Young photographers invited to capture Longford's beauty with lots of family prizes on offer

Longford Libraries launches photography contest for children 

Press Release: Friday, 3 July 2026 

Longford Libraries Services has announced the launch of the Explore Longford Young Photographer's Competition. This competition is designed to encourage children to discover and document the county's natural beauty through their lens. 

The competition, open to children 6-13 years, invites young photographers to submit one photograph showcasing any aspect of County Longford. Entries will be accepted from the competition launch date until Saturday, 29 August. 

Photography Workshops with Shelley Corcoran will be held in the three Municipal Districts of Longford to help prepare the young photographers. Workshops took place in Granard at the end of June and workshops will also take place in Longford and Ballymahon on Wednesday, 8 July. 

The winning photographs will be printed as greeting cards giving young photographers the chance to see their work reach a wider audience. National Book Tokens will be presented as prizes. 

A selection of the finest entries will feature in an exhibition in Longford Library. 

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Gerry Hagan said, "Children possess an innate curiosity about their surroundings that often reveal hidden gems which adults might overlook. This competition not only develops creative skills but encourages families to explore together, strenghtening connections between young people and the landscape that shapes their identity. Every photograph tells a story, and we can't wait to discover what stories our young photographers will share."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "This competition offers young people a wonderful opportunity to see their county through fresh eyes. Photography teaches children to notice the extraordinary in the ordinary - whether it's a sunrise on the River Shannon or the architectural details of our market towns. We're excited to see Longford through the perspective of our youngest residents."

The competition forms part of the council's broader commitment to engaging young people with their local heritage and environment whilst developing creative skills. 

Children aged 6-13 years are invited to enter the Explore Longford Young Photographer's Competition by emailing their entry to photocompetition@longfordcoco.ie. 

Strictly one photograph entry per child.