May 25, 2025

Friends of the Columbia Gorge is proud to announce the winners of our 2025 photo contest, “Lenscape: Through Nature’s Eyes,” sponsored for the ninth consecutive year by the Portland metro area’s go-to photo equipment store, Pro Photo Supply.

Grand Prize Winner

Paloma Ayala, Hood River, OR
@paloma.photo.nature

The Gorge’s Natural Form: Tom McCall Nature Preserve at Rowena Crest. Photo taken on October 26, 2024.

I’ve always admired the canyons leading to Rowena Crest. I enjoy taking pictures from above to show the wide shadows and unique shapes of the land. In this photo, I wanted to highlight the beauty of the cliffs and the importance of protecting these wild, open spaces that remain free of signs of human development. These areas offer a peaceful escape and a place to connect with nature. Nearby, there is a little neighborhood with a tennis court, visible on the left side of the photo. While human presence exists close by, it’s essential to preserve these natural areas so everyone can continue to enjoy their beauty and tranquility for years to come. – Paloma Ayala

Action/Adventure Category Winner

Richard Hallman, Hood River, OR
@richardhallman_photo

Mountain Ecstasy. Illumination Rock on Mt. Hood.

Culture & Community Category Winner

Stephan Ilie, Portland, OR
@sishashin13

Night sky view from Wind Mountain, Washington.

Scenic Eastern Gorge Category Winner

John Williams, Battle Ground, Washington
@jwwdvm

Early grass widow blooms at Rowena Crest in the Columbia Gorge.

Scenic Western Gorge Category Winner

John Williams, Battle Ground, Washington
@jwwdvm

Wildflower blooms at Dog Mountain, Washington.

Storms & Clouds Category Winner

Stephan Ilie, Portland, OR
@sishashin13

Sunrise at Crown Point, Oregon.

Waterfalls Category Winner

Daniel Rappaport, Corbett, Oregon
@pnw_naturescape_dan

Sunbeams at Dry Creek Falls, Oregon.

Wildlife Category Winner

Jake Woodard, Camas, Washington
@woodardphotos

Ospreys competing for a nest.

Friends Staff Pick Category Winner

Stephen Datnoff, Hood River, Oregon
@misternoff

Great egret reflection.

Honorable Mention: Action/Adventure Category

Stephen Datnoff, Hood River, Oregon
@misternoff

Windsurfing on the Columbia River in 75 mph gusts.

Honorable Mention: Action/Adventure Category

Richard Hallman, Hood River, OR
@richardhallman_photo

Full moon rock climbing.

Honorable Mention: Culture & Community Category

Paloma Ayala, Hood River, OR
@paloma.photo.nature

Jumping into Adventure: Friendship Unplugged. Children jumping into the Columbia River near Hood River, Oregon.

Honorable Mention: Scenic Eastern Gorge Category

Paloma Ayala, Hood River, OR
@paloma.photo.nature

Wispy clouds on the big river.

Honorable Mention: Scenic Western Gorge Category

John Williams, Battle Ground, Washington
@jwwdvm

Cape Horn Trail bursting with spring color.

Honorable Mention: Wildlife Category

Jake Woodard, Camas, Washington
@woodardphotos

Short-eared owl.