contest isn’t just about choosing an image—it’s about celebrating the special moments we’ve created together over the past year. Each photograph tells a story of love, joy, and connection, and your votes bring those stories to life.

So, whether you’re voting for your wedding photo, your best friend’s engagement session, or your favorite senior portrait, your participation means the world. Let’s relive the beauty of 2024 together and make this contest a celebration to remember!

---

Let the Voting Begin!

Thank you for being part of this amazing journey. Your support and trust mean everything, and I’m so excited to see which images shine in this year’s contest.

Let’s kick off 2025 by celebrating the unforgettable memories of 2024. Cast your vote, spread the word, and let’s make this contest one for the books!