Capturing the Elements: The Weather Channel Photo Contest 2017
The Weather Channel, in collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), launched the Weather Channel Photo Contest 2017, inviting photographers worldwide to capture the beauty and power of weather. This annual event, now in its 12th year, celebrates the unique relationship between humans and the ever-changing weather patterns that shape our world.
Categories and Prizes
The contest was divided into four captivating categories, each offering a unique perspective on weather photography:
- Weather Phenomena: Showcasing the awe-inspiring power of weather, such as storms, lightning, and tornadoes.
- Severe Weather Safety: Highlighting the importance of weather safety, featuring images that educate and inform viewers about severe weather conditions.
- Extreme Weather: Capturing the raw, untamed beauty of extreme weather conditions, like blizzards, hurricanes, and heatwaves.
- Weather and the Environment: Exploring the intersection of weather and the environment, including images of weather's impact on ecosystems and wildlife.
The grand prize winner received a $5,000 cash prize, along with a feature in The Weather Channel's digital and social media platforms. Category winners received $1,000 each, and runners-up received $500.

Judging the Contest
A panel of esteemed judges, including professional photographers, weather experts, and representatives from NOAA, evaluated the submissions. They considered the following criteria when selecting the winners:
- Creativity and originality
- Composition and technical skill
- Impact and emotional resonance
- Relevance to the contest categories
2017's Standout Moments
The Weather Channel Photo Contest 2017 received thousands of entries from photographers across the globe. Some standout moments from the contest included:
- Capturing the "Beast from the East" blizzard that swept across Europe in early 2017.
- Documenting the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey on Houston, Texas.
- Freezing the moment as a lightning storm illuminated the night sky over Australia.
- Showcasing the serene beauty of a snow-covered landscape in Iceland.
Inspiring Future Photographers
The Weather Channel Photo Contest 2017 not only celebrated the art of weather photography but also inspired future photographers to capture the ever-changing weather patterns that shape our world. By encouraging photographers to share their unique perspectives, the contest fostered a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of weather.

As the contest continues to grow in popularity, photographers worldwide eagerly await the opportunity to capture the elements and share their stories through the lens. The Weather Channel Photo Contest 2017 served as a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, there is always beauty to be found in the weather.