rooted in the west
2026 photo contest
Share your story. Showcase life on the land.
From early mornings on the ranch to meals around the fire, the New Mexico Beef Council invites you to capture the moments that define life in the West.
View Terms and Conditions
about the campaign
More than a photo contest
Rooted in the West is a celebration of the people, places, and traditions that shape our agricultural way of life.
This campaign goes beyond a single moment—it’s about telling the stories behind the work, the heritage, and the connection to the land.
Selected entries will be featured across digital, print, and social media throughout the year.
how you can enter
Every photo tells a different part of the story. Whether it’s the people, the work, the food, or the land—we want to see what Rooted in the West looks like through your lens.
Not sure where your photo fits? Don’t worry—just choose the closest category and we’ll take care of the rest.
People of the Land
The heart behind the work. Capture the people who make it all happen—ranchers, families, kids growing up in agriculture, and the everyday moments that define this way of life.
Examples: branding days, feeding cattle, family on the ranch, generational moments
On the Land
Life with livestock. Show us the animals and the connection to them—cattle, working dogs, horses, and the rhythms of life on the land.
Examples: calving season, cattle in pasture, close-up moments, working scenes
From the Fire
Food, tradition, and flavor. From ranch meals to backyard grills, capture how beef brings people together.
Examples: cooking over an open flame, cast iron meals, family dinners, grilling moments
Wide Open Spaces
The land that shapes it all. Highlight the landscapes that define the West—rugged, beautiful, and ever-changing.
Examples: sunrise over pasture, mountain backdrops, open land, changing seasons
WHO CAN ENTER
Whether you're a rancher, photographer, or simply someone who appreciates life in the West, we invite you to participate.
Skill Levels:
Amateur
Professional
RECOGNITION & PRIZES
Recognition That Goes Beyond the Contest
Grand Prize: Your Story on Display
One grand prize winner from will have their photo featured on a billboard, showcasing their story to thousands across their home state.
Category Winners: Featured & Celebrated
Winners from each category (Amateur and Professional) will be: Featured across NMBC social media channels Highlighted as part of the Rooted in the West storytelling series Gifted exclusive Beef Council merchandise
Ongoing Features: Your Story Continues
Selected entries won’t just be recognized—they’ll be shared.
Throughout the year, photos and stories from this campaign will be featured across social media, websites, and marketing campaigns—bringing real stories from real people to the forefront of the beef community.
Select participants may also be contacted for additional storytelling opportunities, including featured posts, interviews, or video content.
KEY DATES
Important Dates
Launch: April 13, 2026
Submission Deadline: May 18, 2026
Finalist Voting: Late May
Winners Announced: Early June
HOW TO ENTER
It’s Simple to Participate
- Submit your photo using the entry form
- Tell us the story behind your image
- Select your category and skill level
- Agree to the terms and submit
Submit Your Entry
GET FEATURED
Want to see your photo featured during the contest? Share your submission on social media and tag us for a chance to be highlighted throughout the campaign.
RULES & GUIDELINES
Official Guidelines
Entries must be original work
Participants must have permission for all individuals shown
Multiple entries allowed
Content should reflect agriculture, ranching, or western lifestyle
Submitted content may be used in marketing materials
SUBMISSION FORM
Ready to share your story? Complete the form to enter.
Every photo has a story. Every story helps tell the bigger picture of life in the West. We can’t wait to see yours.