10 Years in Review: O.A.T.’s Photo Contest Grand Prize Winners

The photographs we capture during our travels have the power to rekindle cherished memories and inspire others to embark on their own adventures. Your best shots could also earn you prizes when you enter O.A.T.'s annual Traveler Photo Contest—the grand prize winner receives a FREE adventure, and winners in four categories each receive a $500 credit.

See this year's winners, full contest rules, and upload instructions here, and see below to get inspired by our past Grand Prize winners.

2023

Photo taken by Ann Schneider, 14-time traveler from Gurnee, IL | Heart of India

Comments from the judges: The photographer managed to perfectly capture an in-between moment that translates into an authentic glimpse of local life. You feel the sense of implied movement between the subjects and the environment. The beautifully exposed light adds warmth and complementary tones to the photo, bringing out details in both the women and the sun-kissed wheat.

2022

Photo taken by Christopher Tuite, first-time traveler from Hayward, CA | Kenya & Tanzania Safari: Masai Mara to the Serengeti

Comments from the judges: Photos of the Maasai people are very popular, yet this image shows us a unique perspective of the subject. Its thoughtful composition and use of depth of field draws you right into the scene, making the viewer feel as if they, too, are a part of this authentic slice of daily life. The beautiful light and vibrant colors evoke joyful emotions as well.

2021

Photo taken by Steven dos Remedios, 32-time traveler from Oakland, CA | Antarctica’s White Wilderness

Comments from the judges: At first glance, it almost looks like you are seeing icy terrain from above, but in reality, it’s a grandiose glacier and its reflection on placid waters. We love the photo’s interesting textural quality and how the composition makes the viewer want to know more.

2019

Photo taken by Darius Larsen, 44-time traveler from Big Sky, MT | Machu Picchu & the Galápagos

Comments from the judges: This photo encapsulates O.A.T.’s mission of going off the beaten path and getting to know locals in their everyday life. We love the use of black and white as it enhances the moment as well as the use of triangles in the framing and the photograph’s sense of movement.

2018

Photo taken by Steven dos Remedios, 32-time traveler from Oakland, CA | Morocco Sahara Odyssey

Comments from the judges: The photographer captured a natural moment in action, and the colors and textures are striking. We loved the expressions on the subjects’ faces, and we want to know what they are chatting about.

2017

Photo taken by Anne Landon, 11-time traveler from Westlake Village, CA | Japan’s Cultural Treasures

Comments from the judges: The photographer has discovered a unique perspective and scene in the garden that most people would miss. The beautiful colors and simple framing using the trees lead the eye around the image, drawing attention to the man.

2016

Photo taken by Jamie Stamey, 27-time traveler from Sherrils Ford, NC | China’s Imperial Cities, Natural Splendor & Modern Marvels

Comments from the judges: The dramatic lighting in this photo captures the actor’s intensity in preparation for the opera. With little background detail, the powerful composition draws the viewer directly to his expression.

2015

Photo taken by Howard Jennings, 14-time traveler from Cadyville, New York | Safari Serengeti: Tanzania Lodge & Tented Safari

Comments from the judges: This image has an incredible impact as you make a special connection with the zebra—he is looking right at you. The photo’s composition draws you right to the zebra. Although this photo shows a busy and chaotic scene, there is still a calmness in how the photographer captured it.

2014

Photo taken by Lloyd Beard, 6-time traveler from Birmingham, Alabama | Ultimate Africa: Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe Safari

Comments from the judges: This photo is absolutely breathtaking, and we love how it's framed—the photographer considered the entire scene. Its colors are fantastic, and there's just enough detail that you can pick out from the shadows—from the white of the elephants' tusks, to the tree branches emerging in the background. We're also very impressed with this photo's quality considering the challenging conditions of the dust and the glare of the sun—and speaking of which, that sunspot adds value and a bit of "pop" to the image.

See why Japan has provided inspiration for many a Photo Contest winner during Japan’s Cultural Treasures.