Young shutterbugs across Illinois have a new opportunity to show off their skills as State Treasurer Michael Frerichs announces the 2026 Cream of the Crop Photography Contest. Aimed at students aged 8 to 18, the contest celebrates Illinois agriculture through the lens of its youth. Winners will not only gain statewide recognition but also receive Bright Start college scholarships, with awards ranging from $250 to $1,000. Budding photographers are encouraged to capture the essence of rural life, with their entries due by June 12, 2026. Winning entries will be featured in Ag Invest materials and the next Cream of the Crop calendar, with additional recognition at the 2026 Illinois State Fair. Full contest details can be found at the State Treasurer’s website.
“I enjoy hosting this contest each year because it inspires students to go out and explore the beauty of Illinois agriculture while also displaying their creative talents,” Frerichs said. “Illinois is home to skilled and dedicated farmers, millions of acres of fertile farmland, and a diverse range of products, all of which make us a leader in the agricultural industry.”