The Candace Freeland Photography of Merit Award

The Mitford Museum invites you to participate in our annual Candace Freeland Photography of Merit Award. The Merit Award was developed in honor of Mitford Museum founder Jan Karon’s late daughter and gifted photographer, Candace Freeland. Open to young artists aged 8-22, Merit is an annual photography contest designed to help support budding artists pursue their passions in photography through professionally led seminars and cash awards. Current and past judges include Sam Abell, Tim Barnwell, Tom Rankin, and Maggie Flanigan.

Contest Details:

Participants submit photos taken on their smartphones in color or black and white.

Cash prizes totaling $4500 distributed amongst grand prize winners, runners-up, and People’s Choice in the below categories:

• Youth (Aged 8-15) – Black and White | Color
• Young Adults (Aged 16-22) – Black and White | Color

Deadline to submit is Sept 01, 2026

For more information please visit: Merit Awards | The Mitford Museum